Using Paper Patterns by Judy Freyer Thompson

by Judy Ellis, Wirejewelry.com

Wire Jewelry Tip for June 6th, 2017

The Indispensable Paper Pattern

by Judy Freyer Thompson

Plain paper, graph paper, lined paper, card stock, index cards, rice paper, parchment, sketch pads.  I feel that in this computer age there is still a need for paper.  I always make sure I have paper and a pencil with me where I go.  These are important tools when an idea either crashes or crawls into my head.  I even keep a pad of paper and sharp pencil on my bedside table; hey, you never know.  One of your best design ideas may invade a sleep deprived night.

I find index cards to be my best friend when drawing new shapes.  They are stiff enough to hold a good shape for tracing your design on to a piece of sheet metal.  After you are done tracing and cutting, the index card pattern is excellent AND reproducible.  I especially use the paper pattern to find center on a shape.  Some shapes are abstract and using a ruler you may not easily find a center point to assure a punched or drilled hole will allow the shape to hang correctly.

Sometimes the center point may need to be determined by eye and you’ll need to experiment to find the right placement for a hanging hole.  You certainly don’t want to start punching holes in the object!  That is where the paper pattern comes into play.  Using a 1.25mm Euro hole punch and a piece of wire are essential tools when you are pursuing the right balance.

Materials:
Index cards

Tools and Equipment:
Scissors
Pencil
Small piece of wire
1.25 mm Euro Punch

1. Decide what pattern or shape desired and draw out on an index card.

2. Cut out the pattern or shape.

3. Make a dot where you think a hole should be punched on the paper pattern, punch using the 1.25mm Euro Punch.

4. Slide the pattern on to a piece of wire and determine if they shape hangs to your liking.

Happy Wrapping!

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One Comment

1. 

   KaCe Whitacre

   July 9, 2017 at 9:06 pm

   Thank you for your idea. I think it makes sense and is described well.