the ReFab Diaries

Here's the third and final installment in the series of Finch's Threadless tutorials... a statement geometric necklace. I really love this piece - lots of work but worth it, I think!

For all the basics of working with aluminum cans please see this tutorial. However, DO NOT apply dimensional magic until you've made all the holes in the beads. Read on...

If you know me (or you've read my bio) then you know I love good beer. Emphasis on good... really good. And since I live in Chicago, I'm spoiled for choice when it comes to local craft breweries, creating amazing brews. Great branding (visual design and names) seems to go hand-in-hand with craft brewing. I'm always entertained (and impressed by) the packaging, the quirky names and the rich, fun descriptions of each beer.

Finch's has been around since 2009. I'm no expert, but they seem to have made their mark very quickly!  And the collaboration with Threadless in 2011 (to create a branded IPA) produced not only a great beer, but a really inspiring collection of designs. When I saw the winning can, I thought jewelry! Yup. I really did. Ever since I posted a collection of "upcycled can" ideas, I've been wanting to try it myself. Apparently I finally found my inspiration! So, over the course of the next week, I'll post tutorials for each of the pieces you see above. As each one goes live, so will the links below so please check back!

Ours is a story of logic and magic; the logic of recycling our rubbish using the magic of imagination, creativity and finally, plenty of passion! The result is a bouquet of colourful, well designed sculptures, household items, fashion accessories and bespoke pieces.