Easy Asymmetry

by Judy Larson
Judy Larson breaks down why asymmetry can make a design feel fresh and modern. With a few simple changes, even a classic look can turn into something eye-catching and new.

This article shows how to ease into asymmetry, starting small and building confidence one piece at a time.
Asymmetric appeal

Asymmetric designs offer stunning modern edge over symmetric ones. Symmetric remains favorite and easiest.

Easing in

Start simple with one-piece earrings, gradually add pieces to build comfort.
Instant asymmetry

Choose similar shapes like teardrops that differ when flipped end-to-end.

Metal tips

Texture one side, embellish the other for appeal from all angles.
Same shape, asymmetric surfaces

Use identical shapes with varied surfaces: flip textured leaf for subtle asymmetry, or pair stamped/plain disks.

Unique disc variations

Cut holes off-center in 1" discs. Ripple edges via ring press for distinctive asymmetric pair.
Bead drop asymmetry

Use similar-sized beads in different shapes for earring drops.

Edgier variation

Vary "stick" lengths for bolder, asymmetric look.
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Instant asymmetry
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Choose similar shapes like teardrops
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, ,  Texture one side
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, ,  embellish the other for appeal from all angles
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Use identical shapes with varied surfaces
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Unique disc variations
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Bead drop asymmetry
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Use similar-sized beads
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Edgier variation
Arrange the two components completely opposite one another.
Gemstone asymmetry

Select two gemstone drops.

Metal pairing

Form two similar metal shapes. Attach one drop to a shape; pair the other drop with an opposite shape.

Position tweak

Swap gemstone drop positions for variation.

Directions for these earrings are in the Diamonds, Sapphires, and Emeralds, Oh My! tutorial.

What a difference just flipping the position of beads can make using two beads!
Multiple parts tip

Use odd-numbered sets (3, 5+) for pleasing asymmetry.

Layout strategy

Reposition parts for impact. Delay punching holes in metal until layout finalized.
What a difference rearranging the pieces can make between symmetric and asymmetric layouts!
Connected sets of wire wrapped beads and domed disks make asymmetric designs easy.
Stringing similar colors but different shapes of beads on headpins makes unique asymmetric designs.
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Arrange the two components
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Double  2
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Gemstone asymmetry
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, ,  Select two gemstone drops.
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Reposition parts for impac
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Multiple 1
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, ,  Multiple 2
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, ,  Multiple 3
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, ,  Multiple 4
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, ,  Multiple 5
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , multiple  6
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , multiple 7
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Connected sets of wire wrapped beads
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Stringing similar colors but different shapes
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, ,  Multiple 10
Design freely

Above all, PLAY! No rules just have FUN!

Focal embellishments

Experiment with varied, non-mirroring pieces that please the eye.

Capture layout

Photograph final arrangement before construction to remember placement.
Judy Larson's Easy Asymmetry  - , Inspiration, Design, , Photograph final arrangement

Materials

Sheet metal - Variety of metals and gauges
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Beads - Wide variety of shapes sizes and materials
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Cabochons
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Earring Components - include ear wire options
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Jump Rings - Variety of sizes
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Tools

Deluxe Soldering Kit
G15-5
  • G15-5
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $116.97
  • Gold Club Price: $87.73
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Basic Sawing Kit
G15-7
  • G15-7
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $34.95
  • Gold Club Price: $26.21
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WireJewelry Pro-Series Single Barrel Tumbler, Jewelry and Metal Polishing Kit, Includes 1 Pound of Jewelers Mix Shot and 8 Ounces of Shinebrite Burnishing Compound
G25-1-KITSS
  • G25-1-KITSS
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $182.60
  • Gold Club Price: $136.95
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12x12 Inch Rubber Mat
MAT-500.00
  • MAT-500.00
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $24.95
  • Gold Club Price: $18.71
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7 Piece Mini TruStrike Hammer Set with Stand
HAM-520.70
  • HAM-520.70
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $140.54
  • Gold Club Price: $105.40
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  • Category: Inspiration
  • Technique(s): Design, General Education