This is a project workshop in which students will learn how to turn an old, non-working wristwatch into a beautiful keepsake locket similar to the example. We’ll start with a watch case, fill it with resin, add some wire, learn some winding, bending and cold-connection techniques and turn it all into a unique piece of jewelry.
Supply List:
- Bring one or more watch cases; men’s watches with an approximate 1 inch diameter work best, but most any size can be used. Disassemble the watch if you can and remove the watch mechanism inside. If you can’t get it apart, bring it class and we’ll attack it together. Hang on to the spring pins that hold the watch strap if you can.
- A steel ‘fender’ washer approx. 2 inches in diameter. Fender washers can be found at most hardware/home supply stores. They are thinner than a standard washer, which will become important when we saw out the heart shape. It doesn’t have to be rusty, but it does add a bit to the overall ‘found object’ feel. Suggestions for adding a rusty effect are given at the end of this class description.
Refer to the sample photos for ideas as to what objects you might want to bring to serve as a focal point for the locket cover.
- You will also want to bring a photo or other image to be put into the finished locket.
*** Special Note: I generally use iron wire for the project, but many students have found it difficult to work with. If you would prefer to work with copper wire instead of the ‘rebar wire’, please bring 14 gauge and 20 gauge copper wire. You probably won’t need more than 10 feet of each size. If you can’t find those sizes at your local supplier try one of the suppliers listed under 'Resources' below.
- Basic jewelry making tools will be needed, including round nose and flat nose pliers, wire cutters (flush cutters recommended) suitable for cutting iron wire…don’t use you best cutters…inexpensive, heavy-duty wire cutters and needle-nose pliers are available at Lowes, Ace Hardware and Home Depot.
- Small hammer …once again, for use on iron wire, don’t bring your best chasing or riveting hammer!
- Small portable table vise ( the type that clamps onto a table…the 3 or 4 inch variety is fine and available at Home Depot or Lowes)
- Jeweler’s saw and #2 and/or #4 blades
- Bench block
- Bench pin
Optional equipment:
- “Gizmo” winding tool
Teacher will bring:
- resin, iron wire and leather neck cord
Resources: supplies and tools can be found at the following
- www.monsterslayer.com
- www.riogrande.com
- www.sfjssantafe.com
- www.contenti.com
- www.harborfreight.com
