I've always thought the best part of making something is the moment it arrives in the hands of the person it was meant for. With so many "ugly duckling" materials wanting to become something, there are plenty of opportunities to bring about those smiles. That’s what this pendant is. An "ugly duckling" in a tuxedo =).
I made this using a hex bolt, wire, sheet metal, and a cubic zirconium stone. Everything came from the hardware store with the exception of the stone. I got that from Target.
It’s a Christmas gift for my wife. Hope she likes it.
I made this using a hex bolt, wire, sheet metal, and a cubic zirconium stone. Everything came from the hardware store with the exception of the stone. I got that from Target.
It’s a Christmas gift for my wife. Hope she likes it.
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Signing UpStep 1: Turn a hex bolt
For this instructable I used a lot of tools I’m sure most folks don’t have. However, If I didn’t have these tools I would of used my drill press, a set of hobby files, and carriage bolts.
Using a lathe, cut the sides off a hex bolt. Refine the shape with a hobby file. Next drill a hole in the head of the bolt as close to the size of the stone your setting. Once that’s done flip the bolt around and cut the threads clean off.
If necessary use a hobby file to expand the hole until the stone fits in.
Using a lathe, cut the sides off a hex bolt. Refine the shape with a hobby file. Next drill a hole in the head of the bolt as close to the size of the stone your setting. Once that’s done flip the bolt around and cut the threads clean off.
If necessary use a hobby file to expand the hole until the stone fits in.
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But I will never understand why your stuff doesn't rust. i made a butterfly and it rusted, so I had to give it away to let it silverplate, cost me 70€... and yes there even was lacquer on it.
You only mention bolt when you talk about materials and you readily solder it. Isn't that steel bolt going to rust? You didn't show a step where you painted it with clear paint to prevent rust.
Maybe you should try this with a stainless steel bolt.
How 'bout starting with a nut so that you don't have to drill the hole in the middle.
I'm amazed that the stone survived the soldering.
It looks great, though, as a proof of concept
Incidentally, what does the back of the pendant look like at the end of the process? The front looks delightful but I'd want to maybe cover the back with something flat so the coil of wire isn't exposed.