10 January 2009

Custom Sterling Silver Rims

The reason it took me awhile to start working on my beaded motorcycle project was because I had ordered custom parts for it, and I had to wait to get them! So, yesterday, I took a ride to Beaucoup Beads in Scituate Harbor to pick up some rims!
Check them out:

beaded Buell X1 Lightning Harley bead embroidery beadwork pop art fabric art silver rims wheels
Felt foundation for a beaded motorcycle. 10"wide x 6".

These hammered sterling silver rings were created by Erin, a metalsmith who works at the bead shop. I had noticed that she had made some of these rings in various sizes for the shop, but I needed a larger size. So, I asked her to create 3 custom-sized rings for this piece - the 3 largest ones! I think she did a great job! The largest in the set measures about 2.25" in diameter, and the smallest is 0.5". I will admit that I was a bit worried when I picked them up... but, now that I see them, I think I can make them work! :D

The other metal parts you see in this photo would actually be a shock absorber on a real bike (I think!). I didn't know what I was planning to use for that, but it had to be cylindrical. So I went to the hardware store and found 2 tension pins! I have no idea what these are actually intended for, but they are the perfect size for this part! Now, I must figure out how to attach them to beadwork & felt... And, how will I suspend the wheel components so that they look like they are inside the tire? Wish me luck! :o

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16 comments:

KayzKreationz said...

Looks like it will turn out great. Can't wait to see it finished.

Bev's Jewelry said...

Those rings work! I really like Beaucoup Beads. Just wish they were closer. It takes a long time to get to Situate from here even though Rt 123 is very close.
Your project is coming right along.
Bev

Daniel Fisher Works said...

That is really cool - great work!

BlueTerracotta said...

Wow, so intricate! Do you look at real motorcycles or photos as a reference, or do you ride one?

abeadlady said...

No doubt in my mind that you will figure out how to solve those problems, LB. Great start.

Arline

sassyglassdesigns said...

This is going to be so cute.

The Lone Beader said...

Thanks for the comments! No, I don't ride a bike, but I like to look at pics of them. This is actually inspired by my friend's Buell, but it will in no way be a replica. LOL

Beadin' Gram/aka Jackie said...

YIPPEE, another project.
Don't know which I enjoy more, LB, the finished piece or reading along with your progress --- thanks for letting us hop on for the ride.

~Jackie~

tournesol said...

Your beadwork is really great. Love the dogs and cats and peacock. I am inspired to try some of the things I have been thinking about. Great website.

Mary Timme said...

Don't you love working out stuff like the "how to's?" That is my favorite part because it really stretches us. I know you can do it.

Robin said...

This one pleases the dickens out of me! The rings (rims) look great as does the cylinder gizzmo. Ha! I love it!

Robin (biker babe) A.

The Lone Beader said...

Thanks everyone!!! And, Robin, I knew this project would get your attention! ;)

Ruela said...

Born to be wild!


lovely.

jams o donnell said...

Wow, I'm sure that the silver will really enhance the beadwork LB

Mo said...

You have excelled this time. This work is fantastic!

Alexandria said...

- ooo looking forward to see the finished work here.

I love motorcycles!

Do you ride?