This necklace is a simple and striking way to display a large gemstone
donut. Using only “cold connections” like rivets, staple and
crimps we will make a unique sterling silver two-piece riveted bail,
with a hand stamped design.
The silver bail can be customized by using different stamps or texture
hammers on the metal. Changing the shape of the cutouts
along the edge for other shapes as triangles or ovals, can also make
each pendant unique.
This project is about using a large gemstone donut as the focal piece
of a cuff bracelet.
Reticulation on silver is a process that results in a heavily textured
metal sheet.
This method produces one-of-a-kind pieces, that are very dramatic and organic
looking.
The tutorial is an instant downloading PDF file, it has 10 pages, 27 photos, a life size template of all the components and plenty of tips!
Includes two mini tutorials.
For intermediate skill students.
Foldforming is a technique that lets you turn a flat sheet of metal into a three dimensional object.
This way of manipulating sheet metal can also add a lot of texture to it.
In this tutorial we will fold a piece of metal sheet many times to give it a eye catching texture.
We will add to this texture with stamped designs intermixed with the folds.
Once finished with the textured metal sheet we will cut out and shape a pair of round cabochons and a tear-shaped one.
The cabochons will then be framed in sterling silver using a combination bezel-tab setting for a spectacular set of earrings and pendant.
The step-by-step instructions includes how to apply and preserve colored patinas for a different look on the copper cabochons.
This tutorial is an instant downloading PDF file. It has 16 pages, 54 photos and life size template of all the components. For intermediate skill students.
This cuff bracelet was inspired by the inlay stone cuff bracelets made by the Native American Zuni tribe from the
New Mexico area.
The Zuni were lapidary masters. They did stone inlay on shell bases and later on in silver.
Inlay consists in bringing together multiple colored stones to form a design or pattern.
There are three major types of inlay: channel, mosaic or “stone to stone” inlay, cobblestone or raised inlay and
chip.The tutorial is an instant downloading PDF file, it has 10 pages, 24 photos, a life size template of all the components and plenty of tips! It comes with a Bonus Mini Tutorial to make your own mandrel. For beginner skill students.
I wanted a pair of stud earrings that where small enough to have
some type of metal or beaded dangles. One of the ideas I had,
was making some small “organic” element without having to cast
from “live” plants. Experimenting to make these “twigs” was fun,
and opened a whole new set of ideas to try out. Like using the
“twigs” with foldformed copper leaves dangles. The metal leaves
could be enameled or treated with colored patinas. The twig circles
can also be used with lampwork drops, head pins with or without
threaded beads. So if you have off-mandrel drops or glass
head pins this is the project for you!