Metal Charm - add shine to your creations

In today's crafting we use different materials and textures to create interesting striking projects. I think the more diversity in our projects the better they look and we have more fun creating them. One of my favorite ways to add magical shine, interesting texture and industrial look to my creations is using metal.

Metal can be found all around us and it's easy to come by. It comes in so many shapes and sizes and fits any project you want to create. By using different metal embellishments and incorporating them in different mediums you can create different looks to your projects.

Industrial/Steampunk

3D metal man created from metal gears and clock parts

Industrial canvas with lots of metal parts and embellishments

Using metal parts with an industrial look such as gears, clock parts, cogwheels etc. can produce a steampunk look to a project. Keep the metal parts in their original color or add industrial colors such as rust, copper, black and bronze. You can get parts like this in DIY stores, garages, industrial sites or buildings as well as online stores who specialize in metal embellishments and vintage parts.

Jewelry

Triple window with jewelry parts

Jewelry pieces have unique textures and shapes and are perfect for craft projects especially 3Dcanvases or altered art. They can be added in their original color and shape or they can be altered first by coloring them or priming them. I have a box full of jewelry parts that I got at flea markets, garage sales and even some old jewelry from my grandmother.

Textured embellishments

Frame with metal buttons

Layout with metal embellishments

Sometimes you don't want metal to be the focal point or the center of your project, but the shiny look of the metal can brighten up and add a different look to your creation. It can be small metal beads or a few metal rings to add a little bling or metallic feel to a project. You can also use metal buttons for extra shine and romantic feel in a project.

Have you tried using metal in your projects?

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Have fun creating!
Einat