Inspired by our borderline obsession with Pinterest, we have just launched a new series called Chic Finds. Every month we’ll feature a new find. And opening our series is Purplecraze4u’s Jewelry Designs. Started by our very own contributor, Avni Patankar, Purplecraze4u’s Jewelry Designs has beautiful, unique pieces that are completely handmade by Patankar herself.
Let’s take a look at what Patankar has to say about Purplecraze4u’s Jewelry Designs
The Story Behind Purplecraze4u’s Jewelry Designs:
One day I randomly came across a box of beads and started playing with them. Something in those beads made me want to try to do more with them. I then found myself at Michaels where I took a class to learn mainly about how to put a clasp on jewelry. But it wasn’t long until I tried to learn more about jewelry making. Soon I was replicating jewelry pieces I’d seen from watching tutorials and guides. Since making my trip to Michaels that first time, I’ve driven down to the fashion district in downtown Los Angeles to find unique pieces for my jewelry. Looking back, these these pieces were initially made as gifts for people but now I’ve branched out to selling them. And that’s how Purplecraze4u’s Jewelry Designs was born.
Here are some essential tools and supplies I suggest every beginning jewelry maker needs to design their own jewelry.
- Round nose pliers
- Cutters
- scissors
- crimper
- beading board
- beading wire
- beads
- silver/gold accent beads
- clasps toggle/ lobster etc
- crimping beads
- eye/pin hook
- fishhook earring
You can find most of these tools at your local crafts store like Michaels, Jo-Ann, or even online stores like firemountaingems.com. For those in the southern CA area, the LA fashion district is worth the drive to check out the all the bead stores. Not only will they usually be cheaper then most other places, they’ll also boast several unique finds.
A Sneak Peek
The jewelry set shown here is made from expensive semi-precious stones.
Normally a color scheme is picked before I begin, but in this particular set, I went on my imagination. When the color scheme is decided on, I chose my center piece. It can be anywhere from a colored gem to a silver accent piece, it’s all intuitive. I then place this on my beading board this way it helps me figure out the size and lay out my designs. Next I make my design using the color breads i have chosen along with silver accents–making each side of the center piece the exact same design. Once I have reached my desired length which is about 18-20 inches ( 9-10 inches on either side) I will then start to string my pieces on beading wire and finish it off using crimping beads and a clasp.
For more information on this particular set or other jewelry, head over to Purplecraze4u’s Jewelry Designs.
