Sometimes I get an idea for a jewelry design and just sit down and make it. I love those times!
But sometimes I get stuck at the very beginning. When that happens, I pull out a pint of Ben & Jerry's.
Okay, not really. But I sometimes I'm tempted. Mmmmmm . . . Triple Carmel Chunk!
One Pendant, Four Ways
This art bead by Tracee Dock is a great example of a piece that has me stumped at the very beginning stage. I've had it for at least a year, probably two or three. I take it out every spring, thinking that this will be the year I use it. I just can't decide out how best to hang it. I know that once I figure out that, then the rest of the design will come quickly. I thought it might be fun to document my process for a "stubborn" design.
1. Copper Jump Ring
Jump rings are the simplest solution and the copper color seems to be
a good match for the pendant. But the jump ring doesn't seem substantial enough for this heavy pendant.
2. Purchased Silver Bail
because it's so easy. I like this more than I thought I would. I can't use this exact bail because the hook isn't large enough for this thick pendant. But maybe I could buy a new one that is the right size.
3. Handcrafted Pearl Bail
I used 4mm pearls on fishing wire to create a bail. I like this,
although maybe the pearls are too fussy? I'd like to try this with 4mm copper rounds.
4. Knotted Brown Ribbon
what kind of beads would fit on this ribbon? Of course, I could just
tie the cord in a knot and wear it right away. Given how long I've had this bead in my stash, that sounds very appealing!
Just the Beginning
These aren't the only possibilities. But even with just four bail choices, you can see the diversity of a single pendant. The pearl bail, for example, would lead to a much more elegant, Easter Sunday type of necklace, while the knotted ribbon version would look cute with a T-shirt.
Which solution do you like best? How much "trial and error" do you go through in a design?