 Multi-Metal
& Cold Connected
by Helen I. Driggs
A no-torch bracelet with endless variations
Download the PDF project
(301KB)
Yes, you can improve your fabrication skills and have something new to wear
when you’re done.
A beginner can easily create the circle units in this bracelet — but
I warn you, making them becomes highly addictive. When I get fleeting ideas that
need testing, geometric shapes help me avoid getting hung up on aesthetics instead
of problem solving.
Simple, 1” circles or squares have enough of a surface to help you figure
something out — and this bracelet grew out of that kind of figuring.
For this project, I’ve made 6 identically constructed units — the
seventh closure unit is similar, but not exact. Each circle also has its own look,
for which I used a mixture of gauges of copper, silver, reticulation silver, brass,
and bronze from my experiment box in a variety of ways.
As you experiment and fabricate, you’ll also be honing your ability to
measure, divide, drill, texture, saw pierce, patina — and design! Once you
master the construction of the circles, you’ll want to vary them and your
jewelry further. Cut out a square hole instead of a round one, cut holes in both top and bottom circles to make a wheel, use three circle layers
instead of two, cluster tubes in the center and set stones in them, and then connect
all your variations not only into bracelets, but also necklaces, earrings, and
belts — the only limitation is your imagination.
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