Monday, December 28, 2015

Spark Plug Gap Tool Necklace - Gift For An Auto Mechanic

Hey, I bet you know someone who loves to tinker with car engines.  What if you could make that wonderful person a gift that doubles as an auto mechanic's tool?

Such as this keychain.


That interesting-looking base is a mechanic's tool called a spark plug gap gauge.  I am told that it gauges spark plug gaps.  (Me, I have my doubts.  I think it's some kind of secret decoder disc.  Definitely espionage-related.  Shh.  Don't spread it around.)



Anyway, isn't it cool looking?  I would wear one myself...take a peek at this pretty, steampunk-esque necklace version:



But it's not about me!  It's about that mechanically inclined individual who is super hard to buy for.  You can make that person this awesome gift in 5 minutes or less - NO TOOLS NEEDED!  Just your two little hands.

Here's the simple DIY.

Add the spark plug tool onto a really big jump ring.  Then add a charm or two or three, like so:




Swivel the jump ring closed.  With a jump ring this large, you can just use your fingers (if you like, get an assist from a pair of jewelry pliers).



Now simply add it to a necklace or carabiner, and you have made your five minute spark plug gap gauge jewel!




Tip #1: Get these at any auto supply store - they are usually on the counter and cost a couple of bucks.

Tip #2: There's a reason for the extra-big jump ring, so don't try to go smaller.  It allows all the charms to swing free of the measuring tool when it's being used for...whatever it does.

Tip #3: For a key chain, avoid charms made of fragile materials, because it will likely live in a pocket with a mess of coins, keys, nuts and bolts.

For a manly necklace, string your focal on paracord, ball chain or suede.  Or try a strung necklace, as in this one made of leather and antiqued bone beads:


Okay, that's the big idea - have fun and please let me know if you figure out how the decoder function works.

8 comments:

  1. Leave it up to you to find something so jewelry worthy on the auto parts store counter. You must go back and set up a key ring/necklace display showcasing your creations.

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  2. This is a goldy! A spark plug necklace! where were you when all the mechanic movies got made and they wanted something special for the rugged yet good hearted hero?? LOL

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  3. Replies
    1. Thanks so much, Hana! I agree, sometimes tools are little tiny pieces of art just by themselves.

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  4. Super cool. Now I have to start visiting the auto parts store.

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  5. Oh wow that is so cool. I love this and I will have to make my own version! Thank you for sharing Mich L!

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  6. This is so cute dear Mich, You did great job!

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  7. Really cool! So creative. Have a great weekend :)

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