What is Steampunk jewellery?

Based around the Victorian industrial revolution when the steam engine changed the face of Britain. Steampunk is mixture of science fiction, fantasy and alternative history.

Although Steampunk came into prominence during the 80's and 90's it is now going through a much greater and wider revival - especially Steampunk Jewellery which more and more people are starting to prefer as a must have fashionable accessory.

Steampunk jewellery is way of expressing this genre. Typically made from recycled Watch Parts, Cogs, Gears, Vintage Clock faces...ect. Steampunk jewellery is all about the aged and antique look of the Victorian era, made with Antique Gold and Antique Silver plated findings to enhance and age the jewellery without losing the quality.

What is Silver Filled Jewellery?

The simplest way of explaining the definition of Silver Filled Jewellery is to first explain the definition of Gold Filled.

Gold Filled (alternatively known as 'Rolled Gold') is basically a base metal with a solid layer of Gold bonded to its surface.  The gold content in the component is 1/20th by weight of 12 karat gold. Gold fill items do not tarnish and offer a much cheaper option to 9ct.Gold.

Gold Filled items have a 50,000 to 100,000 times thicker layer of Gold than normal Gold Plated items giving most Gold Filled Jewellery the same look and feel as 14 Karat Gold jewellery.

Gold Filled was mainly created to reduce the costs for Jewellery without sacrificing the perceived value or beauty and to still retain the durability and long term wear.

So, as with Gold - the necessity for a cheaper alternative with the same perceived qualities arose for Sterling Silver due to its ever increasing price.

Silver Filled was created to bridge the gap between Sterling Silver and Silver Plated. It is created in the same way as Gold Filled - A solid layer of Sterling Silver bonded to the surface of a base metal. This layer, as with the Gold Filled is hundreds of times thicker then Silver Plating.

Silver Filled jewellery is mainly found in two qualities, one will have at least 1/20 (5%) Sterling Silver by weight and the other will have 1/10 (10%) Sterling Silver by weight of the item. International Craft carry the thicker coating 1/10 Silver Filled components.  The thicker coating of .925 silver better serves making quality jewellery. Silver Filled wire has almost the same properties as Sterling Silver and is as easy to manipulate and does not flake or chip as with Silver Plated. 

As mentioned earlier, Sterling Silver prices have risen to record highs, so for most jewellery designers this has caused enormous problems with the value of their designs and are now opting for Silver Fillled Findings because they looks just like Sterling Silver Findings and are a fraction of the cost ( 25 - 50% cheaper ) giving their designs a higher perceived value.

Digital Images for Pendants & Charms

PaperStreet Supplies carries a large supply of printable images for use in altered art photo charms, bottle cap pendants, scrabble tile charms, domino pendants, magnets, pocket mirrors, pin-back buttons and more. With instant downloads you can start your mixed media or altered art project immediately!

Digital collage sheets contain printable, royalty free source images for use by artists,crafters & pendant makers, packaged neatly together into in digital file which can bedownloaded & printed over & over again. The digital images can also be manipulated using most photo editing programs (ie, Adobe Photoshop or the freeware Paint.NET).

PaperStreet's images are also great for collage, assemblage, scrapbooking, decoupage, and many other crafting projects. Collage sheets are available as a high resolution JPEG files types. Download links are activated upon payment review (usually just seconds).  Downloads are very reasonable and look out for their 'Buy 3 get one free' coupons which are always available on their website.

Choose from a vast selection of image sheets which include the following and many, many more

Steampunk backgrounds, Fantasy, Victorian, Vintage, Clockfaces, Gothic, Butterflies, Dragonflies, Birds.....

The image files are downloadable as A4 sheets, with which you have the option of either selecting square images or round images in various sizes ( The above sheets contain 1"(25mm) Square images)



Print and cut out these images for use in pendant blanks to create personalised pendants, charm bracelets and rings.

Seal pictures in with either Glass cabochons or Glossy Accents glaze.


Tip: If you want to use the 1" (25mm) images with our 20mm Pendant settings , then all you need to do is the following: When printing click into 'Printing preferences'. Then Select 'Effects'. Now change the "% of normal size" to 80 and print. This will reduce the 25mm images to 20mm.



Use our Pendant Settings with our Domed Glass Cabochons for a professional finish. As you can see from the bracelet on the right we have used the 16mm base pendant settings as photo charms on a large link charm bracelet .  We used the 1" circle Butterfly sheet from Paperstreet for a nice vintage theme.

All you really need here is our Hypo Cement Glue to first glue the picture to the pendant setting then once set apply a thin even coating of the glue to the surface of the photo, please be aware that the glue will set very quickly so you will need to put the cabochon in place as soon as you have applied it. Once the cabochon is in place you will need to apply some pressure for about 30 seconds to remove any air bubbles. Hypo cement will dry crystal clear enhancing your photo/image.
TIP - We marked around the edge of the glass cabochon on the image/photo to get the correct shape and size and cut along it.


Another great option is to use the Pendant settings with 'Glossy Accents™' instead of the glass cabochons. This fantastic product will allow you to let your imagination run wild!
Glossy Accents™ is a clear, three-dimensional gloss medium, which you can use to accent, brighten, dimensionalise and magnify your altered art and photo charm jewellery projects. Place Glossy Accents™ under embellishments to make them stick and on top to protect and glossify! Dries to a hard transparent finish, and also works as a glue.
If you want to give your jewellery more vintage look then try Crackle Accents™.

We used Glossy Accents in the pendant setting above. We first applied a small amount into the pendant setting and glued the butterfly image into it, then we placed in a couple ofSteampunk Watch parts with words cut out from a newspaper and then simply poured in the Glossy Accents - being careful not to let it spill over the edge and then let it set for a couple of hours - the results were amazing.
TIP - sandwich any photos/picture or newspaper clippings in clear sellotape when using with Glossy Accents to prevent the colours from bleeding.  Or you can use a sealant like Glue N Seal.
Also, using double sided sticky tape we stuck the newspaper clipping to a peices of thin card and cut to size. This added some depth to the clippings making them stand out more.


Another great range of products for making photo jewellery and for using Paperstreet supplies printable images is the Ranger Memory Glass and Frames.
Create a personalised window of art by placing a piece of Memory Glass on top of your work/photo or sandwich between two pieces. Use a Memory Frame to hold the pendant together or use Memory Foil Tape instead - here you would need to use a Leaf Mounting Bail to make this into a pendant

Layer your work to create the illusion of depth. Start with a background and add layers, distressing the edges with ink to create a shadow look aroung the image of text you are layering.






If you don't have a photo editing programme like Photoshop then click here for free download of PAINT.NET photo editing software . Then follow instructions to download and install.

http://collagesheets.paperstreetsupplies.com/digital-collage-sheets/pendant-images.html?ref=3&data=Blog

How to Make Photo Jewellery

Turn your memories into beautiful jewellery. Upcycle gorgeous invitations, photos, brochures, old newspapers, vintage prints or damaged dresses into wearable art. Take your favourite photo or other attractive paper or fabric, cut it out, glue it in a lovely bezel and seal it with a glossy glaze resin or glass cabochon to create lasting, very special jewellery. The possibilities are endless, so we'll try to make it easier for yor with step by step guides and some ideas to help you start.

The simplest starting point would probably be to use our Pendant Settings with our Domed Glass Cabochons. As you can see from the bracelet on the left we have used the 16mm base pendant settings as photo charms on a large link charm bracelet .

All you really need here is our Hypo Cement Glue to first glue the photo to the pendant setting then once set apply a thin even coating of the glue to the surface of the photo, please be aware that the glue will set very quickly so you will need to put the cabochon in place as soon as you have applied it. Once the cabochon is in place you will need to apply some pressure for about 30 seconds to remove any air bubbles. Hypo cement will dry crystal clear enhancing your photo/image.
TIP - We marked around the edge of the glass cabochon on the photo to get the correct shape and size and cut along it.

Another great option is to use the Pendant settings with 'Glossy Accents™' instead of the glass cabochons. This fantastic product will allow you to let your imagination run wild!
Glossy Accents™ is a clear, three-dimensional gloss medium, which you can use to accent, brighten, dimensionalise and magnify your altered art and photo charm jewellery projects. Place Glossy Accents™ under embellishments to make them stick and on top to protect and glossify! Dries to a hard transparent finish, and also works as a glue.
If you want to give your jewellery more vintage look then try Crackle Accents™.

We used Glossy Accents in the pendant setting above. We first applied a small amount into the pendant setting and glued the butterfly image into it, then we placed in a couple of Steampunk Watch parts with words cut out from a newspaper and then simply poured in the Glossy Accents - being careful not to let it spill over the edge and then let it set for a couple of hours - the results were amazing.
TIP - sandwich any photos/picture or newspaper clippings in clear sellotape when using with Glossy Accents to prevent the colours from bleeding. Also, using double sided sticky tape we stuck the newspaper clipping to a peices of thin card and cut to size. This added some depth to the clippings making them stand out more.


The butterfly picture we used in the pendant was supplied to us by Paperstreet Supplies who carry a large supply of printable images for use in altered art photo charms, bottle cap pendants, scrabble tile charms, domino pendants and more. With instant downloads you can start your mixed media or altered art jewellery project immediately! Collage sheets are available as a high resolution JPEG files types. Download links are activated upon payment review on their website (usually just seconds and very reasonable). Click the image banner to the left to be taken to their fantasic site.

Leaf Mounting Bails are a fantastic way of creating your own unique pendants out of almost anything.

Heres a quick tutorial to give you and idea on the Leaf mounting bails uses.

Materials needed: Super Epoxy Glue, Hypo Cement, 1x1" Glass Cabochon , 1×1" Image, piece of paper backing, Leaf Mounting Bail , Wide Clear Sellotape and scissors.

Step 1: Sandwich the 1x1" image in the clear sellotape and cut off the excess around the edges.This is to prevent the ink from bleeding.

Step 2: Apply Hypo Cement to the back of the glass Cabochon. Once the Cabochon is covered flip it over and place it on the image and press down firmly. Don’t worry about the glue coming out of the edges.

Let the Cabochon set and dry

Step 3: Cut the excess paper away from the glass tile and clean any glue stuck to the sides off. It comes off pretty easy

Step 4: Flip the tile over and apply a thin layer of Hypo Cement to the back of the tile. Have your backing ready (placed upside down)Step 5: Once you have the tile covered, flip it over and place it on the backing and allow this to dry. Again, don’t worry about the glaze coming out the sides.

Step 6: Once this is dry (about 15-20 minutes) you can cut away the backing to the size of the tile. Cut tight to the glass and make nice clean cuts.Step 7: Turn the tile over so the backing is facing up. Get your bail and glue ready

Step 8: Put a small dab of Super Epoxy on the inside of the silver bail and glue it onto the backing at the top of the pendant. Let that dry. At this point I usually allow the pieces to dry over night.
This is the finished product. Hang them from leather or a chain and enjoy!! Although they are very study they are not waterproof. To keep them looking lovely do not shower, bath or swim with your pendant on.

Another great range of products for making photo jewellery is the Ranger Memory Glass and Frames.
Create a personalised window of art by placing a piece of Memory Glass on top of your work/photo or sandwich between two pieces. Use a Memory Frame to hold the pendant together or use Memory Foil Tape instead - here you would need to use a Leaf Mounting Bail to make this into a pendant

Layer your work to create the illusion of depth. Start with a background and add layers, distressing the edges with ink to create a shadow look aroung the image of text you are layering.
Try linking together the Memory Frame 1" Squares to create a fantastic bracelet....The one above was created using wedding photos to make it into a cherished keepsake immortalising those great memories.

Swarovski bicone bead to be replaced with Xillion Bead

Swarovski are to replace their ever popular and customer favourite bicone bead with the new and improved Xillion bead.
From June 2nd through September 2009 CRYSTALLIZED™ - Swarovski Elements will transition to the brilliant XILION upgrade of the 5301 Bead, represented by the new and improved article:
5328 XILION Bead.

The revolutionary XILION cut, with its alternating large and small facets, results in distinctively higher brilliance and particularly intense light reflection. In addition, this cut is differentiated from all other products on the market and copyright protected. The increased number of facets enhances the overall appearance of the bead and the rounder belt line result in improved wearing comfort of the finished design. You will benefit from the unique XILION brilliance, leading to clearer differentiation between your products and designs and those of your competitors.

The fascinating XILION cut will be applied to all standard sizes of the bicone bead except for 2.5 mm, which is too small to be upgraded. As was the case for all other XILION products, the article number will also be changed and will now become art. 5328.

The new article will be available – without any additional price increase – in the same assortment as the existing article 5301. For application, the 5301 and 5328 XILION Bead can be combined as their dimensions and geometry are complimentary.

From June 2nd through September there will be a transition period. During that time art. 5328 can only be ordered and will only be shipped, if the counterpart 5301 is out of stock.

Top tips to start a Jewellery Making Business

In the current global economic climate with no job security and uncertain futures, many are looking for opportunities to earn some extra cash. Starting a jewellery making business is one such rewarding opportunity both on a financial level and an emotional level.

Jewellery making is fun and addictive. Most jewellers start for fun, making jewellery for themselves. This generally leads to positive comments from friends and family. And before they know it, they are taking commissioned orders and selling their designs. If you love designing jewellery, turn it into a business you can run from home by following these great tips:

1. Research current jewellery trends - Carry out some research to see what the current styles of jewellery are on the market. Read fashion magazines and window shop at jewellery shops and department sores. Find out how the jewellery is made, what its made from and what it sells for. This will put you in good standing when it comes to creating and designing your own jewellery.
   
2. Making your jewellery - Most jewellery are made from the same basic jewellery components and use the same basic jewellery making techniques but it will be your creativity and design ideas that will help you stand out from the crowd. You need to create desirability. This can be done by using beads or a combination of beads in a way that is unique.
   
3. Price your jewellery - 'How much should I sell my jewellery pieces for?'. This is the most common questioned asked by beginners and in some ways the most important. If you don't price right, you will not make money. The biggest mistake a lot of jewellery designers make is to undersell their pieces. Many jewellery artists price their work by simply doubling the cost of their supplies - charging £10 for that necklace made from £5 of jewellery supplies. Unfortunately, it’s impossible to have a profitable business with that kind of pricing. It doesn’t cover all of your costs. You need to account for your labour time and skill used in making the jewellery piece as well as the material costs. What is your skill worth? Work out your hourly labour rate. This could be £20/hour (of course, your own labour rate may be much different, depending on your reputation, your speed, and your skill level).
   
4. Simple jewellery pricing formula - Price = material costs x 3 + pro-rated hourly labour rate. For example the necklace you just made cost £5 in jewellery supplies and took you 30 minutes to make. Using the formula Price = £5 material costs x 3 + £10 labour (Your 30 minutes of labour equals half an hour. So half of your £20 hourly labour rate equals £10 of labour on this necklace. This gives you a selling price of £25.
   
5. Market price of jewellery - An additional step in using the jewellery pricing formula above is to take into account the following to adjust the the resulting price: (a) what will your target market be prepared to pay; (b) how unique is the jewellery made; (c) what do shops charge for similar pieces. Remember this is all subjective and the formula should only be used as a guide.
   
6. Maximise profits - Remember it can be better to overprice your jewellery and reduce prices than it is to under value and increase your price. Success depends on selling your jewellery high enough to make a good profit and low enough to achieve good sales.
7. Added value to your jewellery - it is a good idea to consider the use of jewellery presentation boxes and pouches for the display and selling of your jewellery. Not only do they enhance the beauty of your jewellery pieces but they also help increase your sales. Not only would the box protect the jewellery piece, but it also allows your customer to present it as a gift.
   
8. Selling your jewellery - Selling your own jewellery requires patience, persistence and thick skin. There are many avenues to follow to sell your jewellery. Here are a few avenues in increasing sales potential:
   

• Sell to friends.
  
• Sell to co-workers.
• Sell at a home jewellery party.
• Sell at a Craft Show.
• Sell at a Market.
• Sell wholesale to a Jewellery store.
• Open your own shop or on line jewellery store.

Remember learning to make jewellery is easy and fun. Make jewellery for fun and profit. The difficult part is standing out from the crowd. As an artist your creativity and skill will help you do this.

2009 Recession

A quick message to all our loyal customers who may have noticed some price increases recently on certain items. As you are in no doubt that we are all in a recession, with the newspapers quick to spread doom and gloom.

The good news is that crafting and jewellery making tend to do quite well during these times as buyers look for cheaper alternatives to high priced retail jewellery.

The bad news (good news for all our Eurozone customers) is that the downturn in the UK economy, this time, has seen the Pound Sterling weaken against many currencies. It has weakened considerably against the US Dollar and the Euro. And since we mainly import goods using these currencies, it is costing us more at present and unfortunately we are having to pass on some of these costs.

For those of you who have been buying from us for a long time, you know that we offer quality products at competitive prices that rarely increase. The raw price of goods we have been buying from the manufacturers have been increasing for a year or two, but we were able to offset these increases against the strong Pound and we were able to maintain prices. However market forces are working against all importers at present, making the cost of goods ever more expensive.

We are absorbing as much costs increases as we can so as to help keep prices down. However you will notice certain products increasing in price more frequently than normal. We are only doing this for products that we have recently imported (and therefore cost more). Prices won't change for items where we already have stocks.

Of course if the Pound strengthens significantly in the future, then you will see our prices come back down. Please be assured that we are doing everything we can to keep prices stable. May I suggest that where you buying items that have increased in price, that you look to increase your selling price as well. This will ensure you are still making a living from all your jewellery making.

We will endeavour to keep sourcing new jewellery ranges and beads in 2009 in a bid to keep things fresh and to give you more ideas and choice.

Jewellery bags and pouches - new arrivals

Take a look at our new range of jewellery bags and pouches that we've added to give greater choice in addition to our popular organza jewellery bags.
These will provide an alternative option to jewellery boxes to sell your jewellery in for your Christmas sales. As I've previously mentioned, well presented jewellery will increase the sales of your jewellery and give added value. Your customers would be more inclined to buy your jewellery as a gift at this time of the year and so it would be a good idea to sell your jewellery in a nice presentation box or bag, whatever suits your style and range.

When pricing your jewellery make sure you include the cost of any presentation boxes or pouches into the final price. Display materials need not be expensive, you can find great value and quality jewellery bags and pouches at internationalcraft.com .