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 metal! 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.
Instructions
Decide what pattern or shape desired and draw out on an index card.
Judy Freyer Thompson's The Indispensable Paper Pattern - , Wire Jewelry Design, Design, paper pattern
Cut out the pattern or shape.
Make a dot where you think a hole should be punched on the paper pattern, punch using a 1.50mm Euro Punch.
Judy Freyer Thompson's The Indispensable Paper Pattern - , Wire Jewelry Design, Design, punch a hole
Slide the pattern onto a piece of wire and determine if they shape hangs to your liking.
Judy Freyer Thompson's The Indispensable Paper Pattern - , Wire Jewelry Design, Design, slide the pattern onto a piece of wire

Materials

No materials listed

Tools

Euro Punch Plier 1.50mm
PLR-133.70
  • PLR-133.70
  • Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
  • Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
  • Price: $14.97
  • Gold Club Price: $11.23
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  • Category: Design
  • Technique(s): Design