Are you looking for a unique and eye-catching jewelry piece? A necklace made from a turkey spur offers a rustic, natural charm unlike anything else. This guide will walk you through the process of creating your own stunning turkey spur necklace, from sourcing the spur to adding the final touches. This isn't your average craft project; it's a chance to create something truly one-of-a-kind!
Sourcing Your Turkey Spur
The first step in making your necklace is finding a turkey spur. There are several ways to do this:
- Hunting: If you hunt turkeys, you'll have a readily available source. Always ensure you're following all applicable hunting regulations.
- Farmers and Hunters: Connect with local farmers or hunters. They may be willing to share spurs they've collected.
- Online Retailers: While less common, some online retailers specializing in crafting supplies or taxidermy may sell turkey spurs. Be sure to check reviews and seller ratings before purchasing.
Important Note: Ensure the spur is thoroughly cleaned and free of any remaining tissue or debris before you begin working with it. Proper cleaning helps prevent odor and ensures longevity. Soak in warm soapy water, then scrub gently with a soft brush.
Cleaning and Preparing the Turkey Spur
Once you have your spur, it's crucial to clean and prepare it for jewelry making. This process ensures your necklace will be both beautiful and long-lasting.
Thorough Cleaning:
- Soak: Start by soaking the spur in warm, soapy water for about 30 minutes. This helps loosen any dirt or debris.
- Scrub: Gently scrub the spur with a soft-bristled brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that could damage the spur.
- Rinse: Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
- Dry: Allow the spur to air dry completely before proceeding.
Optional: Sterilization and Preservation
For added assurance, you can sterilize the spur by boiling it in water for a few minutes. This step is optional but helpful in preventing bacterial growth. After boiling, allow it to air dry completely.
Assembling Your Turkey Spur Necklace
Now for the fun part! This section details how to assemble your unique turkey spur necklace. Remember, there are many ways to customize your design, so feel free to get creative!
Materials You'll Need:
- Cleaned and dried turkey spur
- Jewelry wire (strong and appropriate gauge for the spur's size)
- Jump rings
- Clasp (lobster clasp is a popular choice)
- Pliers (round nose and chain nose are helpful)
- Optional: Beads, charms, or other decorative elements
Step-by-Step Assembly:
- Attaching the Wire: Carefully wrap the jewelry wire around the base of the turkey spur, ensuring a secure hold. Use your pliers to create a tight loop.
- Adding Jump Rings: Attach jump rings to the wire loop at the top of the spur.
- Attaching the Clasp: Attach the jump rings to the clasp using additional jump rings.
- Adding Decorative Elements (Optional): This is your chance to personalize your necklace. Add beads, charms, or other decorative elements to enhance the design.
Pro Tip: Practice your wire wrapping technique on a scrap piece of wire before working with the spur to ensure you create secure and aesthetically pleasing loops.
Finishing Touches and Care
Once your necklace is assembled, take a moment to admire your handiwork! Here are a few final touches and care instructions to keep your turkey spur necklace looking its best:
- Inspect for Secure Connections: Ensure all connections are secure to prevent losing parts of your necklace.
- Polishing (Optional): You can use a jewelry polishing cloth to gently polish the spur and enhance its shine.
- Storage: Store your necklace in a soft cloth bag or jewelry box to protect it from scratches and damage.
- Avoid Water and Harsh Chemicals: Keep your necklace away from water, lotions, and perfumes to prevent tarnishing or damage.
Creating a turkey spur necklace is a rewarding project that allows you to showcase a unique and natural material. Remember, safety is paramount when working with sharp objects, and proper preparation ensures your necklace will be a cherished piece for years to come. Enjoy your unique piece of wearable art!
