How to Make Metal Jewelry

Designing your own original metal jewelry can be very satisfying. Not only can you express yourself, but you can also save money. Creating a pair of earrings would be the perfect project to begin with; here's how to do it.

Instructions

1

Select the design tip of your choice, place a sheet of 18-gauge sterling, copper or brass on a hard surface such as an anvil or large piece of metal, then punch your selected design over the metal. Carefully punch identical designs on each section.

2

Cut in identical squares the size you want your finished earrings to be. After you have completed cutting, punch the hole for the ear wire using a sharp-tipped nail to punch a dot. Locate the hole in a comfortable area near the corner where the earring will hang. Repeat this on the next earring.

3

Smooth the edges carefully where the designs were punched with a manicure file, such as one used for acrylic nails. Smooth all edges around the entire earring for a finished look.

4

Polish the entire surface of both earrings. If an antique effect is desired, you can gently put on a thin layer of dark stain. The design of the earring and the holes that were punched will determine the style of your jewelry.

5

Attach the ear wires in the corner holes when the smoothing and polishing process is completed. To give your earrings a dramatic look, you can attach rhinestones using jewelry glue or adhesive.