Introduction: Teardrop Pendant
Valentine's Day is just around the corner.
Step 1: Flatten a Nickel
Step 2: Cut the Shape Out
Step 3: Convex the Shape
Find a piece of wood. Then find a convex shape. In this case I used the ball section from the spindle of a headboard. You could use a spoon or the head of a carriage bolt too.
Take the convex shape and place it on the piece of wood. Use a moderate blow with a hammer to indent the wood with the convex shape. I rubbed black crayon on the depression to show you guys how the wood took on the shape.
Once that is done, take your cut piece and place it between the wood and your convex tool. Use a moderate blow with a hammer. Keep at it until the metal becomes convex. It should only take a few blows.
Step 4: Shape
Step 5: Form the Eyelet
Next, shape the eyelet into the teardrop.
Step 6: Soften the Edges
Sand or file the edges down. This helps the teardrop look more like a droplet and less like a hammered nickel.
I used a sanding disc on my drill press but you could use a file, sand paper, or rotary tool.
Step 7: Polish
Move to 2000 grit sand paper to further smooth it out.
Finish with a polishing wheel and polishing compound.
Step 8: Gift It
Happy Valentine's Day, Birthday, Mother's day or just because.