Rings & Things Blogger challenge - Summer Breeze

I have been chomping at the bit to get to this necklace. I knew what I had to do as soon as I saw the Designer bead packet with this months blogger challenge from Rings & Things.

Now find the time -

I didn't think it would take as long as it did to complete, over 5 hours. This was done in several 1 hour or 45 minute sittings as I found time to commit to it. I will admit as I got to the last strand, I felt a bit like this guy -



Now it is done and I am thrilled - *sound of scratching record* well almost. This morning in the shower it hit me (always hits me in the shower, I don't know why) how I can make the charms better. A better way to attach them so they have a bit more swinging freedom. But I'll save that for another day :)

Constructing the necklace -

Designer packet


Cut 10 pieces of hemp ranging between 18 and 21 inches. Knot randomly on each strand the 6/0 seed beads from the Designer Packet. I string the beads ahead of time on the hemp and knot as I go



The knotted beads will serve as the 'bail' for the charms. Cut a wire piece and 'crimp' the end by folding the very end back onto itself and giving it a good mash with your needle nosed pliers




When you make the crimp, slide one of the tiny seed beads from the seperate container onto the wire to be used as a 'stopper' for the bead.



Add your bead - there are so many to choose from!- and by making a wire wrapped loop, you will attach the 'charm' to the bead.



One down - TONS TO GO!



Now all 10 strands are finished. You need to attach them to a jump ring. Attaching all 10 strands to one ring is a big order. I broke it down into 2 strands per ring. This also allows you to wear as many or as few of the strands as you want.



Double them back onto themselves bout an inch and wrap with wire to secure






Pinch the ends to keep them flush and not to scratch the wearer, and do the same to the coil. Give it a slight mash with your needle nosed pliers to help with the grip.



Trim the ends flush with the coil



When you are finished you will have five groups of two. Put the ends onto a larger ring and add half your toggle. Repeat with the other side.



And here she is kids - Summer Breeze (I had that song stuck in my head the whole time I was making it)









And naturally I had to take it out for a test drive!






Tomorrow stop by and see my wire wrapped silver connector as I continue on with this months Rings & Things blogger challenge!!