Handmade Wire and Metal Charms That Look Oh- So-Sweet

"Nesting"

 As I was teaching a class last night the actual terms for some things kept alluding me. So I did a little improvisation (the words "thingie and danglie" were used with complete abandon). I did remember the word "mandrel" though and man, did I work that one. The class was a riff off of the mixed media charm bracelet I have in my book and pretty technique heavy. It was really a primer on how to begin to create jewelry, work with polymer clay, create your own wire forms (thus the word "mandrel" being used),an intro to resin, AND to basic stitching. For most of the class this was their first exposure to any of those materials and techniques and I was so impressed  by their willingness to try something new and have fun doing it. They all did wonderfully and I loved seeing all those danglies swinging from their wrists as they walked out at the end of class. 

A Penny for your Thoughts

Besides the charms from my book, I created a few more handmade charms that were simply made to demonstrate to the class how wonderful  wire can be. I also got out my tin snips and scraps from an old metal tray (the rest of it I had used for my altered tin heart tutorial here on the blog). I really love how they turned out.  My faves were a mini scribble heart, a little bird's nest, a couple of charms cut from an old tin tray, a button, a lucky penny, a jump ring danglie of shell buttons, and a funky little spiral.

This morning after I grabbed my coffee, I got out my pliers and a chain and made my own little bracelet with the charms to show you. I really do love how versatile wire can be, and how easily it can be shaped into forms that seem soft or organic and yet are so solid and firm to the touch. It's a juxtaposition I love. 

The completed bracelet has a definite handmade charm

 Which are your faves? Have you ever made a charm bracelet? Any sweet tips on other unexpected items that you've worked with? I'd love to have you share, so please leave a comment! Have a great weekend and thanks again for stopping by! :)