Hardware Jewelry from Copper Pipe and Washers
by Carol Wofford.
(Halifax, VA)
It’s amazing what you can create from ordinary things!
This is a link bracelet I made from items that were going to be thrown away.
My uncle recently passed away and these items were in a box to be thrown out. Copper plumbing tube, steel and brass washers, rivets and more.
I took the box home and came up with this design.
First I cut the copper tube in one-inch sections, pounded it flat and textured it with my chasing hammer.
Next I textured the brass and steel washers. I started stacking the washers and found a combination I liked.
I riveted some together then used e6000 glue to adhere them to the copper.
Drilled the holes, attached jump rings and a clasp then dipped it in patina bath.
I buffed it and coated it with a sealer so it won’t turn my wrist green.
The copper tube is fairly heavy gauge and the washers add weight so it has a substantial feel to it which I like.
I also like the industrial look and since I have a lot of these items left I’m going to make another one with different combinations and I think I’m going to rivet the whole bracelet rather than use the adhesive.
I think my uncle would like the way I saved his workshop hardware from the landfill.
Carol Wofford
