[ earrings made with two long shells and random pearls and beads. ]
I’m a bit nautical-crazy lately, it would seem. Between the rope belt I made*, the seahorse necklace procured at Target, and the seashell jewelry I’ve been working on, I dare say that all things ocean-related have become a bit of a preoccupation! The jewelry making started after we visited the beach while my sister was visiting. We were actually hunting for shark’s teeth, but I’m rubbish at that, so I stared gathering shells instead! I found some really gorgeous specimens–far better and more delicate than anything I ever found on the Mid Atlantic beaches.
So far I’ve made a necklace and set of earrings, using just bits and pieces that I had lying around (beads from old necklaces, chain from thrifted pieces). As with most of my jewelry making projects, I referred to my favorite book on the subject: Bead Simple. Without that book I would have never figured out how to make jewelry properly! I think I really need to get some more beads to add to my stash though; I have been using these pearls for ages, and I’m getting kind of tired of 75% of my self-made jewelry having pearls. lol. Maybe I can find some neat necklaces to take apart at the thrift store? Hmm…
[ a necklace with a bit of a surprise! isn't the shell beautiful? I've never seen anything quite this pretty on the beach before! ]
Some tips on making jewelry with shells that I picked up along the way… Although most recommend using a Dremel tool to drill holes (and this would be useful for thicker shells), I used a bead reamer (found at JoAnns), which worked perfectly. For those not familiar with it (I had no idea what it was beforehand!), it’s an awl-like tool that has a rough point used to smooth the inside of beads. With a little gentle pressure, I found it worked in a pinch. I also did a little research and it seems that spray finish works great for keeping the shells nice and shiny and protecting them. I still haven’t done this with mine, but need to so they don’t discolor (or break as easily, I suspect).
*Thank you everyone so much for the feedback on the rope belt I’ve been posting about! I’m really tickled you all liked it. I would like to do a tutorial on how I made it, as it’s pretty simple and requires few tools (plus I want to remake it anyway). So I’m adding that to my Tutorials to Write list, and hopefully it won’t be too long!
Ohh these are gorgeous! I’m so jealous that you find such pretty shells on your beaches, hehe. It’s such a good idea to buy cheap necklaces from thift stores for the beads, as buying beads in craft shops is crazily expensive (in the UK, it is anyway).
I love what you made. So creative and so much fun.
You are right about the shells being prettier. I have also been wanting to dabble in some jewelry making lately. (However, since you left you’ve taken all your tools, so I will be reduced to buying my own set.) That book would be helpful, also. (hint, hint – gift idea)
Love,
Mom
Oh, these are just gorgeous! I think you used the word yourself – they are just so delicate and lovely!
Truly, the shell is gorgeous! What talent you have!!!
I look forward to such a tutorial!!!
I miss your tutorials!!!
You are fabulous, as always!
I love the jewels! They are so wonderfully summery and seashore feeling. Thank you for the book recommendation as well. I’ve tried my hand at a few handmade pieces and have never felt quite right about them.
Hey Casey! I am a regular reader but don’t really post comments much. However, I have loads of beads and I can definitely send a fun assortment your way if you want some to play with. I have all types! If you would like some beads let me know, I don’t have as much time as I think I do for hobbies so it would be great to see some get some use! Also, I AM DYING FOR THAT BELT TUTORIAL! I loved it
Those are lovely! The pearls are the perfect with the sea shells.
looks so hard to make but they are soooo pretty!!
how nice!