3D Layered Veneer Earrings „Venearrings"

In 2014 I made a feather shaped earrings out of beef leg bone for my wife as a Christmas present.

https://www.instructables.com/id/Feather-shaped-bon...

I realy enjoyed the entire making process and finaly see the gladness on her face and how proudly she wear it. So I decided to make it a tradition to give own handmade gift.

This year I got some nice 0.6 mm thin veneers, mahogany, walnut and maybe oak. I thinked to myself to take a try with them.

Step 1: Materials, Tools, Template

So I have some 0.6 mm thin wood veneers. Wanted to make something interesting, geometrical, easy. I found this design that gave the inspiration:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/159103799312833800/

Quickly draw the layers as a template with different oriented cutouts.

Tools and materials You need

jewellers saw with wood blade
small, really small needle files
needle polishing stick
hobby knife (I prefer OLFA)
rotary tool with small drill bit (1-2 mm)
clamps
bench pin
vise
masking tape
some veneers You like
wood glue
superglue

3D_layered_veneer_earrings_v1.pdf
Download

Step 2: Prepare the Layers

The final design have 3*3 layers. Glue 3 layers of veneer together with wood glue. Pay attention to wood grain directions and make it different angles for stronger structure. I knew that but forgot to do so I had some issues later. On the mahogany the glue percolated through the veneer and sticked to the paper. It's not a problem, a little sanding solved it.

Step 3: Cutting, Shaping and Beveling

Now we have laminates with 3 layer veneers. Carbon copy the templates on it, or use masking tape to the surface and glue the printed template on it. This method would be better for small pieces like these, gives more precision and additional strength during sawing.

Drill holes to allow the saw blade and cut out the layout. Fine the edges with needle files and add bevel to it, round it if You want. A banch pin is a good support for this process too. If the wood cracks repair it with superglue. Will not be visible after sanding.

Step 4: Glue Main Layers and Finish

Glue together the 3 main layers, You can play the sequence of these. After the glue cured file the final shape and bevel the edges. Polish the whole thing with polishing papers and finaly needle polishing stick. You can add a touch of citron oil to the surface, it protects it, brings out the grains and smells good.

Step 5: Make the Metal Hangers Unique and Matching to the Pendants

I started with a stock metal hanger with a small plate in it that can hold some inlay. I wanted to see through on it as on the pendant, so I cut it out and fine filed. Made a small variant of the pendant design out of 3*1 layer veneer. Glue, shape and fit inside the hanger with sandpaper and files. Conclusion: it's not easy to work with veneers in this small size.