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Two different ways to create cabochons or picture jewellery.

Cabochon necklaces are a great piece of jewellery to DIY as they can easily be focused on to all sorts of different interests and looks. From geeky pictures to beautiful patterns to suit your interests or a gift recipients!

Two different ways to create cabochon necklaces

The first way is the most simple, buy a matching glass front and metal back. Together these will encapsulate a thin image.

The second way is using a metal back, you want one that is fairly deep sided, and an encapsulating liquid. This is better for chunkier entrapments.

How to create cabochon necklaces

Over the years we’ve made loads of designs. Some of them we created using glass domes with a coordinating back and some we didn’t have glass fronts for.

1. First pick your designs. If you are going to be selling the jewellery make sure to avoid material with copyrights. A good quality photo on thick paper is best. Card can be too thick to cut precisely and thin paper can go translucent with glue
2. Cut out your image, if you have a glass top you can use this to cut around otherwise we find it best to cut a rectangle bigger the backing and push the picture in. Then simply pull out and trim.
3. Glue this onto the metal back and seal into the frame. If you are using the glass domes make sure to use clear glue. If you don’t have the glass fronts a sealant such as Plain Royal Coat Dimension will add shine and seal in the picture. Some cabochon backs have sides that you can push in (with pliers etc) to hold the glass in place. 
4. To finish simply attach a jump ring and chain or ribbon necklace.