Description
I created my Dainty Disc necklace for a U3A workshop for beginners. I had been asked to design some jewellery. This project can be made as a necklace or bracelet. It uses materials that are widely available. You will also learn skills that are simple, but really important if you want to make jewellery.
You can also put your colour skills to the test. There are loads of gorgeous disc beads on the market. So, you can pick something really pretty, then choose other materials to complement the discs.
Materials for the Dainty Disc Necklace
You should start by choosing your disc beads. These are the focal point for the Dainty Disc necklace design. So, think about colour. I found flat discs as these create a daintier look. However, you can use chunkier disc beads if you prefer. You want something that is about 1.5cm in diameter. Alternatively, you could replace the discs with round beads.
I then used pearls and 3mm spacer beads to add interest to the design. You can use any type of 4mm bead, so perhaps try firepolish or crystal beads. The 3mm spacer beads are equivalent in size to a size 6 seed bead, but you could go down to a size 8 if you wish. All these beads are readily available in craft shops as well as bead shops.
You will then need some eye pins, jump rings (or split rings) and a clasp. In terms of tools, the Dainty Disc Necklace uses just basic wire cutters and round nose pliers.
Experience and Techniques
You do not need any previous experience for this project. The Dainty Disc Necklace uses a basic technique for making wire loops. You will also learn how to work with jump rings. These are two key skills for jewellery making.
So, once you have mastered these techniques, you can make so many different pieces of jewellery. These include bracelets and earrings as well.
This project will help you gain confidence with the techniques. So, you are then free to go on and experiment with picking beads and designing your own jewellery.
