How to: Make a Tree of Life Pendant

I have made a Tree of Life Pendant and taken step by step photos so you can make one too! As I mentioned in a previous post that there are lots of variations. This is one of many and it's fun to experiment with the different ideas and techniques.

Here's what you'll be making! I made an oval frame and attached seed beads. Its about and inch and a half long. You can make whatever shape or size you want in any colour.

You will need:

• Pliers - you will definitely need wire cutters, round nose pliers and flat nose pliers, bent nose or chain nose pliers are handy too.

• A mandrel - this is to make your frame. You can use anything around the house of the desired shape and size. I sometimes use a shot glass for the shape for a large pendant.
• Wire - for the frame I recommend 0.8 (20 gauge), 0.9 (19) or 1.0mm (18) wire for bigger frames I'd even use 1.2mm (16). I'm using 0.9mm.
• Wire - for the tree I used 0.6mm or 22 gauge. I wouldn't recommend any thicker wire because it gets a bit tough to wrap. If you would like a more intricate tree use 0.4mm (26).
• Optional - Beads, you can add beads for interest or leave the branches bare.
• Optional but recommended - If you can, a jewellers hammer and steel block to hammer and strengthen the frame. I know a lot of people don't have this so you just need to be a bit more careful not to distort the frame, you can always use a stronger or thicker wire as a precaution.

Tree of Life Necklace

A while ago I saw these Tree of Life pendants and I think they are lovely. There are plenty of variations of it and I just had to have a go at making one. I will be posting a tutorial of how I make it soon so keep an eye out.
I think they are stunning and would suit near enough anyone. I gave one I made to my Mum for Christmas because it was right up her street. She loves it. This one is similar to the one I gave her. This one is also for sale in my Etsy shop. I love the different variations go on Etsy and type in the search bar - Tree of Life Pendant. Do you see what I mean about something for everyone?
If you want to see a tutorial on how I make one similar to the picture please comment.

Follow this link to this item on my Etsy shop!  - http://www.etsy.com/listing/92816877/tree-of-life-pendant-necklace-w-moon

Take care - Chloe Louise