02/22 Bails: Transitions in Function and Design

Saturday, February 22, 2025
10:00 am - 1:00 pm PDT 

Instructor: Jennifer Stenhouse

There is more to a bail than just a jump ring. We will explore the form and function of the bail, and the opportunity for creating a flawless transition between pendant and chain. Using examples from the history of jewelry through contemporary solutions, Jennifer will work with you to find the best design form of unity between the two parts. We will begin with the design and search for the best method of connecting the two parts in a way that provides a secure and beautiful component. We will discuss several options starting with simple solutions to more elaborate focal points of the design. 

All classes include the video recording, which you will have access to for 60 days after the class. The Zoom link, handouts, video(s), and other important information can be found by clicking on the individual class link on the "My Courses" page. The Zoom link and handout (if any) will be available 24 hours before the class starts.

You also get 1 free session of Open Studio Access (OSA) in the month following your class, the Zoom link can be found on the course video access page.

The class supply list is below and contains links to buy the supplies you need.

Supply List for Students

The links below will take you to RioGrande.com or other suppliers. To see prices for precious metal items, you need a free Rio Grande account. Students in the Rio for Schools program enjoy wholesale benefits for six months (instructor code = RFSLMF). This site may contain Amazon and other affiliate links. If you purchase something through the link, at no cost to you, we may receive a small commission on qualifying purchases.

Recommended Materials:

A small variety of wire gauges, sheet metal and tubing profiles afford you a broader range of experience and design possibilities. You don't need a lot of material to work with. A foot or two of different wire, tubing and a few crimp beads make this easy! We will also be discussing a number of adhesives that will help connect your objects.
Listed below are options that I will be discussing and demonstrating. It is not necessary to purchase all of them to be able to work on your jewelry.

Metal options:

• Crimp beads (fits 18-20 gauge wire)
• Tubing, 2mm, one foot 
• Half round wire is a great option for making bails. The size will depend on the size of the pendant you are working with.
• Double half round wire. This is great for creating rabbit ear bails. Again the gauge depends on the size of the piece.
• 20-16ga sterling round wire. You can use other gauges, you just need to have a tube that fits the wire inside. And of course other wires an be added for decorative effect! I’ll be demonstrating with 19ga because I like it for earring wires. I will also be using the 16ga for a heavier joint demo.
• Solder – Jennifer uses easy paste solder and medium solder for most of this.
• 24g fine silver

Recommended Tools:

• Torch to solder
• Tweezers to pick up wire
• Slide gauge
• Drill of some kind
• #70 Drill bits for 22ga size hole
• Small round/ball bur (5.-1mm)
• Pin vise
• Bench pin
• Needle files
• 6” half round file
• Flush wire cutters
• Magnifiers
• Magnifier or Optivisor 

Supplies from the hardware or craft store:

• paper and pencils
• Safety glasses
• Set of small drill bits
• Pack of craft needles
• Large craft needles or tapestry needle
• Little paint brush for flux
• Emery paper
• Wet/dry emery paper, 200/400/600
• Fine sharpie