by Kathy Cano Murillo - May. 17, 2003 04:30 PM
The Arizona Republic
I'm a sucker for pictures. I love vintage postcards, obscure ads, romantic comics, minibooks, notecards, postage stamps, wrapping paper, postcards, stickers . . . . It has become so bad that I can't pass a stationery shop or bookstore without stopping to scope out the goods in fear of missing out on some great images.

This nifty necklace project is one way I've found to make use of my ever-growing collection. It's as easy as taking two microscope slides and making a "picture sandwich." There are oodles of alternatives for using these slides, and these instructions are a great place to start. Of course, always be careful whenever you use glass in craft projects. Microscope slides are available at local hobby stores (not craft shops), and the foil tape is sold at home improvement stores.


Microscope slide necklaces


Supplies
2 microscope slides
2 pictures, phrases, clippings, ribbon or other flat items
Scissors
industrial strength glue
Foil or copper tape
Eye pins, 1 1/2 inches long each
Assorted beads
Needle nose pliers
Jump ring
Necklace cording

Directions: Work on a flat surface free of dust. Use the slide as a template to trim your two pictures. Take one picture and flip it over. Add a small drop of glue in the center of the back side. Lay one eye pin pointing up so the eyelet extends above the picture. Repeat the process for the bottom. Take the other picture and press the two backsides together, smooth firmly with fingers to ensure all the sides are sealed. Set aside until glue is dry.

Cut two pieces of foil tape measuring 3 inches by one-quarter inch, and two measuring 1 inch by one-quarter inch. Create a "sandwich" by placing your image in between the two slides. Carefully apply the foil tape to one side of the glass and then fold it over to cover the other side. Rub your finger over the tape to remove any wrinkles.

Continue the process until the all of the edges are evenly trimmed with the foil tape. Repeat process to make a double layer for extra hold and to pad the corners.

Thread beads onto the remaining eye pins and attach them to the slide's bottom eyelet with the pliers.

Add a jump ring to the top eyelet and tie on the necklace cording.



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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: jewelry, paper, wearable

by Kathy Cano-Murillo - Sept. 14, 2002 12:00 AM
The Arizona Republic

Bernie Lawitz can always tell when someone enters his store for the first time.

“There's always that of look of confusion,” he says.

Then they say, “Oh my God.”

The name of his outlet — Beads Galore — explains why. The multiroom warehouse houses has thousands of beautiful baubles that are ready to be strung, threaded, crimped and woven. Although the shop has been an artistic mainstay in Tempe for more than 16 years, beading has only recently emerged as a popular mainstream activity. It's not just artists who are designing wearable art nowadays, it's also the part-time crafter.

“I'm not at all intimidated at the thought of designing my own accessories,” says 30-year-old Minnie Torres-Andrade, a full time marketing consultant. “I always steal ideas from things I see in stores. I'll think, ‘That looks so simple. I bet I can make my own for a lot less money in the exact colors I want.' Especially if I have an outfit and I want something to go with it that is unique and different.”

Lawitz welcomes those fresh faces that cross his threshold day after day. Many novices to Lawitz's store find their initial introduction overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. A safe — and fashionable — place to start is with elasticized bead bracelets that are a hot item in boutiques and department stores.

The first step is to decide on a color scheme and the number of bracelets you'd like, and then survey the goods before making a selection. Lawitz suggests a budget of approximately $30. He adds that those who feel they are creatively impaired should just relax and enjoy the process.

“Buying enough materials to make six bracelets equals the cost of buying one from someplace else,” he says. “It's silly to buy a pre-made bracelet. If you can dress yourself in the morning and choose the right colors, you should be able to string a bracelet the same way. There is no right and wrong.”

Phoenix artist Jennifer Meyers is a shining example of his mantra.

Her passion for beading began 10 years ago when she needed a special accessory to match an outfit. Nothing at the store appealed to her, so she took matters into her own hands (literally). The experience led to a new endeavor future. She now works full time producing beaded jewelry that she sells on the Internet and at local jewelry shows. Her work is so appealing that she often sells pieces she's wearing. right off her arms.

“I was at my own baby shower, and I had my beaded bracelets on, and the women were like, ‘Oh where did you get that?'” she says with a laugh. “I ended up selling them off my arms at my own shower.

“I also once sold earrings from my ears to a cashier at the supermarket. Of course, I cleaned them for her first.”

The 32-year-old considers beading a mess-free method of self-expression. It takes several cases to hold her materials, which are sorted according to size, shape and color. In addition, she has portable boxes that allow her to work while when she is away from home.

“It's so easy to get addicted to all the supplies,” she says with a tone of caution. “You start amassing all this stuff before you can even use it all. It can get expensive. I say, try to set limits when you go into a supply store. Tell yourself you are only going to spend ‘X' amount of dollars. Remind yourself that you can always go in again.”

Elastic bauble bracelets

Supplies:
1 package of Stretch Magic elastic cording
Assorted beads
Small jump rings
Assorted charms
Scissors
Needle-nose pliers

Directions: Use the needle-nose pliers to attach the charms to the small jump rings. Measure your wrist, cut a piece of the elastic two inches longer, and tie a knot at one end. Begin to string the beads in your desired pattern, interspersing the charms as you go. When you reach the desired length, tightly tie both ends of the elastic together and trim excess.

Variations: For a more refined-looking bracelet, use wire, thread or memory wire and secure with crimps and clasps.


***
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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: beads, jewelry, wearable art

Buy a watchface, attach some chain, and clasps. Use needlenose pliers to attach small jump rings, and head pins for the beads and charms.

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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: jewelry

I scored some gorgeous coasters on eBay, and they were direct from Spain. I love the flamenco dancers on them! I picked up on the style to embellish this jewelry box. This lovely project is from my book: The Crafty Chica Collection!

Supplies:
1 large wood jewelry box
1 large wood plaque
1 flamenco girl coaster (eBay!)
Paint, mini mirrors, black lace
Hot glue gun

Paint the whole thing, let dry. Glue the coaster to the plaque, and then glue it in the center of the box. Glue the mini-mirrors in the corners. Paint accents all over, and then glue on the lace. Add wood balls for the feet.



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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: jewelry, Latin-inspired, multi-culti

NOTE: You’ve probably seen this idea before, but I swear it is one I did back in 2002. I came across it recently and thought I’d repost! Enjoy!

For the busy gal on the go, fishing for earrings from the bottom of a purse is a common activity. So is finding them next to the telephone, on top of coffee tables and even in the car’s glove compartment. Until we are able to keep them on our ears for eight hours at a time, a little assistance would be appreciated.
These dainty jewelry hangers will do the trick as a temporary and unforgettable resting spot. Begin by picking up a few open-back frames at a craft or second-hand store. Decorate them, attach some screen, a ribbon for hanging and then put one at each of the spots where you tend to leave your jewelry, like a bulletin board at work. Use a larger more ornate frame to hold your whole collection on a vanity dresser.

Supplies:
1 open-back picture frame (3 1/2 inches by 5 inches or 4 inches by 6 inches).
Wire mesh or screen.
Hot glue gun and glue sticks.
2 eyehole screws.
2 pieces of silk ribbon (each 12 inches long).
Optional: Acrylic paints, fabric, brushes, picture for background.

Directions: Paint and embellish the frame as desired. Measure and cut a piece of screen to fit inside the frame. Adhere it to the inner borders with hot glue. Attach the eyehole screws to the top of the frame. Thread the ribbon through the hole and gather the two ends at the top. Repeat for the other eyehole. Tie off the ribbon at the top for hanging. If you would like a decorative jewelry hanger only for fishhook earrings, glue a colorful picture to the back of the frame so it will show through the screen. For all types of earrings, leave the back open for easy use.
VARIATIONS: Use a standing frame to use on a tabletop or create your own frame from basswood. For a portable version, line one side of a small box with screen so it can be closed.


***
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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: jewelry, paper

Last spring, my friend Susan Beal invited me to contribute a project to her new book, Bead Simple.

At first I was way nervous because Susan's designs are so crisp, clean, and gorgeous - and well, I always tend to go overboard. i can't help it, I get so excited that I can't stop myself. Every time I think I'm done with a design, I add three or four more elements. Sometimes Patrick will walk over to me at my work table, hold my hands and say: "Mujer, step away for a few minutes before you add that..."

I happily accepted Susan's offer! It also happened to be right around the time that I was going to New York City to teach a class, so I used my trip wisely and scoured the city for cool beads and charms. I knew I wanted to make a "love charm" that had lots of dangling doo-dads and such.

This is what I came up with!



Love is multi-layered and complex. So this wild and whimsical charm has everything you need to get lucky in the romance department: lots of hearts, milagros, and a few other surprises. You can show it off by wearing it as a necklace, a belt charm, or even a car ornament. Believe me - you will get noticed!

Congrats to Susan for a job well done on her book, I've seen it everywhere, everyone is raving about it and I am so proud to be on page 200!!! Thanks, Susan!

BTW: If you would like the directions and resources for this project, you will have to buy the book! The more that people buy books, the more we will have a lot to choose from. Eh, does that make sense? You know what I mean! Support your book authors :-)


CLICK ON PHOTO TO ORDER YOUR COPY!

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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: beads, jewelry, Valentine's Day

When we were on the cruise, one of our crafters, Julie, broke out with a gallon-sized Ziplock bag of mini Mexican basket rings. She bought them at Goodwill and didn't know what to do with them She offered them to the group and none of us knew what to do with them either.



On the last day, I took one and slipped it on my finger as a ring. Next I added yarn. "Put crystals on!" someone chimed...so I did. And I ended up up with a super fly-looking finger flasher.

Ann followed my lead and made a basket ring too. She used holographic sequined trim for hers (que fancy!). It just goes to show that we were drunk on crafting. You know when you finish your drink and sip the straw once more, hoping to eek out that last little bit of fun? Well, it was like that for us, except with craft supplies. We had finished our projects, so we scoured the room and made stuff out of the leftovers.

Here are our finished rings!



And here are Ann's pictures from the cruise!


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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: jewelry, recycled

This is a bracelet I made using washers, pictures, bola tie slides and jump rings. A wonderful chica named Mona turned me on to the idea a long time ago, except she used pictures of typewriter keys. Very easy, and it is a great project for kids! My daughter, Maya, even demoed it on the DIY Network, and it is featured in one of my Crafty Diva books!




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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: jewelry, recycled, wearable art

Just another idea for those tiny fabric scraps. Who in the world could toss out a 1" square piece of animal print fabric?

Supplies:

2 pieces of fabric, a little over an inch.
Small image printed on fabric paper, or any other kind of soft image.
Sewing machine, or hand needle & thread.
Acrylic paint, liner brush and micro glitter.
A pinch of batting.
Metal glue.
Flat ring base.

Directions: Sew the image to the front of one of the pieces fo fabric. Sew the two pieces of fabric like a little pillow (inside out on three sides). Turn it right side out, add the pinch of batting, and sew up the open side. Glue it to the ring base. When it is dry, hold it steady in your hand and use the liner brush to paint on a border. Sprinkle on the micro glitter while the the paint is still wet.

This is just how I made it, but you can take it from there and add whatever else you want! Trims, charms, etc... I love using fabric for unconventional means, and this idea is perfect for that.

And if you ever get sleepy, you can just put your head on your ring! Kinda, sorta...


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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: jewelry, recycled, sewing, wearable art

Today's project is all about making the most of the odds and ends in your art room. Once I cleaned out all my extras, I realized that I could put them all together to make something functional! I posted a picture earlier and got a few emails about it, so I thought I'd share the crafty recipe for it!

First let me say that here in Phoenix, we have this magnificent craft warehouse called Diane Ribbon and Notions. It's been around for more than sixty years and is owned by the original family! You walk in there and it is a wall-to-wall paradise of cardboard boxes stacked from the floor to the ceiling. All superfly crafting treasures! And because they have been around so long, you can find really wild treats from the 70s and 80s.

So anyway, last time I was there I picked up some blank dog tags. I glued down scraps of paper on them and then a picture, and then painted on accents, added micro stars, and glitter. Yes, even in the tiny space of a dog tag, you can cram in all those elements! I covered each one in resin.

And then I took some mini-bottles, filled them with glitter, attached a chain, added word beads and charms and some old-fashioned key rings. Now that I look at the picture, I think it would have been cool to add a bit of yarn too!

As far as the glitter in the little bottle...just think - you will have (contained) sparkle with you where ever you go! I actually glued the lid down. That way I can tell people "In case of emergency, break bottle of glitter!"

Supplies:

Keyring
Decorated dog tag, or another large picture charm of some sort.
2" of chain
mini-bottle filled with micro glitter (add a bit of glue inside the rim to hold it tight)
Eye pins
Beads
Needle nose pliers
Jump rings

Directions: Attach the dog tag. Attach the bottle to the chain, and add that to the keyring. Put the beads on the yee pin and use jump ring to attach!



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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: glitter, jewelry, wearable art

This is the season for magic, dreams and wishes. Everyone has a secret plan they hope will come to fruition some day. This little bracelet will help. The idea is to give the bracelet to someone and tell the person to wish upon the star and then tie the bracelet around the wrist or ankle. When the thread wears down and breaks, the star charm will be released into the universe and soon the recipient's wish will come true!

Supplies:

1 long piece of thread (about 24 inches)
1 star charm
1 piece of colorful card stock with the directions written on it
Small bracelet gift box
Craft paint

Directions: Paint and decorate the box and set aside to dry. Double the thread and slide on the charm. Leave the ends open so the person can tie it on. Place the bracelet in the box with the directions.

Tip: Instead of just one bracelet, give your friend two so they can pass one on as well. Better yet, give them several to use throughout the month.


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* All content/photos copyright, © Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com * for awesome crafty resources check out DuncanCrafts.com

Labels: empowerment crafts, holiday, jewelry

Collar your creativity for necklace

Kathy Cano-Murillo
Special for the Republic
Nov. 17, 2007 12:00 AM

Creating a necklace has never been easier, thanks to recent trends. The latest craze is mixing and matching contrasting chains, beads and papers to make a one-of-a-kind wearable statement.

Even easier, you can use an existing chain necklace and take it apart to make it your own.

Before you start, sketch out your design ideas to ensure you will have a cohesive look.

Paper and Chain Collage Necklace
Supplies
3 wood squares (1 inch each)
White craft glue
3 pieces of decorative paper (1 square inch each)
Silver paint pen
Dremel tool
Needle-nose pliers
12-inch medium chain
7 medium jump rings
6-inch chunky chain
1 multistrand connector
3 pieces of fine chain (1 inch each)
1 eye pin
1 bead
1 necklace clasp
Directions
1. Coat the wood pieces with a thin layer of glue and apply the paper. Draw a line around the edges with the silver paint pen. Using the Dremel tool, make two holes on each piece of wood so you can connect the wood pieces.

2. Using the needle-nose pliers, connect one of the wood squares to the medium chain with a jump ring. Add the other two squares in the same fashion, followed by the chunky chain.

Now add the connector, and the three strands of the fine chain. Thread a jump ring through all three strands of the fine chain and connect to the hole in the eye pin.

Add the bead and use the needle-nose pliers to bend the wire over onto another jump ring. Connect that to the medium chain. Decide how you want your necklace to hang, and then use the pliers to make a break in the desired chain and add the clasp.

Click here for printable directions.


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano-Murillo, 2007. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: collage/paper, jewelry, wearable art

A necklace to inspire sew-and-sew

Kathy Cano-Murillo
Special for The Arizona Republic
Sept. 22, 2007 12:00 AM

September is National Sewing Month, which means now is a good time to dust off your machine and give it a whirl.

Before you dismiss the idea, assuming you have to make a dress from scratch, think again. There are all kinds of easy projects that take minutes to complete.

Example: I love to stitch two decorative place mats together, and then add Fiberfill for an instant toss pillow. I'm also addicted to microsize designs.

Recently, while sorting through my fabric scraps, I became inspired to make little pillow jewelry pieces. These make adorable earrings and pendants, or you can sew them all together for a cool wrist cuff. I settled for this fabric necklace. You also can make these as appliques to sew onto clothing, quilt or fabric collage projects.

Even if you've never picked up a needle and thread, there is no reason to skip out on trying - especially with a place such as Sewin' Asylum (www.sewinasylum.com) at 8805 W. Union Hills Drive, Peoria.

Owner Erica Doyle provides a workshop environment where people can come in to finish, start or get help with a project. It's a great plan for those who are interested but who don't have access to a machine.

For other sewing ideas and inspirations, check out your local bookstore or cable-TV networks for books and shows.

For more information about National Sewing Month, visit www.sewing.org.

Supplies
Pinking shears
1 fabric image and background fabric for it (3 inches max)
4 pieces of fabric circles (1 1/2 inches round)
Fiberfill stuffing
Chopstick or pencil
Small hole puncher
6 small jump rings
Necklace chain
Needle-nose pliers
Necklace clasp

Directions
Using the pinking shears, line up the front and back fabric and cut out around the shape that you want as the main pendant.

Do the same for the circles. Sew each one around the edges, but leave an opening.

Pinch off a gumball-size piece of Fiberfill and roll it into a ball, use the chopstick or pencil to push it through the hole of the pendant and the circles.

Sew up the ends. Use the hole puncher to create holes on each side of the pieces, and insert jump rings. Connect to the necklace chain. Use the needle-nose pliers to shorten the chain as desired. Add the clasp.

Variations: Connect more pieces together to make a matching bracelet, or make single pieces for earrings. Instead of using necklace chain, sew the pieces together.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: fabric, jewelry, sewing, wearable art

Every time I'm cruising the aisles at the craft store, I can't help but stop and admire all the tiny scrapbook charms. Recently, I bought a handful - not for my scrapbooks, but for a Scrapbook Charm Necklace.

This project will fit any personality or body frame because you can adjust it to fit your style.

To give the necklace a more dimensional look, I used three textures of chains. Of course, you can always visit the jewelry section of the craft store to find other charms or, if you are like me, search through your jewelry box for long lost earring strays.

Thank you to Margot for sending me the pretty moon crystal!!!

CLICK HERE FOR PRINTABLE DIRECTIONS


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry

Bubble rings are taking over the universe! I can't go into a store without seeing some form of them. most of the time they are at least $10 buck a pop. all that for painting on the under side of plastic?

I went on a quest to make my own, but couldn't find a decent source. Most of the ones I found online were already painted or had things embedded in them. I did find some on eBay, but the blank singles were going for $5 bucks. That's too much! So, finally I found a source and it was right under my nose - from Tulip!


They have these addictive Fashion Art kits that come with FOUR of the rings, plus the paint and crystals. I ended up using my own acrylic paints and then sealed them with varnish underneath. To get fine lines and detail, I used the end of a head pin. I'm going back to Michaels to get my fourth batch some more because my daughter keeps taking them to make them for her friends!

Another idea is to use fabric underneath like these beautiful Kimono Rings. Just so you know, i tried decoupaging thin paper images, but they didn't work nice. you really need to stick with paint or something thin like sheer fabric or tissue paper. Imagine how much it would be to embellish this kind of acrylic ring?? you can even glue crystals on the ring blanks to look something like this.




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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry

(Sassy Valentine Charms, by Margot Potter)

With 2007 rolling along nicely, I've come to really appreciate my seventh year writing my craft column for The Arizona Republic and Gannett News Service. Can you believe this column runs in 50 papers every week around the country? I look at it like I have a serious job to do. To educate and entertain all of you about all the crafty personalities and offerings out there.

Every month, sometimes more than once a month, I'm going to feature Q & A's with creative people of all types. I just came from the Craft and Hobby Show and met many of them. One of my missions for this year is to inspire as many people as I can about crafting, hip Hispanic crafts, crafty careers, writing, book deals, manufacturing, promoting yourself and so forth. Granted, I won't be able to do it for you or hand out short cuts, but I will offer tips and tricks to get you rolling! I've found the most successful people are the ones who truly break a sweat (and smile the whole time) when it comes to getting their business off the ground.

What better way than to kick off this feature than with Mistress of the Bead(TM), Margot Potter? I know you've read about her here lots of times before, but seriously, girlfriend juggles several crafty gigs at once. I'm flippin' amazed. The picture above are some Sassy Valentine Charms from her recent book, The Impatient Beader Gets Inspired.

CLICK HERE TO READ THE STORY. THe directions only appeared in the print version of the article, but they are in her new book!

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: Interview, jewelry

The TV set is a crafter's best friend when it comes to those marathon painting or knitting sessions. You know the ones - when you absolutely must finish a project before you turn in for the night? I have a roster of shows that I watch for this reason. They serve as great background noise while I paint, sew, bead or draw. However, there's one weekly primetime event that I love so much, I ditch the craft room altogether. Every Thursday you'll find me lounging on the living room couch,100% devoted to Ugly Betty. Is it a crime that I secretly want that Guadalajara poncho? I know we're supposed to gawk at Betty's frumpy frocks, but I can't help but adore her necklace too — so much that I had to make my own version and share it with you.
First of all, credit for the original design goes to Jennifer Parrish of ParrishRelics.com. The Stoneham, Massachusetts jewelry designer made and supplied the faux pearl embellished “B” necklace for Ugly Betty star, America Ferrera . It is hand-sculpted, twice fired and finished with four different glazes. Parrish's It's replica of a piece worn by Anne Boleyn, Henry VIII's 2nd wife and mother of Elizabeth I. You can order your own for $172 from the online store, or give this crafty idea a try. Ugly Betty
airs at 7 p.m., Thursdays on ABC.

Ugly Betty inspired necklace
Supplies:
Cardstock, pencil, scissors
Craft knife
Polymer clay
Industrial strength craft glue
Acrylic craft paint in gold and black
Eye pins
Assorted beads
Soft Flex wire
Crimp beads
2 jump rings
Necklace clasp
Needle nose pliers

Directions: Cut a strand of wire long enough so you can double it to be at your desired length. At one end, holding two strands of the wire, feed on a crimp bead. Loop the wire ends through the crimp bead to make a loop at the end so you can attach a jump ring later. Use the needle nose pliers to flatten the crimp bead. Begin to add the beads on the double strand of
wire. When finished, close off the other end by repeating the crimping process. Add a jump ring at each end, and the clasp.
To make the initial, cut a piece of cardstock measuring 1-1/2-inch square. Draw out the letter in the square and cut out. Take gumball-sized piece of the clay and flatten it (about the thickness of a pancake). Place the cardstock template on it and use the craft knife to cut out the shape of the letter. Use your fingers to smooth the edges. Snip the eye pins to about 1/4 of an inch and insert them at the bottom of the letter. Add an eye pin at the top of the letter. If you have a letter that is “open” at the top (like a “K”), glue one on each side, or glue a jump ring to the back of the necklace later. Bake in oven according to package directions. Let cool. One at a time, remove the eye pins, add a drop of glue and insert back into each hole. Repeat for all the eye pins. Let dry. Paint the letter gold, let dry and lightly rub on black paint around the edges. Use your finger to rub in more gold, so it has an antique finish. Use more eye pins to add dangling beads to the eye pins
glued at the bottom of the letter. Add a jump ring to attach the letter to the strand of beads.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry

This morning my episode aired on DIY Jewelry Making with host Jackie Guerra. I taped i t in Burbank, CA two years ago and it finally aired - yay!
Safety Note: Keep the beads small and their quality high to prevent chipping or breaking. Pay close attention to the directions, making sure you tightly crimp off the wire and use a sturdy lobster claw clasp so it will not come apart. Test this by pulling it to make sure its secure. Make sure to measure your baby's wrist for correct sizing, and don't make it too tight or too loose. Also, don't attach any charms. Never leave a baby unattended while wearing the bracelet.


Here are the recipes for the projects.

Double Strand Baby Bracelet

Materials:

1 roll of soft flex .014 gauge wire
2 small 1mm crimp tubes
140 small 1mm pink glass seed beads
6 medium 2mm pearl beads
2 4mm split rings
1 lobster clasp
needle nose pliers
scissors

1. Cut two 8 inch strands of soft flex .014 gauge beading wire.

2. Take one strand, and then slide on a crimp tube one inch down.


Figure A

3. With the needle nose pliers, grasp the one inch end of the wire, and then fold it over to create a small loop. Feed the end through the crimp tube so there is a short tail sticking out the other side (figure A).

4. Crimp using needle nose pliers. Repeat for the second strand.

5. Open a split ring, and then slide on the two strands through the loops just created.

6. Slide on 10 small pink glass beads onto one strand, and then do the same for the other strands. Make sure the beads slide over the wire tail.

7. Slide on one medium pearl bead through both strands. Pull it so the beads are packed tight. Repeat this process six more times.

8. Close off each end by adding the crimp tubes, snipping the excess wire to one inch, and then feeding the ends through the tubes and through the holes of the beads on the strand. Crimp into place.

9. Attach the other split ring, followed by the lobster clasp.

Classy Crystal Chain Bracelet

Materials:

high quality chain without breaks in the links
10-12 small 1mm glass light pink seed beads
4-5 2mm Swarovski hot pink crystal beads
2 high quality 4 mm split rings
1 lobster claw clasp
wire nippers
needle nose pliers

1. Start at the end of the chain, and then count out four links. On the fourth link, use wire nippers to snip it off so the chain will be in two pieces.

2. Using needle nose pliers, carefully bend open the eyehole on the eye pin, and then hook it on the chain that has three links. Close it shut tightly with the pliers so the chain can't come off.

3. Now you will have the wire from the eye pin sticking out. Slide on one of the light pink glass beads, followed by a hot pink crystal bead, and then one more light pink bead.

4. Snip the wire down so there is a 3/4 inch tail.

5. Pick up the longer piece of chain, and then attach the wire through the end link with the needle nose pliers. Bend it tight so the chain will not come loose. Repeat this process five more times, or until you have reached the desired length.

6. Use needle nose pliers to attach a split ring to each end of the bracelet, and then add a lobster claw clasp to one end.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry

A few weeks ago, I inherited a 10-pound bag of costume jewelry. At first, I didn't know what to make of it. I peeked inside to find a huge, tangled mess of mismatched pieces.

Once I took a closer look, I realized it was a treasure- trove of opportunity. I'm talking a major pirate's booty score! With my first scoop I lifted out a handful of shiny, sparkling goodies: several decades' worth of rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, brooches and rings. I cleared off my worktable, whipped out my needle-nose pliers and went to work on major jewelry reconstruction. I turned old pins into mod-looking necklaces, small pendants into earrings, boring necklaces into charm bracelets and so on. The best part? I didn't need to buy a lot of supplies, just a bag of assorted jump rings to connect the pieces.

I highly suggest giving this project a try. It's easy to execute and you'll end up with a variety of one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. To start, visit your local thrift store or flea market and buy all of the vintage costume jewelry you can. (Look for the discounted, tangled stuff.) Once you are home and have a pile of it in front of you, disassemble everything and find new ways to put it back together. I've decided that for my next round of designing, I'll incorporate contemporary elements along with glass beads and charms. This idea also works great for a girls' night out. Ask your friends to bring a sandwich-size baggie from their personal jewelry graveyard. When you meet, dump all of the pieces in the center of a table and have everyone dig in. At the end, everyone swaps pieces. Not only will it make for a fun activity, you'll also have new jewelry to show off.
Reconstructed Jewelry
Supplies
• Assorted pieces of vintage or contemporary costume jewelry
• Needle-nose pliers
• Assorted chains, cording, ribbons
• Jump rings in assorted sizes
• Jewelry findings: clasps, fishhook earrings, ring blanks
• Industrial Strength Adhesive
• Assorted glass beads and eye pins (optional)

Directions: Lay out all of the jewelry pieces and choose the ones that will make nice pendants, charms or earrings. Match chains, cording and ribbons with the jewelry pieces.

To turn brooches into necklaces, add two jump rings to the pin and then add a strand of chain to each side. Add a clasp at the top. To turn an old earring into a charm, add a jump ring to the top hole. Some pieces may not have a hole. In that case, use extra-strength adhesive to adhere a jump ring to the jewelry. Let dry for an hour before connecting to a chain. Follow similar steps to make earrings and charm bracelets. To make rings, use the industrial-strength adhesive to attach a jewelry piece to the top of a ring blank.

Variations: If you find pieces made of wood, use a drill to make holes to connect them to a chain. If you like, use eye pins to add beads to your necklace, charm bracelets or earrings. If you need chain, check out a bead shop or craft store to find different grades. You also can use old jewelry pieces to brighten up a picture frame or other home décor items.


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry, wearable art

(Photo and text copyright Kathy Cano Murillo/The Arizona Republic, 2006)

Visualization is the key with this bold bauble bracelet that looks just like frozen ice cubes.

Supplies: Plastic ice cube tray, Easy Cast resin, blue resin coloring, gold micro stars, paper cup, chopstick for stirring, disposable measuring cup, needle nose pliers, drill, jump rings, bracelet clasp.

Directions: Mix the resin according to package directions (using cup, chopstick and measuring cup) and pour an approximately 1/4-inch layer into dry ice cube tray compartments. Sprinkle in gold stars. Let set for four hours. Mix up a new batch of resin, but this time add one drop of blue resin coloring. Dab on a thin layer on each cube. Keep it thin, because it is just to give it a faint blue tinge from behind. Let cure for 24 hours. Pop the pieces out of the tray. On each side, drill a hole at an angle, coming out the bottom. Using pliers, insert a jump ring and connect the pieces. Attach bracelet clasp.

Note: After you've finished, do not use this ice cube tray to make real ice.

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry, summer/4th of July, wearable art

My husband doesn't get this week's project. He doesn't understand that there is a secret code between crafters - that we can spot each other in a crowd thanks to little clues. Especially when we wear a spool of thread as a necklace. OK, it's not as weird as it sounds. Every time I go to the fabric store, I longingly gaze at the thread display. The spools are lined up like cupcakes in a bakery display, all colorful and yummy-looking. Despite the excitement, a sense of sadness sweeps over me because I know I'll never have enough time to use every hue. So rather than call a crafty counselor to vent, I bought all my favorite colors and vowed to make something fabulous. I added a few beads, some velvet cording, connected them with eye pins and voila!: the birth of a necklace that any artista can wear with pride. Keep in mind, the spool is meant to be a pendant. But if you ever happen to need some thread, you'll be in luck!
Super Spool Necklace
Supplies
1 small spool of thread
Patterned fabric or decorative scrapbook paper
1 bag of eye pins, 2 inches long each
Assorted beads
Large jump ring
Cording, ribbon or chain
Needle-nose pliers
Scissors
Glue stick

Directions: Remove the label from both ends of the spool and using the glue stick, replace with circles cut from the patterned paper. Thread a bead on an eye pin and slide on to the spool; use the needle-nose pliers to add to the jump ring at the top. Create dangles for the bottom of the spool by adding a bead to another eye pin. Repeat until you have as many as you want. Use the pliers to attach dangle to the eyehole at the bottom of the spool. Attach the necklace cord by tying it to the jump ring. If desired, cut a small strip of decorative paper and glue it around the spool.

Variations: For a bolder look, use the spools to make necklaces and bracelets. Or use it as a fan pull for the craft room, or use several to create a colorful hanging mobile. You could also use long strands of ribbon to hold spools and hang them on mug hooks in your sewing room to add a touch of décor, as well as easy-to-reach functionality. Look for minisewing kits that have micro-size spools to make smaller jewelry pieces.


And while we're at it. Aren't these pins so cute? I got them at the Renegade Craft Fair.


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry, wearable art

I apologize for the long run without new ideas! I've been traveling so much this summer, I haven't had much time. But I'm back in the crafty saddle. First up - Glitter n Glam Rings! I was inspired to make these after indulging in way too much gourmet glitter from ArtGlitter.com.

Supplies:
Resin Jewelry Molds (see pic below, available at Hobby Lobby and other craft stores)
EasyCast resin (available at Hobby Lobby and other craft stores)
Mixing cups, measuring cup, chopstick for stirring (found at craft store)
Mini-straw
Ring blanks (I buy mine on eBay)
Loose glitter (the more dimensional in color, the better)

How to do it:
Prepare the resin mixture according to the package directions - EXACTLY. Do not "eyeball" the measurements because your resin will not set and you will cry. Pour a small amount of the resin in the mold, blow with straw to remove gas bubbles. When resin is clear, pour in the glitter almost to the top of the mold, but not all the way. Now pour in another thin layer of resin. Use the chopstick to move the resin around so it covers all of the glitter. Blow out bubbles with straw. Let set for 24 hours. Add one more thin layer of resin and set the ring blank face down*. Let sit for 24 hours. Pop out of mold and use a file or sandpaper to smooth down the edges. If desired, use a buffing tool to make the ring shiny.

*Alternative: You can skip the last part and just use E6000 to glue the ring blank on. Also, you can embed other small object or pictures by printing them out on high gloss photo paper.


Resin jewelry mold


EasyCast Resin

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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: glitter, jewelry, resin, rings, wearable art

Sandal season is in full swing, which means it's time to flaunt those ankles. What better way than to combine ribbon and charms for an earthy, East Village bohemian look? My best tip for this project is to work under good lighting because you will be stitching small jump rings to a thin piece of velvet ribbon. It's worth the detailed effort: The end result is a colorful, dangly anklet that is all about movement and sass!

Supplies
Thin velvet ribbon
Small charms, faux coins, beads, etc.
Assorted multicolored beads
1 package of small jump rings
Embroidery thread (same color as ribbon), needle
1 medium jump ring
Bracelet clasp
Needle-nose pliers

Directions: Measure your ankle, add 1 inch to the number and cut a piece of ribbon to that size. Find the middle of the ribbon and attach a small jump ring to it by hand-stitching it on with the embroidery thread and needle. Add jump rings to the left and then to the right so you have a row of jump rings sewn onto the ribbon. Using the needle-nose pliers, open each jump ring and attach a charm.

If you want to add beads, put them on head pins and attach to jump rings. Close each jump ring so charms will not come off. On each end of the ribbon, add a medium jump ring by feeding the ribbon through and sewing the end. Add clasp.

Variation: Use different kinds of ribbons to vary looks. Make a choker or wrist bracelet to match. You can sew the charms right to the ribbon, but they won't dangle as much.


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry, summer/4th of July, wearable art

One spool of wire can lead to a lifetime of flirty finger embellishments. Here's my recipe for whipping up a batch of beaded baubles for you and the gang. I've recently come off a charm bracelet bender. After spending several weeks connecting abstract objects to a chain, I've curbed my obsession, or at least toned it down.

I never let anything go to waste. Therefore, I took a spool of wire and the leftover beads, buttons and charms from my bracelet projects and made these adorable charm rings.

Use your finger as a guide to shape the base and then add whatever you like at the top. I secured a jump ring to add dangling beads, and on others I anchored a button, charm or bead at the top.

I love this idea because it has a speedy result, which is great if you want to make jewelry but don't have the time or energy to devote to a bracelet or necklace. For a higher quality ring, use sterling silver wire. All supplies can be found at local craft or bead stores.
Charm Rings
Supplies
1 spool of 18- or 24-gauge wire (sterling silver is best)
Needle nose pliers with cutting device
Small jump rings
Assorted charms, beads or buttons
Ring sizer (optional)

Directions: Cut off an 18-inch piece of wire. Using your finger or a ring sizer, wrap the wire around it four to five times to create the base of the ring.

Straighten out the tail of extra wire. On the ring's base, position the raw end of the wire at the top and pinch in place. Feed the tail through the hole of the base and up and around the top to cover. Pull it tight to cover that raw end.

Straighten the remaining length of the tail, and if you want to have a ring with dangling charms, slip on the small jump ring and feed the wire through it to secure it to the top of the ring so it stands upright. (If you don't want dangles, you can skip the jump ring and feed on a bead, button or charm.)

Make sure the end of the wire is lodged between the layers of wire. Add beads or charms to small head pins. Using the needle nose pliers, attach the head pins to the jump ring by bending the wire over the jump ring.

Tips and variations: For more of a "wrapped" look, cut a longer piece of wire (about 22 inches) and after you make the circles for the ring base, use the tail to wrap around it. For a gaudy look, add a lot of dangling beads; for a daintier look, add a few small ones. Think of other objects to add such as bottle caps, birthstone gems, small fabric or silk flowers.


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* All content/photos copyright, Kathy Cano Murillo, 2006. Photos property and courtesy of Arizona Republic and AzCentral.com. For more artsy goodness, check out CraftyChica.com *

Labels: jewelry, recycled, rings, wearable art

I've been swimming in the world of embossing powders and rubber stamps these days. Seeing that I'm designing a line of stamps soon, I thought it would be a great idea. So here is a little project I did with wood pieces and embossing powder. Thank you to Judy Ross from the Creative Quest for helping me!



Embossing is a technique often used in scrapbooking, altered arts and any other kind of paper arts you can think of.

Therefore, it's time to mix it up a bit and use it in jewelry. My inspiration this week comes from stamp queen Judy Ross of The Creative Quest in Glendale, who recently gave me a crash course in the various types of products. I've dabbled with embossing powders before, but more as an experimental exercise than a focused mission. This project is perfect for beginners because by using small wood pieces, you can play around with different colors and images and use them for a variety of purposes. If you make a mistake, it will have a weathered look and can still be used in your work. All items can be found at any craft or paper arts store.
Embossed Jewelry
Supplies:
Assorted small wood pieces
Assorted dobber-type paper inks
Embossing stamp pad
Assorted rubber stamps
Embossing powder
Embossing tool
Hand-held drill
Necklace chain or cording
Jump rings

Directions: Use the paper inks to color the wood pieces. Let dry. Dot the embossing pad over the surface of the rubber stamp until it is generously covered. Press in desired place on the wood piece - be careful not to smear. Pour embossing powder o