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.
I usually decide on a base color palette and select a primary bead. These tend to be six or eight millimeter and either round or rondelle, a slightly flattened bead, usually a gemstone such as agate or jasper. I typically use a mixture of metals including sterling silver, pewter, copper, and gold. I… Continue reading
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… Continue reading
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.
I want my designs to be unique, touchable, beautiful to see and comfortable to wear. I want designs that endure the current fashion colors and styles so that it will not end up under a pile of newer things by the end of the year. Finally, I want each piece to have an owner out there unknown when I make it but who will ultimately find it and love it. In the case of commissions I really try to get a sense of the person so that the piece I make is uniquely her own.
I prefer organic and natures contributions to components such as the… Continue reading
ADHD Brains Are Different
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