Archive for the ‘Design Process’ Category
The Story of My Bracelets
My staple always-sell pieces are bracelets using memory wire, a stiff wire that retains its circular shape,and beads. For some reason women really love them and are willing to pay $35 to $50 for one. They are comfortable and easy to wear. The technique for making the bracelets is very easy and usually takes about two hours. Simply cut the wire, make a loop with pliers at one end, slide the beads onto the wire, finish with another loop. The real work is in creating a one of a kind unique piece each time.
Working With Silver Clay
In the previous post I mentioned metal clay as one of the jewelry media that I like working with. One comment asked about it. This post chronicles my first attempts with precious metal clay (PMC). Metal clay seems to be a mistake when one first hears of it. 
Briefly, it is actual powdered metals, most often silver because of the cost but also gold and most recently bronze, mixed with clay and water. The clay can be molded, shaped, and carved then dried. It is then fired in a kiln or with a handheld torch or small gas fired stove depending on the type of clay. The clay burns away leaving sterling silver or 14k gold. The clay can be combined with wire and with some very hard gemstones. The ring at left, Twisted Twig Ring, is made from sterling silver wire and precious metal clay. The wire formed the basis for the ring and the clay, in the form of a paste, was used to fuse the wire. I polished and shaped and sized the ring with filing.
Design Work
I am experiencing some difficulty in regaining a bit of focus regarding jewelry designs. I have not done anything unique for months. 
I have been thinking about previous designs, scanning my supply sources, and surveying all the lovely stones I have in my trove.
Northern Lights
Bracelet For White Mist of Cotter and the Trout Festival
