How to Make a Copper Bead

Copper is a metal with a rich color. Copper beads are increasingly popular for jewelry making. This tutorial will explain how to make copper beads from copper pipes.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Copper pipe
• Tube cutting jig or pipe cutter
• Jewelry making tools

1. Gather your tools and materials. Be sure your copper pipe is straight. If it is not, correct the shape of the pipe be forming it with your jewelry making tools until the pipe is straight. Note that you may need to anneal the metal with a torch from time to time as you work.

2. Once the pipe is straight, measure one inch from the end of the copper pipe. Mark the metal. Cut the pipe with your jewelry saw and tube cutting jig or with your pipe cutter.

3. File and sand the end of the pipe until it is smooth and suitable for use as jewelry.

4. Repeat to create the next bead. Note that you can vary the size of the beads; simply measure a different length before marking and cutting.

5. Polish the copper to a high shine or create a scratch of brush finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Beads made from copper pipe can be covered with enamel and fired using a torch or a jewelry kiln for a vary interesting look.

Resources

• GeltDesigns
• Tutorials by GeltDesigns