(back to calendar)         (back to Gallery of Projects)

Wishbone Earrings 

(registration instructions below)

Increase your command of wire while you learn to craft these great wishbone earrings! This design offers a wide variety of basics. Whether you are just learning these skills or reviewing them, you will be sure to leave class with more confidence in working with wire.  We will create all three of the components from sterling wire:  the forged head pin, the ear wires, and the wishbone frame.  I will explain the reasons for using the various gauges of wire and how that relates to choosing materials for other wire projects.  This is a rare opportunity to experience the differences in the working properties of the wires in succession.

Discipline:  Wire-working

Working with precious/semi-precious wire to form jewelry components.

Level:  Intermediate (**)

This project is considered intermediate because we are forming mirror images that match.  Great project for gaining knowledge about wire guage/use.

Where?

Desert Jewel Studio, 26839 N 44th St, Cave Creek, AZ 85331. You will receive directions upon registering for class.

When?

This class is not on the schedule at this time.  If you are interested in taking it, e-mail jen@jewelryclasseswithjen.com with your interest and availability.

How do I sign up?

Class will be $50/person. E-mail jen@jewelryclasseswithjen.com or call Jen at (480)635-2402 to register any time from noon to 10pm.

What will I need to bring to class?

  • Sterling Silver wire as follows (or purchase a kit in class for $7):

5.5″ of 20g dead soft wire

3″ of 18g dead soft wire

6.5″ of 16g dead soft wire

(2) 6mm round beads + 4mm sterling beads that all fit snugly on 18g wire

  • Jewelry grade file(s)
  • Pinvise with the following cup burs 2.1mm, 1.7mm, and 1.3mm (optional)
  • Bur life or other lubricant
  • Flush cutters
  • Ruler
  • Flat-nose pliers
  • Chain-nose jewelry pliers
  • Stepped pliers (Beadsmith # PL48) –Required!  Please let me know if you have trouble getting these as I can have some available for purchase in class.
  • Wrap n’ tap pliers (Beadsmith # PL46 or Eurotool equivalent – 13mm,16mm,20mm steps or a 1/2 inch diameter hard dowel) –Required!  Please let me know if you have trouble getting these as I can have some available for purchase in class.
  • Steel block or anvil
  • Embossing hammer or ball-pein hammer with no sharp edges on the flatter side
  • Forming hammer
  • Sharpie marker (ultra fine tip)
  • Sanding sponges/Steel wool (#00)/Polishing cloth (also available for sale at class)
  • 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 majority of the above items are available locally at C&D Silver, SJ Jewelry Supply, Lonnie’s Jewelry Supply or other on-line jewelry supply sources. If you have any difficulty or questions about obtaining any of these items, please contact Jen to inquire about your options.