Scrabble Tile Pendant Tutorial
I’m excited to share this tutorial for Scrabble Tile Pendants from Mark and Stefani at HomeStudio. They’ve so graciously provided this how-to for making these lovely pendants to all of us crafters. These pendants are great for necklaces, charms, and gifts to give. To purchase these pendants with HomeStudio’s one of a kind designs, please visit their Etsy shop.
Scrabble Tile Pendant Tutorial
Supplies needed: · Paper · Scrabble Tiles · Scissors · Craft Glue · Metal File · Mod Podge · Small Paint Brushes · Utility Knife · Diamond Glaze · Super Glue · Small Aanraku Jewelry Bails in Silver
Step 1:
Choose your paper wisely! I use a template card, a little template on an index card with a hole the size of a scrabble tile. That way when I shop for paper, I can see if the pattern will fit the tile. You can use almost
any paper you find; scrapbook paper, card stock, Japanese Washi paper, origami paper, gift wrap, even lightweight recycled greeting cards. Everything will become a possibility, so experiment. Using a light box (or holding your paper to the window), use your template card and trace the pattern for your tile. Trim the paper about a 3/4” to 1/2” around your outline. Allow enough excess paper so you can hold the paper while spreading the glue.
Step 2:
Using a paint brush and your light box, “paint” a thin layer of glue (I use Tacky Glue) onto the back of your paper. Place your tile in the box, being sure to notice which way is up so your letter isn’t upside down when you’re finished. I like using a thin glue.
Step 3:
After about 10-20 minutes your glue should be dry. Using a utility knife, carefully trim around the outside of the tile being careful not to cut the tile in the process. The wood is pretty soft.
Step 4:
Gently file the edges of the paper to be smooth and flush with the side of the tile. Since the wood is soft, be careful not to file too hard. You may want to experiment with different types of metal files in order to find the one you like best. The one I use is a medium grit file.
Step 5:
Now you need to seal the paper. Use a paint brush to apply a thin layer of Mod Podge. I like to seal the top and all sides. Let that dry for 10-20 minutes. I like to lay my tiles on wax paper so the glue doesn’t stick to my work surface. A cookie sheet lined with wax paper works perfectly!
Step 6:
Once the Mod Podge is dry, it is time to apply the Diamond Glaze. Do NOT shake the glaze. First, I like to make a little dot on my wax paper. The first dot usually has a bubble & I’d rather have it on the wax paper than on my tile. Holding the bottle at an angle, apply the glaze around the edges and then fill in the middle. Be sure to get close to the edges. The glaze shouldn’t roll off the edge, but in case it does, just file it off when the whole thing is dry. If you get a bubble, which will happen, just use your fingernail to pull it off the tile. You can use a needle, but I find that is harder to do. Diamond Glaze is water soluble, so it just washes off with soap and water. Now let your tile dry for a minimum of 4 hours. Dry your tile in a cool place where it won’t get bumped by anyone.
UPDATED:
I let mine to fully cure 3 days before packaging it. The glaze manufacturers may suggest less time but to be safe, plan on 3 days.
Step 7:
Now attach the silver bail. Hold the bail with your fingers, put a drop or two of glue and hold the tile in place. I like to use Super Glue because then it’s stuck “forever”! The only down side, is that if the bail isn’t exactly centered, it’s tricky to remove. In seconds, it’s attached and ready to go!
Step 8:
Now to clean up any rough edges. Get your metal file again and smooth down any rough edges and excess glue. Now you’re finished! Enjoy your pendant.
© 2008, HomeStudio. All rights reserved. Use of designs, images, or content without permission is prohibited. Please contact homestudio111{at}gmail.com for permission of use. Please feel free to use this tutorial for personal use and have fun crafting!
{ 354 comments… read them below or add one }
this is just a darling idea. thank you for posting a tutorial!
I’m heading to Michael’s now to pick up the supplies I don’t have so I can try this out. thanks for sharing!!
Oh, one question, do you buy the scrabble tiles somewhere or just use them from an old game?
Katie,
If you go on the Hasbro Customer Service website, http://www.hasbro.com/customer-service/ , there is a link to where you can buy replacement parts. All you have to do is fill out the form for whichever game you need, in this case it would be Scrabble, and you can get as many pieces as you want without buying the whole game.
A fellow curious web surfer,
Katherine
P.S.
They come in packs of 100. (U.S. or Canada)
Thanks for the heads up on tiles
THANK YOU! That Hasbro replacement parts link will help me more than you will ever know! RG
Michael’s sells those tiles too! (In the wood section, usually by the Lara’s crafts)
Katie – From my experience, I know people who’ve purchased a new game set and then had tons of necklaces to make. I’ve also heard of people looking at thrift stores or garage sales for the Scrabble game. I actually wonder if anyone is still playing the game or just making fun crafts!
I agree that this is a great earring idea! And Marie – there are DEFINITELY people still playing it, check this out: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Scrabble_Championship
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Word_Freak_(book)
:)
Thanks for the great idea. I just used it tonight as a craft activity for the MOPS (mothers of preschoolers) group I lead and it’s an understatement to say it was a HUGE hit!
As a side note, I was not able to easily find Diamond Glaze, but a found another product called “Triple Thick” at Joann which seemed to work well as a substitute.
As an answer to the question about the tiles, I was able to order them from Hasbro. Search around on the website for replacement tiles. There were also several postings on Ebay.
I’m new to your website and absolutely love it – thank you!
You can order just the tiles from Hasbro.
They are fairly cheap.
Like 5-6 bucks for a bag of them.
They have wood & onyx ones. :o)
http://www.hasbro.com/default.cfm?page=cs_parts
Wonderful tutorial can’t wait to try it be a great gift.
hugs ginger
The paper you used is gorgeous! Where do you find it? I have several stacks and none of it is as cute and vibrant as yours. My favorite is the pink one with two owls :)
Thanks!
As a paper and scrabble lover. This post rocks. I will be adding a little flair to my scrabble board.
When using the Diamond Glaze, how much should we use? I checked to see if the tile had dried a day after I put the glaze on, and it looks dry but makes dents on the glaze if I poke it. Any suggestions?
Nina Jay – It’s hard to answer how much glaze to use. But let me tell you how I put it on… I go around the edges first and then fill in the center. Then I add another squeeze in the middle. I let my pendants dry for 2 days before I send them out – 3 if it’s humid. Even now, if I push my fingernail into the glaze, it’ll leave a dent. Even pendants I made a few weeks ago will still leave a dent from my nail.
If there is a dip in the center of the pendant when it’s dry, then try using more glaze. If it’s milky in the center, try using a little less.
Hope this helps. :) Please feel free to contact us if you have any other questions.
Stef & Mark
has anyone used …. ice liquid – have a whole new bottle waiting to be used
hatty
Thank you so much! FYI…I picked up Scrabble today at the Goodwill for $1.99. I can’t wait to get to work on making these as holiday gifts!
thanks so much! i’ve designed graphics for pendants and have been wanting to try making pendants too! this is just what i needed! :)
I just finished making a couple of pendants and they are still sitting there wet but looking really good so far.
I went to and/or called three different large art/craft store and was unable to lay my hands on diamond glaze…no one had ever even heard of it. Not wanting to order it on the net and have to wait I used a clear bar-coat type material that dries to a very hard glass-like finish. It’s the stuff they use on bar tops to make it smooth and shiny. It’s by Enviro-tex and it’s a two part mix so it’s a pain to clean up the tools afterward but it’s nice and thick so you can push it right to the edge of the tile without it glopping over.
Also a couple of other tips I found. I used index cards as my “drop cloth”, one for each scrabble pendant, and stuck the scrabble tile to it with REMOVABLE double sided tape (make sure you don’t use the “permanent”). then I drew a little arrow indicating which side of the tile was up since I couldn’t see the letter side anymore. If you get a good stick with the tape it gives you AWESOME leverage for maneuvering the tile and being able to pick it up easily without getting your fingers in the mod podge or in the resin. Also I used a pen to write down on it when i put on the resin so I will know how long it’s been on there without having to remember! :) The index cards also make a good solid white backdrop if you want to draw a design for you pendant or use stickers.
Another thing I came up with is if you have to mix your own resin, use a dropper (i found mine in the cake decorating isle at Hobby Lobby) to squeeze the mix onto the tile. This gives you the same control that you get from that pointy tip on the Diamond Glaze bottle, and it wasn’t as hard to clean out as I thought it would be. Make sure not to be shy about pushing the resin or whatever all the way to corners of the tiles, i can already see that I didn’t make QUITE to the edge of the corner on one of mine…no one else in the whole wide world would ever notice it, but i see it and it’s starting to bug me lol. As long as you are using a thick compound and being careful, you won’t push it over the side.
Those are darling. They remind me of the charms that have fun poetry and old fashioned pictures on them. They sell them, along with the really long key chain metal necklaces at boutique shops. They also have initials in fun fonts on the tiles. I don’t think you will ever run out of ideas for your blog; my clever daughter-in-law!! :)
This is great! Thanks so much. Not sure I’ll have the patience, but deft. going to visit her Etsy shop! :) Thanks again.
AWESOME tut! I was wondering what type of paper you use? Do you use anything special? If I am printing images from my computer would regular computer paper work?
These are clever and cute! I have so many scrabble tiles to actually do this with! Thanks for posting.
Thank you so much for this! I have been eyeing these necklaces for a while now. I love how graphic they are! These will make great gifts because they are homemade, but don’t look very homemade.
I just love those scabble tile pendants. I am going to try my hand on those and give them to my nieces… Great job!!!
This is a GREAT tutorial. I can also speak from experience that Home Studio’s pendants are beautiful and very well done. I recently bought 3 of them, 1 for myself and 2 for gifts, and I’m going to go back and probably buy some more later!
Corinna http://www.myscrapbooklife.com
I have a collection and passion for necklaces. this is fantastic.I have 3 little daughters that I want to make these for. plud great teacher gifts…if I don’t make them I have to buy them!!thanks so much for the tutorial I am a wee bit crafty but some in blog land are incrediable that I feel a bit untalented!
Great tutorial! I am a visual learner and really appreciate all your photos and step-by-step instructions. Thanks!
Thanks SO much for the tutorial! Now my daughter can make personalized gifts for ALL her friends this Christmas without breaking the budget!!
Hi
I love these pieces. I have a few questions.
1. Do you leave the letter for the back?
2. I can’t find Diamond Glaze or Triple Thick.. not at Michaels or Jo Anns.. is there anything else? I looked at everything and it nothing seemed right to me.
3. I cannot find the bails you show here at either store. I assume they are silver. Where do you get yours?
THanks
I can’t wait to make some!
why not put the paper over the letter side, so the back is just plain wood?
You won’t find the bails in any stores you would have to order it online i got mines on ebay, it’s quite expensive. You can find triple thick at hobby lobby, it’s like 3 bucks for the small one and 5 for the big one. I just started doing this and it’s super easy! I find that if you are handy with a exacto you can just mod prodge the tile to your paper and cut around the edges! I didn’t use special mod prodge i just used the regular one.
These make excellent rings!
You can get diamond glaze online too… it’s like 6 bucks. (ebay)
I’m having a Bloggy Open House tomorrow and I was wondering if I could use this post for a Make and Take. I would link back to you.
Has anyone ever used fabric instead of paper? I have some gorgeous scrap fabrics that I would like to use but I was unsure if this would work with the Diamond Glaze.
Thanks in advance!
Do your images ever go blurry? I read somewhere to use clear nail polish to seal it first. Does anyone know if it will yellow? When I use Mod Podge I was getting some bleeding or a blurry effect after a few days. Any pointers?
Thanks!
Hi there!
I made a ton of scrabble tiles last night and woke up this morning to see that the paper had lifted from the sides of the tiles (on every one!). I used everything listed above for materials but replaced the Diamond Glaze with Ranger’s Glossy Accents. I had used it before with other tiles but for some reason this did not happen then. Please advise — how do I get the paper to stick to the tile without lifting?
Thank you so much for the help that anyone can provide!!! :)
Hi again everyone,
For those who have used Envirotex Lite, does that bubble???
Thanks,
Monica
This is a wonderful idea! I was so excited, so I instantly put a wanted request on freecycle and within a few days I received a broken box and board with tiles from someone who was going to throw it away! Off to go purchase the other items and get started on this amazing idea! I think this will be a great teacher gift, gift for distant friends that you never know what to get them and a small gift for someone you want to get something but never know what!!! :)
Thanks for the idea! I love your blog! Creative people are so inspiring!!!
Hi everyone! We are thrilled that you are all having so much fun making pendants. Are you all ready to come help us during the Christmas rush??!! :)
We’ve had a few questions that I’d like to answer here.
Q: Where do you find the glaze?
A: There are several places online that carry Diamond Glaze. http://www.ornamentea.com has some good prices or http://www.joann.com usually has it in stock.
Q: Lifting corners?
A: I place heavy cutting board or even a stapler on the back of the tile as the glue is drying. Just be careful that the tile doesn’t shift as you place your heavy object on it…otherwise the image won’t be centered. Sometimes a tile will be old and slick from wear. That will sometimes effect the glue & make it difficult to stick. I like using newer tiles – just my preference.
Q: Where do you find the bails?
A: There are several sellers on Etsy who sell Aanraku bails. Just type “Aanraku bails” into the search bar of Etsy.com and be sure to search under supplies.
It’s fun to personalize the pendants with the letter on the back. Just know that the bail sometimes hides a lot of the letter.
Hope that helps out some. Please let me know if you have other questions. Thank you!!
I just finished the Diamond Glaze step. I removed all bubbles during the application and returned to find there are now lots of tiny bubbles in the drying resin. Can I fix? Or what can I do next time to prevent bubbles from appearing after the fact?
I love this tutorial too!! I just “stole” 5 tiles from our family Scrabble game (don’t tell hubby!) to try it out and I love the results. I also used Triple Thick from Michaels and it worked fine. I used a different kind of bail that I bought at Michaels…I reshaped it to fit on the tile correctly. They were a whole lot cheaper than the nicer ones sold on ebay etc. I did have a lot of problem getting the super glue to hold it on, though. I have heard E6000 works better…anyone tried it?
Thanks again for a great tute!
Nicole
I have done the E6000 but it is a lot longer process… you have to coat both pieces then let them dry then put together to adhere. It also stinks. But, it does work well.
PS… gorilla glue expands which DOES NOT WORK!
Karen
I too was wondering about the great paper that you guys have. Where did you get it at because I’m not able to find that neat of paper at the scrapbook store. Thanks!
I love this idea and what a great find just in time for the holidays. I am going to gather all the supplies and make some of these as well but do have one question…
Has anyone tried to personalize these with creative lettering after the paper is applied to the tile and if so what is the best way to do that?
Any help or ideas that anyone has would be great. Thanks!
Just an FYI for ya….I was at Michaels today and found a whole pack of scrabble letters for $4.00. There are probably 50 or so in the pack. I also got some cute round ones with a letter on the back. The round ones have an adhesive backing, so they are cute as magnets too (these were near the woodworking isle).
Also, I could not find the Diamond Glaze, but found one made by Aleene’s called “paper glaze” for $4.00 (2 oz). I just put it on to some tiles I made yesterday, so hopefully I will know in the morning how they turn out. So far it looks like the right stuff.
Michaels also had some “silver” bails, 10-pack for $3.00. They are really cute with some black detail on them too. What fun!
I couldnt find any diamond glaze and was in a pinch so i decided to put a thick layer of tacky glue on. It actually worked pretty well.
Make sure to check out comment #34 for a few answers to questions. They come from Stefani the creator of the tutorial.
I checked Joann.com and they sell bails online only for $1.49 each. There are 2 different sizes available in silver color and 1 size available in gold color.
I just checked JoAnn.com again today (Friday, 11/29) and the bails are down to $1.04 each and they are offering free shipping, no minimum purchase until 12/06 with code SCD001.
Does anyone else have a problem with their ink bleeding? I printed some clip art on both matte photo paper and regular white paper. It bled a lot more with the white paper. I’m using an inkjet printer. Do you think it might be that?
Love the tutorial, by the way!
Debbie –
Yes, the ink is bleeding because of the inkjet printer. I would suggest using laser print paper, and then setting the ink with an iron. You don’t actually iron the paper, just run the paper with printed side up over an iron so that the heat from it sets the ink.
Laser ink does not bleed because it is set this way.
The photo paper binds the ink more because people don’t want photos to bleed either, so they but chemicals on the paper to make it stay longer.
in response to baileytwinsmom:
I have personalized them, I used the paper and on top of that I use a sticker initial in the middle, I also put lil colored rhinestones on them. I suggest putting the sticker letter on before Mod Podge. If you are going to put rhinestones, decide where you want them 1st then use the mod Podge then immediately put the rhinestones on, so they stick.
I made the mistake of putting mod Podge 1st then the sticker, then I had to go back and put mod podge to get the rhinestones on. It was tedious.
But the end result was great! I wish I could post pics on here.
I have also had the problem of leaving dents in the finish even after it is “dry”. Is there any way to remedy this? Thanks for any help.
In no way asking where you find your photos for the tiles. But, how or where do I go about finding ones? I am at a loss.
Angelia – The designs for the tiles on this tutorial are from Home Studio, the creators of this tutorial. Go to http://www.homestudio.etsy.com
I just blogged about this awesome idea!
http://michellesjournalcorner.blogspot.com/2008/12/handmade-gift-wood-pendant-necklace.html
I used round discs and bails I found at Michaels ( I was too impatient to wait for the ones to ship from online!)
I ended up purchasing a scrabble game at Toys r us on sale for 7.99 (which is what it would have been with shipping had I bought them online)
Does anyone know what the best software to use is for digital photos for these tiles. I know people are selling the collage on etsy. I would like something that allows me to set the parameters of the photo size so I can load the pics and it does the work for me. Instead I am having to waste paper and ink to keep adjusting and I never get it right.
I decided not to fudge around with my inkjet printer anymore, so I purchased a Samsung laser. But I’m having problems with the lines on the art not being very crisp. I didn’t have this problem with my inkjet. Any advice, suggestions, etc . . . ? Thanks much in advance.
If you go to etsy.com they have a shop on there that is called “Sun and Moon” that has microglaze which is for inkjet printings so that they do not run anymore. =) you can also go to http://www.microglaze.com.
@Debbie: My suggestion is to make sure you are using a print resolution of 300dpi for the best image quality.
But if you aren’t familiar with print resolution keep in mind that when you change something over to 300dpi it’s going to print much smaller so you will want to start with a bigger graphic. I don’t fully understand all the ins and outs but you will get the idea if you play around with printing the same image at different resolutions.
@Joni: I use the Gimp for all graphic stuff. It’s free and it’s plenty feature rich for something like this.
Thanks Melbell. I do use clip art at a resolution of 300dpi. I returned the laser and am sticking with my inkjet as I get better results. I’m still dealing with bleeding.
Melissa, thanks for the suggestion about printing on laser paper and setting the ink using an iron. I did that the other day and it seemed to work! Then I did it again with a different color clip art and the colors ran after applying the Mod Podge. They don’t run much, but enough that I don’t like it.
Oh well, back to the drawing board.
@ Debbie…hmmm I wouldn’t think the laser printer would still bleed. I don’t have a printer so I just go to Kinkos when I need something printed and whatever they print with doesn’t bleed at all on me. i wonder if it has to do with the paper or something.
Thank you! I’ve had this in my idea book for a long time, but now I have a firm grasp of what to do. Plus I’ve got great ideas for all the “tweens” on my gift list this year!
I’ve been experimenting with these as well. I have had some luck with pre-spraying printed images with Krylon spray. If I spray both sides before I mod podge them to the tile, the image is staying quite a bit clearer. I let each side dry for about 15 minutes before working with it.
I have also been using my dremmel to drill little holes in the tops and using the little nickel eye screws to hang them.
Have any of you guys had any problems with the Mod Podge causing the paper to sort of wrinkle up at the edges? I don’t have any problems if I use card stock paper because it doesn’t give into the moisture in the mod podge as much.
I suspect that they aren’t drying fast enough because my house is so stinking cold this time of year. It’s not a big deal to use the card stock but it won’t work if I find a really cool origami paper or something of that weight to use.
I need to do some experiments with just putting like a heavy book down on them so they dry flat but I’m quickly running low on scrabble tiles and resin!! :)
I just went back and read some of the posts that I missed before.
@Monica in post number 32 (if you are still tuned into this program): I use Envirotex Lite for my pendants. It DOES bubble. But carbon dioxide cleans those bubbles right up.
**WARNING** What I am about to say is not safe in any way, shape, or form…but it’s what I do lol. But there’s my disclaimer.
I let the envirotex sit for about 5 minutes, this is when most of the bubbles surface. Then take a drinking straw, aim it at the tile, and exhale…not really blow…but more like just sorta breathe through the straw onto the tiles. Remember, it’s not the rushing air that pops the bubbles, it’s the carbon dioxide. Then I breathe on it again after 30 more minutes, and then a third time after another hour to make sure. The packaging recommends doing this by passing a lit flame close the the surface but harsh chemicals plus fire sounds like a big insurance claim to me :)
If you do decide to go against all our better judgment and use the straw, just remember NEVER to inhale through the straw…that’s probably the fastest way to get those horrible fumes channeled directly to your brain cells short of drinking the stuff right out of the cup…please be careful. This stuff is awesome but it is a potent chemical compound and must be handled as such.
That being said, I have taken to just using disposable tools and just throwing them away after each batch of tiles. I found some paper measuring cups on ebay, a popsicle stick to stir, and a $1 eye dropper type thing for dispensing.
@NCJill in post 38: The first thing I bought was the Aileene’s Paper Glaze because I figured it sounded like the perfect thing. But I just couldn’t get it to dry. I let it sit on the tile for more than 24 hours and in a coat that thick it was still WET to the touch…so I gave up on it. I hope you had better luck.
Also to everyone using Diamond Glaze, I can’t directly speak to this because I passed on trying it out. But I have read some people who use it say that it completely fails if exposed to even the tiniest amount of water, like rain. Has anyone using Diamond Glaze experienced this problem? I guess the theory is that since it’s water soluble, exposure to water can sort of erode it away.
I made these for craft shows and yes, I had problems. If they get wet, they’re trash! I took some to the Farmer’s Market too and they got wet in the rain and got frosty looking. I had to throw them away.
Just another hint to help people deal with bubbles in their glaze. When a pin seems too thin to be of any help or when you just aren’t in the mood to chase those little bubbles around, try using an eye pin. Not the straight end. Use the circle of the little eye to lasso and grab the bubbles to pull them to the edge. If you are careful and don’t move around too quickly, you can easily do it without running the glaze over the edge.
..and just a footnote to post 61. Yes, last night, I experienced my first water spot problem with my diamond glaze. Just a single drop of moisture on a cured tile caused a dull spot to form even with an almost instant attempt to blot it up (without even wiping)
I guess resin is the way to go but not having used it before, it seems like it would be such a mess to work with. And it’s so easy to just pick up the bottle of diamond glaze and squirt and direct the flow. After mixing a batch of resin, can it also be poured into a similar type of bottle for application to a tile? Would that bottle then have to be thrown out or can it be stored for any amount of time? It just seems like there is potential for a lot of waste using resin and possibly mixing too much at a time.
Can somebody help out a resin rookie here?
What a fun project! I think I will invited some friends and try it out. THanks
Thanks for the tutorial. I made a bunch of these, using resin – some pictures up at flickr – http://www.flickr.com/photos/tamdoll/sets/72157603900798500/.
I ran into some trouble with the resin the 2nd time around, found online tips for how to do it better next time. Now all I need is a great source for unique teeny tiny images & I’ll keep making them!
@ Quelyn in post 63:
I will probably never use anything other than the resins now. It is a bit of waste, but to me the superb results make up for it. And clean up is easy if you just allow yourself to throw the tools away. You CAN clean the stuff up. For example, the Envirotex can be cleaned up while still wet using rubbing alcohol. But honestly if you try to do this, you won’t want to use the resin because it’s a pain and to me the fumes from the alcohol are worse than the ones from the resin. I use a marked paper mixing cup to measure into, a popsicle stick to stir for a full two minutes (vigorously), and then I just use an eyedropper from the cookie decorating aisle at the craft store to suck it up and dispense it right onto the pendants. I end up throwing away the cup, stick, and eyedropper but actually with patience, a pipe cleaner, and a crap-load of rubbing alcohol the eye dropper isn’t really that hard to clean up and reuse. But you will know the next day if you didn’t get it all off because it will be tacky or gluey feeling to touch.
I have found this method to be pretty reasonable and at like 15 bucks for 50 cups, and $1 per eyedropper, it’s really not that expensive…unless of course you are only doing one pendant at a time. If you are only doing one at a time you will want to find a way to measure out much less of the resin (Envirotex is just a one-to-one resin to hardener so I’m pretty sure you can mix as little as you want) and you won’t want to blow $1 per pendant on the eyedropper. If I was going to do a huge batch like maybe 50 pendants I would actually buy a squeeze bottle with a fine tip for that size of project and then just throw that away.
As for storing, it will set up hard in the cup overnight, so I would say don’t leave it for more than 15-20 minutes or I think it would start to gel up and you would lose not only pourability but also finish quality. I don’t know for sure because I have never let it sit out for a while.
But one thing, if you go the disposable cup or bottle method, do not throw it away while the resin is still liquid. For one if it pours out in the trash and leaks out of the bag you will be in a world of mess, and also as it’s setting it puts off heat and it needs to be able to dissipate. I let mine sit in the cup on my table overnight and throw it away the next day.
My honest recommendation would be to find the smallest size of Envirotex Lite that they sell and a cup or something that you don’t mind throwing away and just trying a few pendants. If you don’t like it or if it doesn’t turn out well you will be out a few bucks, but then you will know if it’s a workable solution for you.
To me the Diamond Glaze is not an option because even just washing your hands could cause water to splash up or if it’s raining or anything…say goodbye to your beautiful pendant.
Also, I ran out of Envirotex Lite and the next one I bought to try is the Easy Cast clear casting epoxy. It will probably be quite similar to the Envirotex but I will definitely post once I get a chance to use it.
I gave pendants tonight to all the girls at work for Christmas presents and already two of them have commissioned me to make them for their daughters for Christmas. So within a couple of days I will be making some more pendants. :)
This is a great tutorial. Thank you for sharing. I have made quite a few of these and have run into some problems with the ink bleeding really bad. I have an inkjet printer. I’ve tried setting my clipart images with an iron and I still get a lot of bleeding. Can anyone tell me the best paper to use? Can the creators of this tutorial tell me if they use a laser or inkjet printer? Your artwork is so crisp and very clear. Any help is appreciated.
Hi there! Looks like everyone is having fun making these pendants.
I see there are a few questions on the ink bleeding. If you use an ink jet printer, the ink will bleed. What you can do is spray your images after they dry with a sealer. In the past, we have used a (non-water based) furniture sealer. It’s pretty toxic, so watch the fumes. After that dries, you’ll want to use a THIN layer of Mod Podge to set the image. I haven’t tried the iron technique – good idea!
If you use a laser printer, the bleeding won’t be an issue. We use a high quality laser printer. We have also found that thicker paper (cover stock and card stock) work better than regular printer paper if you are printing your own images.
Hope that helps. Have fun creating cute pendants!
For Ink Bleeding inquiries, please read comment #65 from Stefani, the owner of this Scrabble Tile Tutorial. Thanks Stef!!
For Diamond Glaze users – what about spraying the pendant with a spray varnish after the diamond glaze is dry? (Something like Krylon or Kamar) I wonder if that might make it resistant to water?
I have my supplies ordered, can’t wait to try these!
I am interested in getting started with these, but has anyone figured out how to put hole through tile to insert pin, rather than glueing on a bail?
Re: inkjet prints bleeding, I just tested mine with Mod Podge and NO bleeding whatsoever…I’m using REALLY good paper though – Arches Infinity (a museum quality archival watercolor inkjet paper) so differences in paper might be the issue. It’s the same paper I use for my art prints…I’m shrinking down some of my artwork for pendants.
I’ve been using the diamond glaze and have also tried Triple Thick. The problem I’m having is that even when the glaze sets for days, it still seems to get marked up easily. I tried wrapping some for gifts, but having tissue or cotton pressed up against the glazed tile, marks up the pendant and they look awful. :( Anyone else noticed this problem? I just can’t figure out how to remedy this and I’m sick over it because I’ve made tons for x-mas gifts. Now I don’t know what to do to wrap them without them getting marked up.
Please allow your glazes to cure for 3 days before wrapping them. Even though the manufacturers suggest less time, we’ve learned longer is better. We will make this update to the tutorial.
Thanks,
Mark+Stef
My pendants that were getting marked up, had set for well over a week. So, I don’t think the drying time is the problem. I was using that cotton stuff that comes in jewelry boxes as a buffer between the pendant and the box, but even this light cotton left marks on the pendant. Per suggestion by HomeStudio, I’m going to try using a clear coat of nailpolish over the glaze after several days of setting or try using glue dots to adhere my pendant to the box so I don’t have to have any cotton/tissue rubbing up against the pendant. I’m still concerned about the delicate nature of the glaze. Seems like even if I find a way around the packing issue, the person wearing the necklace isn’t always going to be so careful. They could set it down on something and it will easily scuff.
Well…I made a new batch. This time with the Easy Cast clear casting epoxy. I made 34 pendants and it seems about 15 of them aren’t ruined. It took me too long using my eyedropper and the stuff started to gel up on me from sitting for so long. I think it was about 20 minutes. I will have to remember to only do small batches of 10 or so at a time or do get a squeeze bottle which should make it go much faster.
After it got gooey it was a little tougher to get dispensed onto the pendant because it didn’t flow as well, but the real problem was that the consistency of it kept the bubbles from degassing themselves and they just set in the pendants. *sigh* Lesson learned the hard way.
The Easy Cast and Envirotex Lite are made by the same company and work in the same exact way, but the Easy Cast seemed less…fume-y. Less toxic maybe? I don’t know. I will probably just go with whatever costs less because either way the tools have to be thrown away after because I’m too lazy to try and clean them all up.
One thing I did notice to make a difference. Definitely heed the curing temperature recommendations. I usually do mine on a table in the basement next to my computer desk but my basement is really cold this time of year. So I didn’t them on the kitchen counter this time and they seemed to set a lot faster. They are still curing but they were actually soft set within several hours (overnight basically).
I bought some Triple Thick to see how it did but I saw all those bubbles and thought, “man…what a pain to pop all those.” Does anyone know of an easy way to debubble the Triple Thick and also how does it hold up to water splashing? Does it hate water like the Diamond Glaze? I’m guess that anything that says “non-toxic” is not going to hold up as well as an actual resin but I really don’t know.
I just purchased a used Spanish version of Scrabble at a thrift store and got 102 scrabble tiles for just 99 cents plus tax….. what a deal…. before moving here from Calif., I found a couple games at the thrift stores for 99 cents as well….. $2 or $3 for a used game is great considering how many tiles you get. The Spanish version just had some extra letters that you don’t get in the English version, such as the N with the squiggly on top and the double R’s…..
These make great keychains as well or even zipper pulls for the kids’ backpacks and coats………
Thank you for the tutorial, I was having a time of it with my puzzle pieces but this will make me feel better about tackling the tiles!!
We personally don’t do Resin but thought this might help those who want to try it. Here is a good video tutorial about using Resin by John W. Golden
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BAEKnv0OU08
For questions about Resin, watch the video suggested by Home Studio on comment #75!
I do NOT recommend Aileene’s Paper Glaze or the Triple Thick brush on. I haven’t tried any of the other Triple Thick products but the brush on finished with a far inferior finish than the resin or than the pictures I have seen of the Diamond Glaze (still haven’t actually tried the Diamond Glaze myself).
The Aileene’s Paper Glaze, which I think is meant for much thinner layers than these pendants require, didn’t dry clear in a thicker layer. It was clear around the edges but where the dome in the middle was it dried white and cracked kinda like what you would expect from just plain white glue. Not pretty.
Has anyone had any issues with their Diamond Glaze cracking? I just checked the Judi Kins website and they said there is a batch sold that is having this problem, but I’m pretty sure I don’t have the glaze from that batch.
I’m bummed — lots of work ruined. :(
Yes, my Diamond Glaze is cracking too! I am going to return mine to the store I got it from and order a new bottle from someone. I too, have ruined work. It sucks. Good luck!
hey where can i buy the silver bail?
See paper-source.com which is where I ordered papers for my DIY wedding invitations. I have not made these tiles yet, so I don’t know if the papers are the correct type, but they have great decorative and specialty papers over there that would be lovely on a pendant.
Also, I am a photographer, and I wonder how photos would “stick” to/under these products/adhesives…or perhaps a photocopy must be made first-?
There is a small and wonderful jewelers’ supply shop near me in Morganville, NJ. thebirdsandthebeads.com I believe they sell Diamond Glaze there (?)
I think I have died and gone to heaven. A friend referred me to your website and I love the scrabble tiles. I never dreamed a crafter like you was out there with take and make ideas….thank you, thank you , thank you…..and please keep them coming.
I love these pendants. I created a couple and wanted to take a photo of them to show my friends. I have not been able to focus on the picture under the gloss. how do you create the perfect picture of this item?
Awesome site and great pendants. I am a photographer and boy am I going to have fun.
Thank you so much for the know how!! :)
ok, so I am an idiot. i made my pendants just now it that envirotex lite stuff, and didnt wear gloves. now my hands are soooooo sticky and i cant get the sticky off. can anyone help me?
btw, my tiles turned out beautifully! lol
To clean up envirotex use rubbing alcohol.
For other who use this I have found using the #2 sized plastic cups sold at party stores (think plastic versions of ketchup cups from Wendys) work better than paper for mixing. I also use plastic spoons for measuring when making small batches (1 spoon of each bottle) and then I use a finger cot over my pointer finger to apply vs using droppers. Much more cost efficient for smaller batches and no clean up. FYI I blow torch the bubbles out of mine and it works great.
Hello I have the same question Joni does. Does anyone know what the best software to use is for digital photos for these tiles. I know people are selling the collage on etsy. I would like something that allows me to set the parameters of the photo size so I can load the pics and it does the work for me. Instead I am having to waste paper and ink to keep adjusting and I never get it right.
I have just made some of the pendants for the first time and something’s not right. I used mod podge to glue on the paper, let it dry, and then coated the tile with mod podge again. I let this dry and then gave it an additional coat of easy craft. Some of the drill holes have dark rings and there are also a few dark spots randomly placed around the tiles. The tiles looked fine before I used the easy craft. It seems maybe the easy craft leaked into and under the paper? How do you stop this?
My tips:
I only use mod podge, 1 coat to apply design and 2 coats to seal the design, including the edges of the tile.
I apply mod podge with an angle tipped foam brush (keep warm water and a paper towel near by to prevent drying of mod podge, if it dries on the brush it will create streaks!)
I don’t use bails because I bought a set of pendants and wore them for about 3 days then bails fell off. If you live in a hot (TX) or humid state beware!!
I use eye-screws, they are just like eye-pins but are screws. I dip the screw end into the mod podge and screw it into the tile for extra stability.
To use the eye-screws I bought a hand drill, looks like an eye-glass kit almost, to pre-drill a little hole for the screw.
If you feel like adding more dazzle to your tile and you have 1/18 drill bit and can master a power drill (or patient enough to hand drill through the tile), drill all the way throught the tile from top to bottom and place an eye-pin or head pin through the tile and decorate with beads and crystals at the top or bottom, this also creates stability since the top connector link is all the way through the tile.
All the products I listed were bought from hobby lobby, none of them cost over $4.00
Here is a picture of 3 pendants I’ve made:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/26709378@N04/3227434657/
If you would like to get your creative hands on some scrabble tiles without the commitment to a huge amount of tiles, I have them for sale in my etsy shop. Also, I can set you up with Photoshop files in the exact size of the scrabble tile so that you can design your own personal pendants! http://www.cutesiecrafts.etsy.com
I do apologize if this post shows up twice, I tried to post and it reset my comment section to a blank page.
Joni & Christine,
Most people swear that the scrabble tile is .75 by .75 IT’S NOT!
I’ve measured myself and created a template (photoshop) that fits with no overlap (unless you cut crooked like I always do..lol)
If you have photoshop and want the template (white and transparent), I can provide it to you along with tips on how to resize pictures and what easy to use program I resize all my pictures with, all for 1.50
Just convo me on my etsy site http://www.cutesiecrafts.etsy.com
Additon to previous post, the tiles I’ve created with Mod Podge has stood up to Texas & Louisiana weather and have been through and move and through heck and back and still look great with no peeling. Also, I use the MATTE finish only, the gloss doesn’t like to dry or set nice.
This is an awesome idea! I went shopping at hobby lobby, so i wasnt able to find jewelry bails, or diamond glaze!
I have learned that if you go to ebay.com you can buy the jewelry bails, and scrabble tiles, you can buy them really really cheap! I got 180 tiles for 10$! i have also learned that you cant find diamond glaze at our hobby lobby! i used tripple thick instead! it works really good!!!!!
a really good idea to do, is paint the edges of your scrabble tile with a paint pen! it looks adorable!!!
thanks for the ideas!
How cute!..the fumes are so killer for that stuff for me ^_^
Now, I use a inkjet printer and it bleeds with I apply sealer. If I were to get the images printed professionally (say a kodak machine or something like that) would those fade? Would they be usable? Thanks for any input!
Hi! I’ve been experimenting with different techniques for making these pendants using my photography, with varying levels of success.
When I first started, I had a few issues. I couldn’t find Scrabble tiles anywhere, not even the game, so I checked at Michael’s and found unfinished 1.25″ x 1″ wood tiles, ovals, and large circles. I first tried using ModPodge to adhere and seal my images, but because my photos are printed on an inkjet, the colors ran.
So on the second try, I sealed my photo in clear packing tape and then trimmed the tape to fit the wood tile. As long as I kept the tape seal intact, the colors didn’t run. The downside was that even though I used a burnisher, it was very tricky to seal the tape with no air pockets or wrinkles forming. I have tried using ModPodge on top of the taped image, but I am finding it impossible to get a smooth finish without brushstrokes.
I was concerned about using Diamond Glaze because I needed the pendants to be waterproof. I just didn’t see the point in making jewelry that couldn’t be worn when it was raining. So I used the EnviroTex Lite epoxy instead. The first pieces I did came out with some bubbles despite using the straw technique that has been mentioned. They also set unevenly because the drying surface wasn’t absolutely level.
I didn’t have access to the right kind of bail, so I chose to drill a hole straight through the top of the pendant and put a jump ring through it. The technique worked, but the hole has to be drilled ahead of time, not at the end, to avoid cracking or flaking of the hardened epoxy. And the hole has to stay open while the expoxy is drying, otherwise you have to re-drill it anyway. I use toothpicks that are turned frequently to keep them from getting stuck.
The Michael’s tiles are lighter weight raw wood, unlike the more solid feeling Scrabble tiles that are already coated. The natural wood color looked odd next to my photos, so I used black Sharpie to color the edges, and it has stayed surprisingly waterproof. I’m thinking about taking the time to epoxy the edges one by one, so the piece looks more finished. I have chosen to “distress” several of my pieces to camouflage execution flaws, and people seem to respond well to the look.
This time around, I used real Scrabble tiles, and find they are easier to work with than the unfinished type. I printed my images on glossy photo paper and used Martha Stewart decoupage glue to glue the photo to the tile. I didn’t seal the photo with tape or anything else. I applied the epoxy directly to the image, and the photo didn’t run at all. The epoxy did pick up a little black marker, creating a shadow effect at the top of one image.
I mixed the epoxy using one capful of each part and mixing it in a Dixie cup with a popsicle stick. I used the popsicle stick to drizzle epoxy onto the photo and push it to the edges. I would breathe on the tiles, not blowing, not inhaling, but open mouthed like I was trying to steam up a window or clean my glasses. It helped, but there were still little bubbles trapped inside this morning. I wonder if it would have helped if I had kept them somewhere warmer?
The jump ring attachment has been okay, but I don’t like that it interferes with the artwork and can be messy. So this time, I tried drilling holes in the top of the pendants, cutting the tops off of eyelet headpins then Super Gluing them inside the holes. I really like the look, and the drilling can be done before or after the front epoxy.
I’ve experimented with using the Enviro-Tek with other projects, like using it as a suspension for small plastic items inside a metal ring, or sealing fabric and paper to an open glass square to make a magnet design.
I have put up a new page on my website with examples of my pendant experiments, so that you can check them out for yourself if you want to see them.
http://www.annearchist.com-a.googlepages.com/scrabbletilestyle
I have a question….have looked for the jewelry bails and cannot find them at Michaels or Hobby Lobby….where can I get them??
The bails you can only get online. Try the Esty sites. And the ink jet images are easy to get printed. I convert a document full of these images to a pdf file with a pdf creator. The perfect size for a scrabble tile is .75 X .83. Then I email the pdf to staples and give the directions on how I want it printed. It is under a dollar for a whole sheet of images.
I was wondering if you could paste the paper on the side with the letter on the Scrabble tile. Does anyone know if it changes anything?
I suppose you could use the letter side, but them you would have to worry about an indented image. The letters are not simply painted on, they are indented in the wood. It may seems weird using a scrabble tile, but that is one of the beautiful parts, you are sort of recycling. For a more clean square you can purchase just wooden thin squares from craft store as well a s online. Jo~anns also has circles that work nicely.
Thank you so much for these instructions. I always wondered how to make them. Can’t wait for the weekend so I can go shopping!
Here’s some info on Diamond Glaze, including how to get a free sample.
I was wondering what size bails are used. I went onto Ebay and under the Aanraku bails they have 3 different sizes small, medium or large. Does it matter what size I purchase for the scrabble tile?
As for bails, we use the small size. Aanraku has recently introduced the medium but we have not tried them. The large look out of scale with the scrabble tile but that’s just our opinion. Of course using the small size will limit what size chain/ribbon will go through the hole. You might want to try all three and see what works best for you.
Hi, I found that the Mod Podge leaves streaks on the image when I apply it as a sealer. Do these streaks disappear after applying the Diamond Glaze?
Hi everyone! I have made about 75 of these and am using them to raise money for the Avon Walk for Breast cancer that i will be walking in June 6 -7. I have done really well with that. Since I have pretty much exhausted my sales on them, I am wanting to make pins out of them. Does anyone know where I can get pins (the ones with a backing like earring backs)?
Hi there, appreciate the tutorial as well. I have another problem however – bought a bunch of these Scrabble pendants and some necklaces separate, but found the ‘clasp’ can’t put through the silver bail. Is this a common problem? I have always assumed the bail should be big enough for us to swap different necklaces to wear with?.
I’m trying to put photo paper on bamboo tiles. I glue the photo paper to the tile, then coat with mod podge and cover with crystal lacquer (similar to diamond glaze). And I get tons of bubbles! Any suggestions would be much appreciated. Thanks!
I’m having a few problems with my glass scrabble tile pendants. Sometimes, even though I put 3 coats of diamond glaze on the back, the E6000 eats through and leaves a bail shaped mark on the picture
Also, I was wondering if anyone has tried marine varnish for sealing the pictures and making them more waterproof?
do you now what kind of pen you could use if you want to add an initial.
Boy, do I feel behind the times – here it is 4/22/09 and I’m just now finding this tutorial and series of Q&As! In my first attempt, I divided my tiles into 3 groups of 10 tiles each to see what would would best and had some mixed results.
First I found that Zip Dry Paper Glue (by Beacon Adhesives) worked the best to adhere my paper to the scrabble tiles.
All tiles using scrapbook paper turned out great; but had mixed results printing my own floral images onto photo paper using an ink jet printer . . . and this is the weird part, some bled and others didn’t but there didn’t appear to be any rhyme or reason as to why. This I need to investigate further – hummmmm . . . .
Mod Podge worked well as a sealer no matter what glue I used to affix the paper to the tile in the first step.
I finished all tiles with DG3 Art Gel (by BeadSmith) which dries to a clear, hard, durable finish – although I haven’t done a water test, and am a bit hesitant to do so. My word of caution here is that you should work from the tile edges into the center so you don’t use too much gel. On the first tile I went from the center outward and ended with a “hump” in the middle of the tile – ugly!
To finish my tiles, I’m using a variety of techniques to provide buyers with more options: earring posts, stick-on pin backs, magnets, glue to hair clips and do a simple wire wrapping to create my own bail (basically 1 short wire with 2 simple loops turned at 45 degree angles to allow for gluing to the tile and allowing for a chain to run through for a necklace).
Tomorrow I will try the spray Krylon some folks have suggested to prevent the apparently random bleeding . . . I’ll let you know my results.
My thanks to everyone who published, commented and contributed to all of our successes!!
I am off to the store to buy all of these items. I noticed that some of the pictures used in the examples that everyone was asking about are available on the Microsoft Word Clip Art Gallery online. http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/clipart/default.aspx
You would have to put them into Microsoft Word and resize them. But then you could print them out in color on white cardstock and trim them as needed. I am going to try it tonight. But there are some GREAT images on there. You can search for “flowers” or “bird” or whatever you want.
THANK YOU for this fabulous tutorial. My daughter and I jumped in with both feet and blindfolds on, and have been discouraged by all the mistakes we’re making! But we’ve invested in the supplies, so we’re going to make it work, and MANY thanks to you. My question; is there anything wrong with going ahead and cutting the paper to the size of the tile, rather than using the utility knife to cut the paper after it is glued on? My experience (having taken many art classes) is that it’s very easy to slip with the utility knife and cut into the paper, or have a “messy” edge. Please let me know your thoughts on this, thank you! Also… any tutorials on making a light box? : )
Can you use the same materials on ceramic tile that you use on a scrabble tile?
I don’t have a light box so I hold the template and paper up to the computer screen and centre my pictures that way. Take care not to press too hard! Its not great with very thick paper but just about ok.
Just wondering if anyone has figured out how to make these tiles and use Diamond Glaze without an indentation in the centers of each tile after they dry. I recently made about 12 of them, all using the diamond glaze working from the outer edges of the tile in and though it looks level when wet, after drying the edges are higher than the inside of the tile which dries with the indentaiton. It’s very frustrating.
I have an idea for the bubble problem. I work in an orthodontic office and we have a little vibrating desktop gadget that we hold impressions on to vibrate all the bubbles out of the impression material. I’m wondering if its possible to vibrate the bubbles out of the epoxy somehow?
Tania, the indention is a sign that you are using too much glaze. Hey check out this cute site, she has her own line of Scrabble replacement tiles called Scrabble-Dabble Doo!!! Tiles. I bought the tutorial and it was awesome! She is also my source for inexpensive high quality beautiful chains as well!
Here’s the link: http://www.scrabbledabbledoo.etsy.com/
I have the same problem as Julie. I use DG3 for scrabble tile pendants. I leave the DG3 to dry 5-6 days and then I put them in organza bags, ready to be sent.
My problem : they get stuck on the bag and you can see some marks of the bag on the tile. the same happens if I put 2 tiles together : the DG3 acts like a glue and they get stuck.
Why ??????
Alvin, Diamond Glaze is NOT a reliable product. It has had major issues for nearly a year, Judy Kins released a lot of bad batches of glaze into the market, as you may have heard. The best glaze that I have used is from Sun and Moon, everyone seems to be using it. Give this a try, it’s all that I use now, here’s where you’ll find it http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25523491
Fun tutorial! I have heard these are kind of tricky to make. This tutorial seems very exhaustive! Thanks!
I was wondering what type of mod podge you used. I’m rounding up the supplies to do this, because I’m now in love with the idea, but I’m stuck on the mod podge. What finish should I get? Matte? Satin? Outdoor?
Thanks!
Thanks so much for this idea….I’ve made about 6 of these necklaces as gifts, and people love them!
Thanks. I always wondered how to do this. I might actually try this at home :)
Just a tip.. if you can’t find the tiles, how about trying a wooden or bamboo placemat? It already has the holes drilled in it for the hardware. I will be trying these this week since I have made tons of bracelets from one mat and still have plenty of tiles left over!
Robin… where did you find the bamboo placemat? Great idea!!
Hey thats a great tutorial. I would surely like to try making few on my own.
Samantha
http://www.Aafter.com
You have just shared an interesting skill to make scrabble tiles. I tried to read carefully your tips here. Thanks for sharing your thoughtful skill on it. Toddler Crafts Julie.
These are so cute. a friend of mine makes them and that is where I first encountered them. I have had her make me a few special orders, but now my dd wants to make them for her bff’s and I can’t afford to special order 6 tiles for each girl. lol Can you tell me where I might find the tiles online? Thanks!! I keep getting the tutorial when I google search for scrabble tiles.
Do you have a pair of pirate beanie earrings. I think I recall seeing pic. of a pair with pirate skull with readlocks and a beanie cap.
Please respond asap.
sincerely,
sarita
Jennifer,
You can find the placemats at WalMart, Target or Home Goods. They are under $4 each. I filled a mayo jar with tiles from 1 placemat. I use the round ones, but here is alink to a picture of the rectangle ones:
http://images.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.alternativeconsumer.com/wp-content/uploads/Ross/08_SUMMER/BamPlace_400_1.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.alternativeconsumer.com/2008/10/27/bamboo-placemat/&usg=__mRU40hUywKgrPPNMA2vjhTZFkLQ=&h=372&w=392&sz=28&hl=en&start=5&tbnid=u0RZtLns3PGG7M:&tbnh=117&tbnw=123&prev=/images%3Fq%3DBamboo%2Btile%2B%2BPlacemat%26gbv%3D2%26ndsp%3D18%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DN
Robin
I am looking for the bails you used for this project with no luck! Any suggestions?
You can find bails on etsy at http://www.scrabbledabbledoo.etsy.com/
Thank you so much for the WONDERFUL tutorial! So glad I found this and I love all the helpful comments.
Thank you so much for this tutorial – I’ve just made my first pendants and so far (they’re curing) – they look GREAT!
So glad this can help others begin. This tutorial is meant as a starting point for home crafters. Keep experimenting. There are a number of products out there to try out.
If you need bails we suggest Ray ( http://myworld.ebay.com/lytray )
I love Scrabble pendants! I sell personalized ones with initials and names! Very fun!
I am trying to find out where I can buy the scrabble tiles. Jusgt getting ready to make, ubt need tiles. Also, when you make the tile, at what point do you put the hole in the tile andwhat do you use to put the hole in the tile.
Thanks so much for your help in advance. Warddean
My question is, what is the need for a light box? I am new to this and I thought if you have a template to cut out the square, that is all you need.
Use the square template if using a scrapbook paper that has a big design. It helps you see what portion of a big design will look best on a pendant. The light box (or window/sunlight) helps you see through the paper to apply the glue and place the tile on it. When the glue dries, flip over the paper/tile to trim off the excess. When trimming, please don’t cut on your light box, use a cutting mat etc. Light boxes can be inexpensive like the Darice Light Box 6X9″
I picked up a used scrabble game at a thrift store–only $2!!
Just made some today. They look fabulous! I even did some from photos (printed at Walgreens) that look great! A plus about them–photo paper is stiff enough that you can put it over the letter side so the back is blank. I also used the same steps to cover a large metal washer to make a pendant (minus the aanraku bail).
Bubble tip: Suck the bubble back in the bottle, and when it gets just inside the tip, squeeze it back out on scrap paper–worked great.
so, how much would all this be costing?
Hi. I live in Michigan and am having a terrible time finding Judikins Diamond Glaze (tried JoAnn Fabrics and Michaels and Hobby Lobby) or the Sun and Moon recommended above.
ALSO*** Can I use magazine cut outs for the paper or will the ink bleed. I found some really cool designs in magazines. Thanks.
Etsy is a good source for supplies. Search for Diamond Glaze under the Supplies section. You can also find products on eBay and Amazon. Diamond Glaze and Aanraku Bails can be found for sale on all three sites. You may also want to try 3D Crystal Lacquer. There are several water-based glaze products out on the market now.
Yes, magazine images can be used. The paper is thin though, so you’ll need to use it carefully. Gently use the mod podge to prevent any bleeding.
I found the diamond glaze at Joann’s next to the rubber stamps. Stampers use it to give a 3-d effect to an image they stamp. It is in a pink and black labeled bottle–I forgot what they call it.
Does anyone know where I can purchase Envirotex? Is that from a hardware store?
Nevermind, I found it at AC Moore!
I can’t locate these types of bails…(I don’t want to use sterling silver). Any suggestions? Thanks
I saw these for $30 in a boutique near where I live. I thought it was the CUTEST thing ever, but was no way going to spend $30 on something that I was sure I could make on my own. Well, I looked into it further online, and this is the website I came across!! I ended up making these for my Christmas gifts for all my closest friends :)! Best idea ever!!! Thank you!
I did not find “diamond glaze”, but I did find from Michaels this stuff called “Paper Glaze”. I also put 1 or 2 little swarovski crystal rhinestones on them. Then then on my 1st layer of paper glaze I sprinkled fine crystal glitter on the entire thing. Then after it dried, I would put another layer of paper glaze, so the glitter would be suspended between the two. I love the results! Very pretty and sparkly!
good idea allie!
well about the diamond glaze and water issue, i took a shower with mine on and it was fine.
but now mines broken (the bail came off) cause i slept with it on.
but ill just glue that back on :)
For those who are unsure about what type of glaze to use…. there is no doubt that the Enviro Tex Lite is the best. Tried Triple Thick and a Gloss Varnish and they were so soft and easily dented after they cured. With the Enviro Tex, I received a superior hard gloss finish that is nearly indestructible.
Hi,
I have searched and searched for a seller that sold on Etsy,Can someone please help me with info.( ScrabbleDabbleDoo ) My fav. supplier !!!
Thank you
I love the tutorial. I am mad that I have not seen this site before, but glad I found it now. I have made the scrabble tiles and I use the triple thick with success. I do not use the mod podge or the glue. I lightly sand my pieces to remove any gloss then put on a thin layer of triple thick. Place my cut paper or fabric on the tile. Let it sit for about 5 minutes. I then put a slightly thicker coat of triple thick and let it sit overnight. I glue a bead to the top with E6000 and I have not had any problems with waterspots or the bead falling off. You have to use a bead with a big enough hole. When I find them I usually buy 2 or 3 strands of them. I find most of them in the jewelry findings area in the craft stores. I also place flat back savorski crystals on some pieces. I place them when I put the last coat of triple thick on the tile. If I use fabric instead of paper you have to be sure the fabric is adhered completely before using the next coat of triple thick or you will get bad bubbles. Also if you use the fabric you will need an extra coat of triple thick. You must let the tile sit for about 20 minutes between coats. I love this idea and have made several domino necklaces and also starting using poker chips.
my diamond glaze is still getting fingerprints in it after 3 days! am i making it too thick? will it ever cure totally?
i bought my tiles from Hasbro directly for $6.50 for a complete set and no shipping :)
I just got a scrabble tile pendant as a gift and love it. I would love to start making them, but I am not clear on the instructions as far a the paper. Where do you get the paper, do you have to use a specific kind, etc?
I am excited to try these. I tried reading all of the comments, but ran out of time. I have a couple of questions. Sorry if they have been asked. Do you adhere your paper to the side of the tile that does not have the letter or cover the scrabble letter or does it make a difference? Has anyone tried using Stampin Up’s Crystal Effects with any success? Thank you for posting this tutorial. I SO appreciate it when crafter’s share their tips.
Diamond Glaze: It may take longer than 3 days to fully cure depending on the humidity of your area. How thick it is applied may also be a factor. There are a number of similar products on the market that can be compared.
Papers: Many normal weight papers will work with this tutorial. Try different types to find which works best for you. Acid-free, archival papers are good option. Some good design papers come from scrapbooking shops, old books, greeting cards, gift wrap, and origami. Other sources are Japanese papers like Chiyogami, Yuzen, or Washi.
Regarding which side of the tile to use, the classic way is to expose the game piece’s letter/number when the finished pendant is flipped over. This means your paper would be adhered to the “backside” of the tile. Others might prefer to show the blank wood instead and choose to cover the letter with their paper. Either way has benefits.
I’m going to try the Enviro Tex tonight and see if that works better. I was actually using Triple Thick because I couldn’t find Diamond Glaze anywhere here in Georgia.
Love the tutorial! Thanks!
Allie…would love to see a picture!
help! my Enviro Tex must have found it’s way under the paper and it’s darker there. i must not have glued good?
Hi, I did not see my post so I am trying again. Sorry if it goes through twice. What type of modge podge do you use? Please be details (matte, clear, glue, sealer?). Also, where do you buy the bails?
Can you use fabric for this project as well??
Where did Youu get that adorable bird on a wire paper?
i’m still having the resin leak under my paper and ruin some of my work. i am using 2 coats of MP and doing the sides also. PLEASE help??!!!
I use Enviro Tex Lite
Thanks!
This tutorial was developed using original Mod Podge. There are different types of Mod Podge now to try. Some are sold in smaller sampler sets too.
Aanraku bails can be found at online shops on Etsy, eBay, Amazon etc.
You can also print your own artwork to make into a pendant. Laser prints will give the best result. InkJet has a tendancy to color bleed reds, blues and sometimes black. Be sure to seal your InkJet prints really well before glazing.
We’ve seen fabric done before. Not sure if they used DG or a resin though.
I linked you :
I better than a laser printer or inkjet is a dye sub printer like the Canon Selphy. Dye sub colors will never bleed as it is the same process as a photograph. Also, i have been getting my glass, bails, glaze, and other supplies from Karen’s Craft Supplies at http://www.etsy.com/shop/Karenscraftsupplies
I’ve been extremely happy with her quality and fast shipping … better than running down to Michael’s.
Is there a templete for the scrabble pieces to print pictures out with? Ive looked everywhere..
For those using inkjet photos – print your photos, clipart, etc, and then spray it with
Krylon Workable Fixative. Let it dry and then you can put anything on your photo and the ink will not bleed.
What is the correct size image to use for a scrabble square tile?
This is perfect, a friend sent me this site. I want to make keychains or key holders…Not sure how the key holders will work, but I’m excited to try the many variations on here…My design is simple, but it will take some time getting it resized….one friend is moving to texas, leave four others beind. We were going to get tattoos, but not everyone is on board with that so I thought surprising them with something like this would be perfect….I can’t wait to work on these….Thanks for all of the advice, tips and tricks..I’m wonering if dominos would work?
If I use a photo that was printed off the internet or from a magazine, I will put a piece of clear packaging tape over top of the image before applying any glaze. The tape stops the photo from bleeding.
I just tried to order another set of wooden tiles from Hasbro – ordered first set in December. They asked me what I was using the tiles for, and when I said “jewelry” they refused to sell me any more. Has anyone had this experience? The prices for wood tiles at Hasbro is the best. Where is everyone else getting tiles for good prices?
Well, it seems to me that Hasbro, who has a trademark on scrabble tiles, found out why they have been selling so many tiles. Ha, I’m surprised it took them 2-3 years to figure this out. Legally you can not take someone’s product or the name “Scrabble” and use it for your own profit. It will be interesting to see what happens to those company’s who have been successful in selling scrabble tile art. If you can’t make it your own I wouldn’t make it at all.
i have a question..i bought glossy accents since i couldnt find diamond glaze…do i paint it on or just use the applicator and just coat the whole tile?
Hi! this is such a great tutorial! Thank you for sharing, I can’t wait to make these with my squadron craft group!
I have one question, about how long do you think this craft would take start to finish? I know your website it Make and Take…do you think these could be made in about 2 hours? (aside from the 3 day drying time, of course)
Thank you!
Thanks for sharing this tutorial, I’ve always wondered how to make it!
sooooo cute!
I just bought one of your pendants on a necklace! I absolutely love it! It is a gift for my mom who happens to be an avid scrabble player! I am hoping to make a charm bracelet for her with all of her grandchildren’s pictures using letter tiles with their first initials. Thanks so much for posting the directions!
p.s. I bought the necklace at Fern’s Garden in Long Beach, CA.
Thanks for sharing. It’s very nice, and very generous.
And, you make it look so easy!
Love, Love, Love this idea. I’m going to have to try this soon. Thanks for sharing.
Does anybody have a tile template? I found a pdf. for the bottle caps but cannot find one for the scrabble tiles. Thank you.
Teresa – Here’s a great company that sells the tile images: http://bit.ly/cCL3uz
Have fun crafting.
I have been reading so many different sites to find the answer to a question about different types of papers to use. I have been using the Enviro-tex Lite and sometimes I find “greasy” spots come through the paper. It only pops up in certain areas. Sometimes it the entire paper and sometimes its in spots. Is this b/c I’m not coating or using only 1 coat on the paper? Is there a certain type of paper that works best. It is so disappointing to spend so much time and effort and then after putting on the resin it has oily spots… Any help would be appreciated! Thanks!
This is the tutorial I used to learn how to make pendants, and I’ve started branching out since then making earrings and wine glass charms as well. However, I would like to start designing my own images, and don’t know how to do that. Does anyone know any good tutorials on how to make your own graphics sheets?
I had to laugh when I read this since this is how I started making these till I saw the Home studio necklaces website and started wondering how they made so many a day. so I ordered one from them. They do not use the squeeze on resin/ glaze for the top, they use a sticker. You glue the paper design to the tile, then stick the sticker on top smoothing out so it looks good then turn over to put the bail on. Takes about 5 minutes to make one. After some searching, I found the stickers, which I found plus many more used in other applications. So simple it takes out the waiting, drying time worrying about dog hair and dust etc. I was surprised but not shocked. Now I have round stickers for my round necklaces and then the stickers for the scrabble tiles. No more worry about messing up anymore !!
Great tips, thanks!
To keep images from bleeding:
I’ve heard of covering your paper with clear packing tape first, and then putting the clear glaze over that. After it’s dry, just cut off the excess tape from around the edges. Haven’t tried it myself, but sounds like it would work.
Hi,
To prevent bleeding, just spray your image with a workable fixative. You can get that at Michaels or Joanns. I print off my images from my inkjet printer (first I size them in word to get the correct size) then I spray them, let it dry an hour or so and then no more bleeding! I do this all the time…works like a charm! I made some really cute butterfly scrabble tile pendants for graduation gifts.
Come visit my blog: http://debbiesaenz.typepad.com
Blessings,
Debbie
This website has the stickers for Scrabble tiles, bottle caps and more: http://www.sunandmooncraftkits.com
I found it while looking for supplies. The site is BEAUTIFUL and the people who run the business are some of the nicest most down to earth people that I have ever met. I checked out their Facebook page and everyone seems to love them. I’ve ordered from them several times now, their shipping and support is top notch!
I’ve made a lot of these pendants now and everyone loves them!
Thanks for the helpful info everyone.
Jess
Hi! Thanks for the great tutorial!
I included it in my list of pendant making tutorials as my favorite.
Here’s the link if you’d like to take a look:
http://dottygrey.blogspot.com/2010/06/scrabble-tile-pendants-tutorial-list.html
Natalia
What is Mod Podge used for and is there a substitute?
Finally! A clear, easy to understand tutorial on making scrabble pendants that doesn’t involve kilns or toaster ovens!! Thank you so much! I thought I’d never want to start the process til I saw your simple tutorial….wonderful!
I’ve made a couple of them, and I really like them!
i will say one thing dont touch it when its drying!!
this is soo cool so i decided to make them
except i couldnt find bails so i had to caft some using beads but it workd out :)
right now their drying
my question is the glaze turned a little white instead of clear… so dose that mean next time to use less? im guessing it dose haha
thanks for the amazing idea :)
This was a GREAT tutorial. I made a ton of them for end of school year gifts. Everyone loved them! Thanks.
at my friends birthday party one of our friends made one for her! it was SO cute! i loved it & told her that she has to make one for me! one question my friend didn’t use a silver bail she just used a drilled hole, does that change the process at all? thanks!
Would the Modge Podge dimensional product work to replace the diamond glaze?
A great tutorial, thanks so much for posting this. I was wondering how well the process worked on materials other than scrabble tiles. I was looking to cut the uhh ’tile’ to the shape of my image for this project – earrings of little er ‘planes’ kinda. Would a moderate/thin balsa wood work? Other suggestions?
Follow up question – anyone know if you can drill through it once it’s done?
RE: Purchasing Scrabble tiles (game)
I just go to local thrift shops/Salvation Army/ Goodwill (in the States) or any other thrift shops to purchase used Scrabble games – I usually find them for about $2 -$5. The boards can be used for other projects (collages, photo boards, base for cork tiles to be used as bulletin boards for your kids’ rooms or for above your telephone desk etc). The tiles racks can be painted any colours, with the scrabble tiles being painted again any colour, and any word containing seven letters (believe, respect, delight etc) that can be displayed anywhere in your home, on your desk etc.
Thanks for posting this how to – fantastic when we all share our ideas to help each other!
This is perfect! My boyfriend is going to Mexico for a week and was upset that he wouldn’t have any contact with me while he’s there. I wanted to make something special for him to sorta remember me by, and this will work perfectly! Thank you so much, he will love it :) Plus it’s practically indestructible.
Is it best to print on phot paper
Unable to find any of the glazes mentioned at Joanns or AC (they suggested I go to Lowes ???), I bought Delta Clear Gloss Glaze. It seems to be working! My first effort had a hollow in the center in the morning, so I am adding a tad more, hoping I don’t over-do it! Unable to find the glue-on bails, too. Plenty of sites to order from (such as Firemountaingems.com) Here’s an idea to share… when I exhibit these at craft shows, I will use the wooden scrabble racks for display!
Oh my goodness!! These are adorable!! I have seen a bunch on etsy and wondered how to do it….now I am gonna have to try this :-)
I’m still having trouble with my bails popping off…..the tile seemed to “soak up” the super glue and it wouldn’t stick…I even tried using G-S Hypo Cement and they still pop off….I do live in Texas (a humid state), but does anyone have any other suggestions? Thank you!!
Love the tutorial!! looks like a fun project- we’d love to feature it on our website this summer if you are interested! Please contact us at the e-mail given.
-The Blue Team
This is an excellent tutorial! Easy to understand and follow. People love that you tell what product you use for each step and what pitfalls to watch out for as well as your solution to the problem. Thanks for sharing such a fun project!
Excellent tutorial. These are so cute!
Look on Ebay.com for bulk packages of tiles for auction. Much easier than searching all over town and cheaper than buying a new game!
@Rachael – it would be expensive to buy a bunch of games over and over, that’s right.
Thank you so much for sharing your expertise and this tutorial.
Great tutorial! Thanks so much for sharing.
Has anyone tried the epoxy stickers instead of the glazing to seal? Is super glue the best to use to attach the bail?
Thanks for any responses!
I bought one of these necklaces in the outer banks and I love it! I’ve been wanting to make them ever since i got it. Thank you so much for posting this, it makes everything a whole lot easier! Im going to Michael’s today to get the materials I need. Thanks again :)
Wow, this is exactly what I was looking for. I can’t find glass tiles in the local craft stores and this is a very good alternative. And the tutorial looks so easy to follow.
I’ve bought most of the items needed, but I’m stuck with some of the things. Please help!
Here are the problems I have:
1. I’m from Malaysia, so some of the things needed do not go by the same name. For example, I can’t go to a shop and ask for ‘Modge Podge’, I’ll get a blank stare. Can you please tell me what ‘modge podge’ and ‘diamond glaze’ and ‘E6000′ are? I mean, what type of glue/sealant they are? Perhaps I can find a Malaysian version of the same thing.
2. From what I’ve been reading, Diamond Glaze will soften when it comes in contact with water. Malaysia is very humid, and rains often. Any suggestions for an alternative to Diamond Glaze, but with the same effect?
Thanks a million. I can’t wait to try them out :)
I bought some of the resin “stickers” and they’ve been working pretty well. My question is, do you still have to seal the image with Mod Podge like the tutorial says? I haven’t been, and it looks fine, but I want to make sure they will be ok.
Also, is Tacky Glue better than Mod Podge for adhering the paper to the tiles? I have been using Mod Podge, but the corners sometimes lift off, even if I’ve let them dry overnight.
Finally, what is the best glue to use to adhere bails or magnets? I used E6000, but with the strong magnets, I have had two tiles get too close to eachother and one of the magnets snaps off the tile, even though it has dried overnight. Would superglue or Gorilla Glue be better?
These are awesome! Put jump rigs on them and attach them to a blank charm bracelet to have an even more original piece of elegance and awesomeness
Hey there I am wanting to use your piture from this post over on my blog. I have your link over there already. I am going to try my go at the same idea but I have Mah Jongg tiles. I am so excited to try it. I want to give credit where credit is due however.
Please let me know. THANKS!!
~Nikki
This is SUCH a great idea! I can’t wait to try this. Do you know if there is an alternative idea for the bails – something that we could make ourselves? I’m not sure how easily I can get these locally, although I’m sure I can find some on the internet. I love the idea of using other game tiles as well – I noticed an abandoned set of wooden sudoku tiles at my Mum’s place the other day, which may soon end up at my place instead!
Thanks again for the great tutorial (and inspiration!).
Kath, some pendant makers will use wire and make a creative “bail” twisting it. As long as there is a place to attach the glue it should work. Others also use a small eye screw and drill it into the top of the tile. You’ll want to do a small pilot hole to help the wood not split. It can be tricky.
Emily M.,
We’ve heard of issues with Gorilla Glue for bails (bubbling etc). Super glue is good, if there is enough. Some people swear by E6000, but we found it temperamental – sometimes it worked, sometimes it didn’t. The magnets you use might be too big or powerful. Try a smaller size to see if that helps.
Hazlin,
You may want to search for supplies on Etsy. There are quite a few sellers. Be sure to search under the Supplies category instead of Handmade. Ebay may have them too.
Re. attaching bails to pendants – be VERY wary about the glues you use! I recently spoke with an avid crafter who has experienced both nerve and brain damage as a direct result of using E6000 glue! It MUST be used in a well-ventilated space, but that stlll wouldn’t protect you from the effect of skin irritation. As a substitute for the toxicity of E6000 another crafter recommended Gorilla Glue’s brand of “super glue” for attaching bails.
WOW! This tutorial is nearly 2 years old now!!
Happy crafting!!
Ah, now THAT’s a good idea! I hadn’t thought of making a bail myself. I do have some wire I could try out for this. I also have a some fine drill bits that I knew would come in handy one day – and now I know what to use them for. Thanks for the follow-up ideas!
It’s pretty darn impressive that a tutorial that’s nearly two years old is still drawing new comments and inspiring people to go get creative! Well done!!
Just found this tutorial today and noticed some of you are having problems with glue used to attach the bails. The one I use is from 3-M — it is Scotch-Weld Instant Adhesive CA40H and it is fantastic. It is pretty expensive but you only use a very small amount so it lasts a long, long time. I buy mine from After Midnight Rubber Stamps (google for their website) and I also buy the bails there. Excellent service and there are some great projects on the website, too! Hope this info is helpful!
I too am wondering about the “resin dome” I ordered some yesterday but they will take a few days to arrive. The side that touches the paper is sticky but do i still need to mod podge? Do I do anything else but put the dome on? Hopefully someone can say or I get instructions lol. I will post back with a follow-up after I have played with them.
Okay, so what if i want to paint on the Scrabble tile? do i just skip the gluing the paper and just paint then the rest?
This is a great tutorial! I have made something similar, but never thought to take it this far. Great ideas..keep em coming and we’ll keep on reading!
Invitations and Wrapping Paper Expressions
Doing some searching tonight for ideas for Christmas gifts and found your tutorial on the Scrabble pendants. These are wonderful, and I am going to get my supplies tomorrow to start. I saw that you said these make wonderful rings…how do you make the rings? Do you just glue the tile to a flat band? I would love to make rings too! Thanks so much for sharing, Tracy
I am ecstatic with this project! I can’t wait to share it with our Girl Scouts Troop, Thanks a lot!
I’m very interested in the stick-on glaze ‘drops’ and would definitely be interested in hearing any reviews. Do they stick well? Would moisture seep between the clear sticker and your image? They almost seem too good to be true… (?) Thanks in advance!
I have been using the stick on resin stickers for almost a year now. I have never even tried the diamond glaze. The tip I have for the stickers is this: Stick the sticker directly onto your photo BEFORE adding the picture to the scrabble tile. Press well to get all the surfaces snug against the sticker especially around the edges. Then just use a sharp knife like a razor blade or scissors to cut the picture out around the sticker. Get nice and close, but careful not to cut the resin sticker itself. You do not need to use modge pog to seal the picture first, and the stickers make these very water resilient. Don’t have to worry about rain or getting splashed, although You can’t shower with them on, or anything like that. To glue the picture to the scrabble tile, I use a tacky glue.
I have had a lot of trouble trying to find a good glue to use for gluing on the bail to the tile, however! I have used super glue (reg & gel) gorilla super glue, E6000, and several different 2-part epoxy’s! They all seem to pop off. I am happy to hear about the possibility of the glue Theresa mentioned above… 3M’s Scotch Weld Instant Adhesive CA40H. Can’t wait to try it!
I found some round wooden tiles at Michaels (about the size of a quarter), which made very cute pendants also. And for any pendants that come out to be less than perfect for jewelry, then make some magnets. If you have 6-8 scrabble pendants, you can glue them together, then glue them to a thin piece of craft wood to make mosaic magnets. They are very cute…and you don’t waste your pieces just because they may have a bubble or aren’t exactly what you were aiming for. Thanks for the tutorial!
Thank you so much for this wonderfully awesome tutorial! I have been wanting to make these for ages and haven’t had a clue how to start. LOL.
You rock!
I am wondering if you decide to put a sticker on the paper when do you do it….Before modge podge or before dimond glaze???
Heather – I would put your sticker on before the mod podge. Then apply the mod podge and it will help seal it to the paper, before the glaze.
I just want to say that tonight I made a big batch of pendants! These are so fun and addicting!
A few things:
- For the tiles, we had an old game of Scrabble. But now that I’m finally out, I’ll be on the hunt at any and all thrift stores for a Scrabble game.
- I’ve been using mod podge for the under and over of the paper, instead of using tacky glue. Trying to limit the supplies.
- I wasn’t able to find Diamond Glaze, so I’ve used Glossy Accents by Inkssentials. And to help me avoid bubbles, I squeeze a little bit of the gloss out on a napkin, so it’s primed and ready for the tile. Use more of this than you think, it’s dries fairly flat.
- I’ve purchased bails at a few places on etsy. I like the medium bail size, as it fits larger necklace chains through it’s hole.
– round bails: http://www.etsy.com/listing/59943893/50-medium-bright-shiny-silver-round-glue
– leaf bails: http://www.etsy.com/shop/CandyTiles2?section_id=5746858
– leaf bails: http://www.etsy.com/listing/59657370/aanraku-bails-50-medium-silver-plated
- For necklaces, I raided Walmart for ball chains – they have a 3 pack of 18 inch chains for $2. Roberts in
Utah has plain chains for $1.50. Michael’s has some too, but not as cheap as Walmart.
Have fun crafting everyone!!!
Hi Marie!!
Thank you so much for your tutorial!!
I have a questions…
I’ve made these before using my own images on card stock with a laserjet printer, and they turned out great!
I tried making these last night using pictures printed from Walmart’s 1-hour photo on Matte Finish…
I made them following your directions, just like I’ve always done, and all 5 photo images have hundreds of tiny little bubbles all over them. Is it because of the Matte Finish on the photos? Should I opt to have Glossy Finish next time? I wanted to use my son’s picture for his sports events, and it just turned out awful. The other side of the pendant is great, but that’s because it’s just a printed image from the computer.
What happened with my photo side? Any help you can offer would be great!
Thank you in advance!
Deby
Does anyone print images on photo paper and so you use flat…semi…or gloss??? Also does anyone do photos??How do you make the images that small..Thanks
Love scrabble pendants. After reading this I really must make some.
Great idea. I am just getting into resin and this seems like a good place to begin. When looking at collage sheets, do I have to purchase scrabble tile size or can I use 1 x 1 too……….or is there a way to manipulate them in photoshop to the size I would like.
I would like versatility for metal collage pendants and the affordability of scrabble tiles for other applications.
Go on line to Rio Grande. They sell loads of findings
I’ve been struggling with bleeding ink for ages. Because I’m using my own images it’s been a real process trying to find glue that won’t cause the ink to bleed (I just can’t give up the markers I use!) but I finally decided to go big with this and try a different method. I decided to scan all my images into my computer (this also makes for some fun editing and color play) and then printed them out on glossy photo paper. I use a Canon Pixma Inkjet printer. After playing around with different types of paper, including cardstock, I found that the glossy photo paper (staples brand, to boot!) for whatever reason won’t bleed.
I’m currently trying out two different methods. The ModPodge I have is a matte paper finish and I’m using Glossy Accents instead of Diamond Glaze (I have used Paper Glaze by Aileen’s in place of Diamond Glaze and I find that Glossy Accents is just as good if not better than both). For one set of pendants I skipped the ModPodge step and went straight to the Glossy Accents. For another set, I used the ModPodge and then the Glossy Accents. Trouble is, what’s the point of using glossy photo paper if I’m using a matte finish sealer? Instead of heading to the store to get the glossy finish I’m experimenting with skipping the sealing step and trusting my glossy photo paper. I will definitely update with my results since I’ve been playing around with this for a couple years and I think I’ve finally found a recipe that works!
Good luck to everyone, and keep experimenting, it’s worth it!
Megan
What size of bail for a scrabble tile.? Will be using ball chain or satin cord.
I apologize if this is a repeat question – I did skim the posts and didn’t see this question.
Thanks – Missy
Help!!!!! PLEASE!
I did this and it came out fantastic. Until I woke up this morning to see how it was drying and underneath the Diamond Glaze coat it had a cloudy whiteish color. :’( What did I do wrong/how can this be avoided??
Thanks!
Marie- thank you so much. I’ll be sure to check that easy shop out and ask there. I just asked my mom which type of glaze she bought and she said she couldn’t find the diamond glaze so they told her at michaels to purchase paper glaze by aleene? ( I know, how can you make something and not even notice it’s a different glaze?) lol. But anyways, I’ve ordered diamond so im hoping maybe the brand differs the end result. Thanks again for your reply!
I love these little pendants!!! They are so adorable. I have one of my own that I bought, and I just love it!
Hi, Could you tell me where I
i’m going to give this a try…what size bail is best? small or medium?
Can you use a photo instead of paper?
I found a bag of 60 little wooden tiles at michaels in their “wood” area. they have numbers, but no points, on the back and are really close to the same size as scrabble tiles. they were $4.00. they also come in a bag of colored tiles.
Hi, I’m planning on making some of these for christmas, and I was wondering whether I could use something other than scrabble pieces, and if so, any ideas on what I could use? I wanted to make some of these that were in different shapes.
Help! We keep getting “bail” marks on our glass tiles. It’s a hit or miss problem. For example, we just created 35 tiles & four of them had the marks. What is causing this and how can we prevent this? Our creative process is as follows: adhere graphic to tile w/Diamond Glaze, trim & file edges, put 2 layers of Diamond Glaze on the backside, add additional water-proofing solution on the back & then when dry – glue our bails on with E6000. Again – hit or miss on bail marks! Can you help??????
Bail mark: appears the bail is eating through the layers……glittery marks (in the shape of the bail) on the graphic. HELP ! ! ! ! !
Sara
I’ve started building up an inventory of these pendants and love them. I use my own art photos. Here’s what is working very well for:
1. I print out my photos on gloss photo paper from my inkjet printer at the 17mm by 19mm size
2. Before cutting them out I apply one coat of ModPodge. I let this dry 24 hours.
3. Then I cut out my tiny pictures.
4. I use Diamond Glaze to glue them to the scrabble tile. I bought Diamond Glaze on Amazon.com and there are many sellers on Etsy from whom you can buy it. I let this dry 24 hours.
5. I use Diamond Glaze as the glassy resin: I hold the tile at a slight angle so I can see the surface well and apply the glaze over the whole surface. I use a very small artist paint brush to push the glaze along the edges of the tile. If there is an air bubble I pull it off using my brush. One set of how-to directions said to put on 2 coats of resin, but I don’t think it needs two coats.
6. I like to let my tiles dry for 3 days before gluing on the bail.
7. I use the large silver plated bail. I let the glue dry 24 hours.
8. Once the glue is dry I polish the pendants and they are ready!
Where do you get your paper? I have looked at ALL of the paper at Johanns and could not find anything like it. I absoulultely love the pink one with the two owls. :) thanks
Katie
Where do u find the images at? Are there actual cut out images the size of a tile to buy?
Made these for all our YW. Thanks for posting this idea! BUT had quite a few problems getting it done right the first time. Couldn’t find Diamond Glaze at Hobby Lobby, had to use Enviro-Tex Lite, which really is a pain. Melbell Oct. 29, 2008 comment on the “here” link above is very useful info. MY TIPS: When you stir Enviro-Tex as per box instructions, DO NOT make the mistake I did and stir TOO vigorously. I stirred like I was whipping eggs, or frosting. TOO MUCH, it creates millions of tiny air bubbles that will only come out if you use a heat gun. Blowing with hot breath does not cut it. I had to throw out my first batch of 35 because I didn’t have a heat gun. Bought a heat gun for the second batch. The heat gun really does do magic to get out air bubbles. I called the Enviro-Tech company and they told me to use plain Elmers Glue INSTEAD of Mod Podge because they say that their product does not always work well with Mod Podge. I used both and had better success with the Elmers Glue. With the Mod Podge, some of my scrabble tiles seemed to spot discolor around the edges of paper. I was told the Elmers might look a bit milky, but will clear up when you apply the Enviro-Tex. VERY IMPORTANT; I was also told that to help minimize bubbles I should put the two bottles of Enviro-Tex in a dish of warm water for a few minutes and then mix the two as per instructions (NOT too vigorously). When you pre-heat product it will make it slightly runnier, I only had a bubble here and there, BUT because the product is warm it will SET UP PRETTY FAST, so mix in smaller batches, AND WORK FAST!!
After seeing some scrabble tile pendants in a craft store, I was hooked! I decided I could make some. I already had the tiles and epoxy, so I was set! The epoxy my husband and I used, didn’t set up quite right. On a return trip to the craft store, we found a product called ICE Resin. It works GREAT! My husband does this part of the project. He puts a dab of resin in the middle of the tile and gently pushes it toward the edges. Once the edges are covered, he puts another dab in the middle. It self levels, and looks GREAT when dried. He mixed the resin in a container using popcicle stick to stir and used a torch to get bubbles reduced in the container before dropping onto tile. The popcicle stick works great for transferring the resin to the tile also. You have about 20-30 minutes work time once you mix the resin. We allowed the resin to cure for about 6 hours over low heat. We set them on a bolt which sat on a ceramic tile and set the whole works on a small heater on low. Be sure the tile is level or the resin won’t be level!
Lots of folks are asking about paper. I realized yesterday there are TONS of places to find designs. Try maps, old calendars, greeting cards, wrapping paper, postcards, sheet music, old recipe cards, wallpaper scraps, trael brochures, seed catalogs, magazines and even the inside of envelopes! Keep your eyes open. Yesterday I was eating a piece of chocolate that came wrapped in lightweight foil and made a nice pendant from the wrapper!!!
I’ve read thru every comment tonite and kept wondering over and over if you can’t just place the tiles in a food dehydrater? Seems the heat would set the resin faster than air drying. It would need to be clean tho so no dust or food residue flew thru the air and ruined the tiles! LOL Anxious to make some…
Also, love the eye bolts to attach at the top for pendants… how about on either side to attach as bracelets?
hi,
so i’ve been wanting to try this for a while, but I can’t seem to find diamond glaze in any craftstore near me. no one seems to know what it is.. so is there an alternative for diamond glaze.. maybe a different brand?
Try asking for a product called ICE Resin. It works well. I bought mine at a craft store, but it is not a big chain. Good luck!
Hi,
Beautiful work with a scrabble tile.
I would like to make some for the kids in my life , I wear the american sign language
sign for I love you around my neck always (the hand) and would love to find a graphic of that hand to put on a tile…. any suggestions?
Thanks in advance for your time, and for sharing your talent.
Pam
I have been doing this for a while but I cannot figure out how to shrink pictures down to the proper size without them getting pixelated. What do you do?
Hi Ladies!!! I to have a problem with thepaper bleeding but only with the pinks and reds it is weird!!! In addition i am having a problem with the center sinking in. I put a thin layer around the outside and the fill in to the middle. Looks fine but the when I ck it when its dry there it is sunk in int he middle so I add a second layer and add a little extra to the middle to fill it in and again looks good from the side until it dries!! HELP!!!!! Thanks ladies
Opps sorry lots of type o’s!!
I bought several of these from a crafter in the Bay Area and really wanted to make them myself, as I have several ideas of pictures to use… I’ve asked everywhere, everyone and then simply googled and found this instantly! You are terrific!
Thank you for sharing this. I am excited to start making my own.
where do I get the glass or plastic clear covers for the tiles? I have looked but to no avail thanks for your help
Try ETSY on the internet…I get everything there. I saw someone posted the sunmooncraft site…they are on etsy tooooo! Good luck
rubbernation has the resin stickers. Check them out online. We’ll be using those, since we’re making a bunch in bulk. Seems way easier. But the resin probably looks nicer, if done well.
Hi, I’ve been trying out the scrabble tile pendants and some came out very nicely but I just made 3, two days ago and they had no bubbles and now that I’ve waited for them to dry well went to check them and there’s a lot of tiny bubbles, do you know why that happened afterwards? do you have any advice? Thanks a lot.
I’ve been looking for simple instructions for this project! Thank you SO much!
I just started making these and I love it! I’m using the Sun And Moon brand glaze and it’s working great – no bubbles, I buy it directly from their website. They have a lot of other supplies that I use as well, Bethany told me about the site and it’s been a dream come true, their products and service are awesome. Here’s the website for those who don’t already know http://www.sunandmooncraftkits.com
DO NOT buy scrabble tiles from Hasboro!!!!!!!!! I placed my order of 100 scrabble tiles with them and I called to confirm they received my fax. They asked me for which scrabble game I was using the tiles for, I replied “Not for a game, I will use them to make art”. They said ok, they will arrive in 10 days. A week later they called me and told me that they rejected my order because I won’t be using them for the game. Really? Who are they to decide what I do with something I bought with my OWN money!!! This makes me mad especially since you can buy them everywhere and they are listed as “Great for Crafts”. You can buy them everywhere in Amazon, and Ebay. This is a better route and don’t give Hasboro your business!!!
I want to start making these. have wanted to for a long time now. Does any one use the epoxy self adhesives instead of the diamond glaze? I just wondered how that worked before I bought some.
Thanks.
we’re making these for Mother’s Day. I’m having the children draw pictures of themselves and their moms together and then I’m using a copier to shrink the images to fit the tiles. I’ve also seen them made using larger dominoes.
I’ve made these using my own images on card stock with a laserjet printer. They turned out great!
I tried making these last night using pictures printed from Walmart’s 1-hour photo on Matte Finish…
I made them following your directions, just like I’ve always done, and all 5 photo images have hundreds of tiny little bubbles on them. Is it because of the Matte Finish on the photos? Should I print opt to have Glossy Finish next time? I wanted to use my son’s picture for his sports events, and it just turned out awful. The other side of the pendant is great, but that’s because it’s just a printed image from the computer.
What happened with my photo side? Any help you can offer would be great!
Thank you in advance!
I know this is an older post but thought I would comment anyway. While I was blog surfing, I saw where someone had used embossing powder over the paper and put it in the oven. It created the glass like finish on the top. I wish I could remember where I saw it. I think it had something to do with bottle cap pendants. That may solve the problem of bubbles.
Great tutorial,
Renee
I have one question, I just went out and bought bails and the triple thick bc I couldnt find diamond glaze in the store. Anyways, do you apply the triple thick just like the diamond glaze or do you brush it on? Thanks!
Can’t wait to try these with our youth group. For those of you that drilled the eye hooks into the tiles themselves, how are they holding up? It seems to me like that would be sturdier than glueing the hooks to the back. Thanks again!
This is something i am going to try myself also, it’s nice to craft something like this!
I am using the scrabble tile pendant craft for girls camp. Previously I found a sheet to print out with this years art. of faith printed the size of the scrabble tile with the words all different directions and sizes. There were 56 on a page. DOES ANYONE KNOW WHERE THAT LINK WAS TO PRINT? Thanks.
I’m making these for girls camp too! We’re putting pins on the back though for trading pins. Was the 13th article of faith pendant art from Sugardoodle? Here’s the link:
http://www.sugardoodle.net/joomla/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=7092&Itemid=200102
Thank you so much! I’ve been wanting to make these and just finished my first few based on your directions! Thanks so much! :)
I’m about to make my first batch… couldn’t find Diamond Glaze or a metal file, so I’m going to wing it. I found something called Paper Glaze by Aleene’s, so I’m going to try that instead of DG. Also, Michael’s and AC Moore have “Scrabble” tiles in a package of 60, just go look in their woodpiece section. I also bought little hearts and circles.
In the scrapbooking cardstock section, I bought a glitter stack, but the pages are skinny, about 2-3 inches wide and a little over 12 inches long, so they’re perfectly and you don’t feel like you’re wasting a whole scrapbooking page for a little square.
I also couldn’t find the bails, so I bought some 1/2″ eye pins and square cast beads to superglue to the tile – hopefully they’ll work!
Wish me luck!
Stacey
I make handmade jewelry too… glass jewelry…. so this was fun for me.
http://haydenbrook.com
http://www.etsy.com/shop/haydenbrook
I’ve made some of these and now I am addicted! The only trouble I am having is that I can’t get the bail to adhere with super glue. Any other suggestions? I’ve got a bunch lined up that just need bails attached. Thanks a bunch!
use Aleene’s Jewel-It. It’s great, but unlike superglue, needs time to dry.
Karen
I just ordered 4 pendants from your etsy site. (Thanks to Heartsy!) I decided to google how to make the pendants and what popped up first on the search? THIS page/tutorial! Awesome! Thank you so much! I can hardly wait to get my order!
Thank you Amber! We hope you love your items!
ps If anyone else bought a Heartsy voucher ( http://heartsy.me/shops/141-homestudio ) and still needs to use it, please contact us directly. thanks!
ATTENTION….photo paper causes bubbles with diamond glaze. Not sure about the other glaze type products. I am using brochure and or flyer paper and it works much better.
Thanks sooo much. You have some xlnt tips to make the tiles look more professional and purty!!!
Oh, I just adore these! Thanks for the great instructions. I think I might need to hunt for a new Scrabble game – my wooden version is likely to start missing letters…
This is very useful for me as a business woman I always search on internet about this kind of tutorial The tips presented here is really wonderful! I have
Bookmarked this webpage and will be included to my collection.
What sizes would a photo need to be adjusted to fit on a scrabble tile?
We feel that working with 350×350 or 320×350 pixels will work best. This will give you enough room to trim the image.
I find Michaels to be very expensive. A great place to buy all kinds of craft supplies is Etsy.com I buy all my bails and glazes from there. Prices for 20 bails start at $1.25. Scrabble tiles start at $1.25 for 25. Sun and Moon supplies has a beautiful crystal clear glaze that looks wonderful on pendants for $6.75. One bottle will make hundreds of pendants.
I use an inkjet printer for my images and the best advice I ever got was to coat the image with plain white glue and then let dry. It works perfectly to prevent bleeding and smudging and it is not toxic which is great!
planning to take this idea and run with it, Christmas gifts here we come!!! Thanks for the bright idea!!!
You could even spell the name on one side and reverse to the other side with decorated tiles on the other side. The creative juices are flowing!!!
My sisters and I always get together once a year for a “sisters weekend” and playing scrabble is one game we always do. I want to make them all one of these pendants, but I would like to use the letter of their name for the other side of the tile and would like for the letter to show, do you have another suggestion as to what to use besides the silver ball?
Thanks
I used this tutorial to make the scrabble pendants and it was GREAT! I believe this is an amazing idea for birthday gifts and such. I just have one question: Is the diamond glaze supposed to be liquidy? Thanks for posting this! I’ve always wanted to know how to make these :)
Hi Bekah, yes the Diamond Glaze is a liquid and then hardens up. Hope this helps.
Im a scrapbooker and I am terribly psyched by this idea. I’ll be making my scrabble tiles with creative designs and instead of making a pendant out of it I’ll be pasting it in my layout! Thanks for the idea!
I saw these wonderful pendants in Ellicot City, MD, came straight home and did a search for info on them, and found you guys – Thank you simply is not enough. My mother, who is 94, has played Scrabble with all of us – grand kids, great grandkids, nieces, nephews, etc etc since we were all babies. Even with ALZ, she is still playing and just beat the pants off of me 2 weeks ago. She is such a treasure to her family, beloved, and enjoyed by all – this is the perfect ‘memory’ gift for all of them this year. I have a lovely picture of her taken at a recent wedding. We know we only have a short time left with her and everyone is spending as much time with her as we can – this is just such a wonderful way of keeping her close to our hearts. I cannot thank each and every single one of you for all the wonderful comments, tips, and directions to supplies. I’ll post a picture when mine are finished.
That is so beautiful GennyMac!
Hello everyone. I glad I found your tutorial and (what is more important) your comments. I am not pendant maker :) I sell digital images for pendants including scrabble tile pendants. I have received many question about printer: what kind of printer do you use, what kind of paper do you use. But I have newer done any pendant :) So I think I will open FAQ section on my digitalimages.bestpeople.ca website and refer my buyers to your very helpful comments. Thanks a lot!
http://digitalimages.bestpeople.ca
http://artvision.etsy.com
I WAS WONDERING IF U CAN USE A PIC INSTEAD OF THE PAPER
How many mm should the jewelry bails be? Cause they sell them all different sizes.
Thanks!
We use the small size of Aanraku brand bails. They measure 6 x 15mm (hole is about 3.7 x 2.9mm). You can also use the medium size if using a cord or ribbon instead of a chain. It’s really your choice for style, scale and aesthetics. Oh and be sure to use only lead-free bails, as there are many brands out there now.
for anyone out there having problems with the diamond glaze and/or doesn’t want to use resin, i have been using ultra thick embossing powder! i put a little bit of clear embossing ink on the picture on my tile, then pour a good layer of the UTEP on top (have found putting the powder in a little squeeze bottle helps). let it set for a few seconds, then pop the tile (on a foil lined cookie sheet) into a 350 degree oven for a few minutes. once the embossing powder turns clear, leave in oven for a few seconds more to help even it out. after it’s cool (takes only a couple minutes), the coating will be completly hard and ready to be put on a necklace cord!
Mark and Stefani, I just wanted to say thank you for the great tutorial and for everyone’s comments. I’ve wanted to do these for a couple years and finally went for it this weekend. One weekend and 3 craft stores later, I’ have about 20 tiles finished and they are too cute. Your trick about making the template and bringing it to the store was INVALUABLE. With it, I discovered that the designs on about 95% of the papers I wanted were too large and I will be creating some of my own soon.
I also wasn’t able to find Diamond Glaze (though the gentleman at Hobby Lobby had heard of it) and too impatient, I went with Triple Thick. Seems to be working just fine. I take a small brush and glop a couple blobs into the middle and then gently push it out to the edges. Not quite as perfect (errant tiny bubble) and requires a few coats but the tiles still look beautifully shiny and you would have to hold it against the light about 3 inches from your face to see the imperfections.
Thank you again!
i used dominoes as well as scrabble pieces. I could not find any diamond glaze or anything like it and i was in a pinch so i used a thick layer of tacky glue and it worked pretty well. So if your in a bind go ahead and try that.
not sure if you answer questions, but I need cash badly — does anyone think or have even a ballpark guess as to whether this fad — very ute fad — will be over by Christmas. I have been burned by things going out as I get them on the market – in the red !
thanks hatty
Question to folks. I am using Sun & Moons Glass Glaze… No matter how much I follow the instructions it is still showing some air pockets or spackle marks on the photo. I have read the instructions over and over to a T… I drop the pendant onto the image, just move it a tiny bit to center, NO pressure at all and yet they still come out with spakled marks on them where there is some air there… Then I experimented with doing it other ways to no avail. Any help would be much appreciated on how to use Glaze with glass pendant covers…
i am having a problem with sparkle marks and air pockets when i apply self-adhesive epoxy dots to findings. i have also tried using mod podge on the epoxy dots to make sure i have a good adhesion but this too does not work. i hope someone replys to your question with some kind of answer. i know our technique is different but i feel like i’m the only one having this problem with the stickers.
I found scrabble sized epoxy stickers on line, and they look JUST like poured resin–only nice and clean without bubbles. Even smell like epoxy! LOL I can whip up a pendant in about 5 minutes, and it makes a fun craft for my kiddos, too, without the epoxy mess. :o)
There is a product out there called Glossy Accents that you can use instead of Diamond Glaze. I actually think it works better and I never have a problem with bubbles. You can get it at Michael’s or I’m sure at any craft store.
I have a problem with the diamond glaze sinking in the middle. Has anyone else had this issue?
Hello!
I’m having the darnedest time getting my bails to stick. I have tried three different brands of superglue, plus gorilla glue and krazy glue, and sooner or later they all separate. I havr tried using very little glue, and I’ve tried using a whole lot of glue, and just about everything in between, with no luck. What’s the secret?? I’m placing the tiles underneath a solid marble tile while the glue is drying just to be sure they’re held down flat. I apologize if this question has been asked and answered, but I didn’t see it when I looked at the posts.
Here are some tips…
Try a gel style of glue. You can also put the glue on the wood first, let it “cure” for a minute or so, then place the bail on. Let it dry for at least an hour. Another option is to rough up the wood were the glue will go. The tiles will most likely have a clear coat that might need to be removed depending on their age. You may also put a small amount of glue on the top edge of the tile where the bail will also touch.
Going to Beverly’s Crafts right now! Thanks for the tip….they have the Mod Podge and Diamond Glaze. Might get the Inkssentials glaze – what’s it called? I think it works too. Thanks! – E
Ingenuity!What about with a ribbon bow more?
If you’d like to try a different and very inexpensive wood tile – go to TJMaxx, Marshalls, Home Goods, Walmart – any store like these and purchase a wood tile place mat. They are strung together with plastic string which once you start snipping away you’ll have all the tiles you’ll need PLUS predrilled holes for making your charms/pendants for bracelets or necklaces. There were some square tile mats and but there was an abundance of rectangular shapes that allowed for larger picture detail. I found preprinted cardstock stickerpads with monograms or single words like : “laugh” life” “joy” – all types from spiritual themed to whimsical themed words. No worries on searching the web for clip art and not a single one
bled. The ones I did with little monkeys on them my granddaughters liked the best!
Has anyone ever thought of using nail polish top coat instead of Diamond Glaze? I have, and it seems to work pretty well. So far, I haven’t seen a flaw in this, other than that maybe you have to add a couple layers to get that 3-dimensional, rounded look. All you have to do is dip the brush until it is as saturated as can be, then brush on a very small part with each dip. Then it works just as well as squirting it on like with Diamond Glaze.
That is a nice alternative. We did try this once a while ago. Be sure it doesn’t yellow over time. I’m sure there are some non-yellowing lacquers out there. Experimenting is great!
So, for those of you who have made a lot of these, how many can you make with a 2oz bottle of the Diamond Glaze?? Our MOPS group is going to make these for a craft day that I am in charge of and I only bought two bottles so now I’m worried it will not be enough! I need to plan for approximately 35 women….Any insight would be great!
Thanks!
Crystal Effects by Stampin’ Up! Works perfectly and no strong odor! It’s awesome! Precious idea. I buy scrabble and other games at 2nd hand stores all the time. I love to collect the pieces in giant glass cookie jars!
I love making these. I just found an awesome website called Sun And Moon Craft Kits, they have a lot of unique supplies for making many different types of pendants, and their prices are very good. The girl who runs it is named Gina, she offers top quality customer service and went out of her way to be sure that I got everything that I needed. They also have an awesome Faceboook page that is very active. I just thought that I’d share this even though it has been mentioned several times here. Here is their website link: http://www.sunandmooncraftkits.com
Bev
I’m thinking about trying to make my own pendants, but using the epoxy stickers rather than trying to do the resin (I’m somewhat clumsy and letting me loose around something like that is not a good idea). Does anyone know if the epoxy stickers will work well if tiny rhinestones have been glued on to the tile? Thanks!
~ Sarah
Why not use a little silver bezel tape and solder a nice little sterling border around the tiles like a frame?
I liked this tutorial compared to the ones I found on Google.com. This is a way better way to make the necklaces!
@Sarah (#345). The epoxy stickers have to be placed on a flat surface, so there can’t be rhinestones on the face of the tile.
I ONLY use resin for my pendants, as the resin sustains long-term wear and even can survive the washer & dryer (as my friends have accidentally washed their pendants). I use ICE resin since it is jewelry grade and will not yellow over time. You can add rhinestones to resin as it dries and they are permanently embedded.
Awesome idea….thanks for sharing! I wondered what I was going to do with my left over tiles that I didnt use from my first necklace project…now I can use the letters that didnt get bought or given away and use them up this way. Cant wait to get started, I have everything already needed…….!
I am trying to make a piece of artwork with scrabble letters in front of a picture. I’d like to attach the letters in a grid that holds the letters, allowing them to be changed (rather than fixed permanently) and it needs to be clear (so as to be able to see the picture behind). Does anyone know if such a clear scrabble grid exists? and if so where I can get one..?
Many thanks
I am making a piece of artwork with scrabble letters in front of a picture. I would like to know if there is anywhere I can get a clear grid to hold the letters. Clear so that the picture can be seen. the grid needs to hold the scrabble tiles, but allow for them to be re-arranged. Does anyone know if such a thing exists? and if so where I can get one..?
Thanks
LOVE this…I am off and running with many more embellishments…LOVE LOVE LOVE it! One question – on my first dozen trial tiles I noticed that I had a small dip in the center of the tile. I re-read your (very helpful) tutorial and see that I should have added an extra dot in the center even after I thought it was completely covered. Question: Can I go back and add a second coat to try to even it out….or am I better off to leave it alone? Not sure anyone would notice…I noticed because I am inspecting it up close and at all angles. What do you think? Thank you!
So I brought one scrabble charm on eBay for 10 bucks and I have
Around 6 more on my watch list for the same price, so I’m thinking it would be a lot cheaper to make them myself. I read how to make them( which makes me kinda I’ll because
I’m horrible at crafts and seems kinda alot of work) but the real question I have is where to
Find the images. Do they come already made or do you cut them fromagazines or print them which seems like wouldn’t print very well and how do you mAke images small
I figure id bespending about 80 bucks to buy the charms so I might as well try it myself
Please help
Great info