Rings and Things

For craft artisans casting about for the latest solid trend in baubles, memory jewelry makes an indelible impression…  Rings & Things reminds crafters to keep a trove of new supplies in mind.

Memories...

Image Transfer Solution (ITS) is a fluid that allows you to transfer images from laser/toner printers (but not ink jet) onto non-porous surfaces like metal, beach glass, wood, and unglazed tile. Using it is simple: it takes only heat-setting (in an oven or with a heat gun) and washing off the paper. ITS may also be mixed with pigments and used as paint on metal.

Photos or other images can be sealed between the tiny double panes of clear glass in new frame-charm findings to make custom keepsake jewelry. The bails of these frames measure 7mm (over 1/4 inch) inner diameter, large enough to fit most any cord. Platings currently on offer include ‘white’ metal and stylish copper plate. Three shapes enliven the charm of these handmade pendants, with rectangles, pentagons and squares available to set off the individuality of any cropped image. An assortment of these hinged picture-frame charms can make a treasured wearable photo album out of customers’ favorite snapshots, or even a gallery of art or choice found images.

Crafters shouldn’t forget to try out new shadow-box pendants as well. Also known as ‘dream boxes’, these findings have a single pane of glass in an antiqued-copper plated box that fits images about 1½ inch on a side. Display-box pendants like these can also be used to show off tiny prized treasures, from an antique coin or bead to a mini art assemblage.

Jewelry crafters may recall that resin-casting jewelry has made quite a sensation, and numerous bezel findings add even more possibilities for memory jewelry. All it takes is cutting an image to the appropriate size, gluing it into a setting like Rings & Things’ new sterling-silver bezel cups, and pouring in a small amount of epoxy resin such as EasyCast. The results are lasting memories in the form of pendants, earrings and other jewelry.

Suggest more memory-jewelry ideas in a comment!