“Jenuine” Toggle Focal from Sheet

Make your clasp the feature!  What makes my toggle bars special?  They lay flat!  In this instruction, I not only show you how to create my unique toggle bars, but I also offer patterns that utilize ratios that “work”.  You can use these focal clasps with a wide array of necklace styles from large scale beads, to leather, to multi-strands, or even dress up some simple commercial chain as I have pictured here.  Once you see how the ratios work, you can utilize my formulas to create your own designs.  Once you create the essence of the toggle, you can always choose to embellish it with decrative bits or add some stones.  The lesson here is focused on controlling the position of the toggle bar and the requirements for the clasp to drape properly.

 

• 2.5″ x 1.5″ piece of 20ga sterling silver sheet
• 1.25″ length of 16ga dead soft round sterling silver wire

MCME Reference: ( The instructions will include my measurements, but if you want to customize the patterns for your own tools…)

• Measuring tool for teardrop rollback loop – 16ga/ bail pliers – small side
• Measuring tool for spacers – 1/4″

Tools:

• Flush cutter
• File(s) – half-round preferred
• Embossing hammer (or other texture hammer)
• Steel block with silencing pad
• jeweler’s saw frame, bench pin,  and 3/o blades
• Bail-making pliers (Beadsmith #PL42)
• Chain-nose pliers
• Flat pliers
• Sharpie marker (ultra fine tip)
• pin vise fitted with: twin cut cup bur for 16ga wire
• silicone lubricant
• 3M sanding sponges/ slurry coated polishing cloths

• Magnifying glasses– most people don’t think they need them until they are faced with seeing the detail of jewelry close-up.
• Covered water or other refreshing beverage
• Snacks are always welcome as well. 🙂

The following tools will be supplied in class for your use:

• #55 and #52 drill bits
• 2.5mm round bur
• Spring loaded center punch
• Flex shaft or drill press
• Basic soldering set-up
• medium silver solder
• squares of copper sheet or other heat sinks
• Pepe disk punch
• Utility hammer
• Plastic forming hammer