Bits of Brass to Embellish the Bling!

I like to use brass rod to make the legs for the bees. It is strong, yet  easy to bend to shape, and can stand numerous adjustments before failing. It is easy to attach by simply drilling a hole in the body the same diameter as the brass rod to be used, and firmly pushing it in. I use a drop of CA glue in the hole prior to insertion to help secure it in place, and another small drop at the surface after it's installed. With the glue all set I can now bend the legs to shape, cut off any extra length, and dull the free ends. The finish paint and following matte varnish sealer also serves to help secure the legs in place.

Drilling 1/16" holes for the legs.

Drilling 1/16" holes for the antennas.

The same process is used to attach the antennae on the head.  Both the antennae and legs are made with 1/32" diameter rods/wire.  As before these holes are made with a drill bit in my Dremel tool because it gives more control, holding the bee in one hand, and the Dremel in the other.

The last bit of detail is a small stinger in the end of the abdomen. You need to sand a little flat on the pointed end tilted slightly downward. I use an awl to make a little hole to start the drill ion the flat so that it doesn't jump all over the place when starting. Same deal as before, drill the hole, push in the wire wetted by a little CA glue, cut the excess off, and dull the exposed end.  I find while the bee itself is less than spectacular, observes are taken by a little detail like the stinger and overlook the overall simplicity of the bee!

A bunch of bees with brass bits installed, ready for paint. Notice the evidence of CA glue around the antennas and legs.