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How to Make a Photo Pendant Necklace at Home

Contributor
By Lauren Vork
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Images of human faces have been a popular component of jewelry pendants throughout history, from the carved cameo to the hinged locket. This tradition continues today with photograph jewelry creating the greatest opportunity yet to wear a detailed likeness of our loved ones close to our hearts. With a home computer studio and a few readily available craft supplies, you can make your own simple, but elegant, photo pendant.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Stamped metal pendant setting
  • Computer with image editor, scanner and printer
  • Glossy printing paper
  • Craft glue
  • Casting resin
  • Mixing dishes and measuring cups
  • Scissors
  • Jump rings
  • Necklace chain or cord
  1. Step 1

    Measure the pendant setting and size your photo in your image editor accordingly. The best way to do this is to place the pendant setting on your scanner bed next to photo and scan both together. This will allow you to create an accurately sized oval in your image editor. For best results, use an automatic oval drafting tool (found in most editing programs, including Paint and Photoshop), create an outline over the image of the setting, and then use this as a guide to resizing your image for the best framing inside the oval shape.

  2. Step 2

    Print your resized photo on glossy paper, and then carefully cut out your picture. Be sure to print on the highest resolution.

  3. Step 3

    Glue the picture to the backing with craft glue. Use sparingly; apply just enough glue to lightly coat the back of the photo. This will prevent buckling or any running of the ink from excess moisture.

  4. Step 4

    Mix your crafting resin according to the instructions on the package. Measure carefully and stir thoroughly.

  5. Step 5

    Spoon some resin onto the face of your picture. How much you use depends on the look you want for your necklace -- you may decide to apply just enough to give the photo a hard outer layer, or you may want to use enough to make a thick, rounded bubble over the top, like a cabochon. Either way, the resin will harden in the shape and size you apply it in.

  6. Step 6

    Let the resin dry. Be sure to keep it away from any dust, and avoid touching it, as any smudges, fingerprints or foreign particles will stay in the resin when it dries.

  7. Step 7

    Thread a jump ring through the hole in the top of the setting and attach it to a chain or necklace cord.

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