DIY Network

Washer Rings and Brooches Create funky rings and elegant brooches with washers and beads with tips from Michele Beschen. From "B. Original" episode DBOR-102

Michele Beschen’s easy-to-make rings are the perfect accessories if you love funky, chunky jewelry. Washer brooches with glass beads make a great accent whether your look is casual or sophisticated.

Create these funky, chunky rings...

and beaded brooches for a hip, new look!

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Rings

Materials:

split-lock washers that will fit around your finger
drill and 1/16" bit suitable for metals
scrap wood and small clamp
22-gauge wire
needle-nose pliers
beads and/or small, decorative stones

	Figure A
	Figure B

• For each ring, drill two holes in a washer—one on each side of the split. Clamp the washer to scrap wood for drilling (figure A).

  Note: Use a piece of scrap wood behind the washer when drilling, and make sure you use a drill bit suitable for hard metals. If you’re using a hand drill, clamp the washer tightly to the wood. Remember, always wear eye protection when drilling metal.

• Run wire through the holes to attach beads. Make sure you bend any sharp edges under so they don’t scratch your skin or snag on clothing.

• You can double up your split-lock washers for thicker rings—just make sure you drill your holes at the exact same place on both washers so they line up evenly (figure B). You also can use a small, decorative stone along with your beads.

Figure C