Back in the Studio

Phew. I’ve had a nice break. My sister is back to health, the convention is well over and things have settled down slightly except of course my work project which is now going full steam ahead. We’re trying really hard to finish it for an autumn release. It’s looking great and I am really pleased with it so far.

This weekend I had time to play with some silver and try out a few things that have been playing on my mind. It’s great to get back in the swing and see new things come to life. I have signed up for a course in metal clay, mainly to be forced to try out some new things and to see how other jewellers view my work. This can sometimes be scary, but they have been very supportive so far.

The earrings above are now in the shops. I’m happy with the design and toying with the idea of making more in a similar configuration; Silver sculpted stud adorned with a drop stone. I like the way it feels more secure because it is a stud, but still dangles as if it was on a French wire.

hollow core bead. New technique for me

Metal Clay Rings

I've been practising making rings. 
I love rings better than any jewellery. They seem even more than other pieces to be mostly for the wearer's enjoyment. Small treasures you have in and on your hand, the texture and feel of it within easy reach. They can be played with and rotated as you think. I love them.

Of course they are also one of the hardest things to make, because they have to be a particular and precise size.
When making rings with metal clay, there is so much scope for creating embellishments and exciting textures, but it is not easy to plan what size they will have when they come out of the kiln.

My solution is to make lots of them. It's fun anyway. I keep a meticulous log of firing temperatures and ring sizes before and after. I am getting closer to a good understanding of the results my kiln gives me.
When I am more confident of a consistent result I will be offering made to size rings. 

For now I will be putting the finished rings in the shop as one-size-only ready-to-ship. All these rings are one of a kind and unique, so more special to the receiver I'm hoping, and I get to make lots of different designs while I practise.