Washer Necklaces

I was introduced to these handmade pretties at one of my MOPs meetings and after some trial and error I tweaked my technique and decide to make a bunch for Christmas gifts. I was bad again and did not take step-by-step photos, but the instructions are pretty easy to follow.

You'll need:
-washers, any size will work
-scrapbook paper
-modge podge
-foam brush
-an exacto knife
-fine grit sand paper
-Mod Podge Dimensional Magic (or similar product found at the craft store)
-charms (optional)

Start by laying your washer down on top of the scrapbook paper and use the exacto knife to cut around the washer. It pays to have a good blade on your knife for this, especially when you have to tackle that inner circle.

Once you are satisfied with the circle you cut (I promise, it'll get better with practice!) use your foam brush to apply a thin layer to your washer and then adhere your paper to the top of the washer. Let dry for 5 minutes or so.

After the paper is dry, I used a piece of sand paper to smooth out the paper edges around the washer. Don't be too aggressive or you will be peeling your paper off and starting over.

Next, use the Dimensional Magic to apply a layer on top of the scrapbook paper. Do the entire outer edge first, then go around the inner edge before filling in the center. Also try not to lift the tip up once you have started to minimize the bubbles. If you do end up with a few bubbles simply use a needle to pop them.

Now you wait. I like to give them a full 24 hours to cure. I'm not sure this is entirely necessary, but I did have a few that had to be redone because they weren't entirely dry when I tried to work with them again.

I added a charm to the center of all of mine to give them a little something extra, but it is your preference. I made a few out of smaller washers for little girls. To cut costs I also made all of the chains, but you can buy inexpensive chains or even use one that you already own. I love how they all turned out!