Jewelry Making: Pistachio Shell Necklace

The reason I started this blog is not just my love of crafting, but because I was so inspired by others. Adventures in Dressmaking, NewDressADay, and Aunt Peaches challenged my thinking and how I look at the materials I have on hand. Aunt Peaches especially made me take a second look at things I found pretty and think of ways to use them.

One such item was Pistachio Shells.

I'm not sure why I love these little things. Maybe it's their sea shell appearance, or their smooth texture... either way I had to figure out a way  to use them.

I got an idea...

First I spray painted them a coral pink color.

Then, with my handy-dandy tools, I drilled holes in a few.

I assembled jewelry making supplies such as: Silver Chain, Pearl Beaded Chain, Accents, and Jump Rings (the little connector circles).

To start the necklace, I took two 25 in. strands of the silver chain and joined them with a jump ring.

I then hooked more jump rings through the shells and connected them to one of the chains.

The same process saw the accent leaves attached.

Then the Pearl Beaded Strand (it came to about 18 inches).

I also found a small flower buttonhole cover and decided to attach that as well, and with that, I have a lovely new necklace.

I really like how the shells remind me of flower petals.

I made two of these necklaces for something called "Pay it Forward 2011". A friend of mine on Facebook posted it as her status early this year, and the terms were the first 5 to comment would receive something homemade but in return they must each post it as their status. So two homemade items down, three to go.

I highly recommend doing this if you haven't already. It's a lot of fun and a great way to stay connected with friends and family.