Sunday, April 24, 2011

Volcano Arts Part I

I am home from my week long class at Volcano Arts.   My creative juices are flowing and my mind is trying desperately to keep up!  I had a fabulous time learning some basic metalsmithing with cold connections.

I managed to complete 3 pieces of jewelry and came home with another one partially done.  I'm planning a series of blog posts (3 or 4) to cover all that I want to share with you about my week -- I hope I keep it interesting enough that you'll stick with me throughout.

There was only one other student in the class, so we each had a lot of one-on-one time with Christine, our instructor.  This really worked to my advantage, as well as the fact that I had some very specific ideas as to what I wanted to make.  I had even done some sketches -- I rarely do that, but I think that might change now.

The processes involved in my first project included etching, sawing, filing, riveting and patinating.  I had big plans to photograph each step, but I completely forgot about that, so all I have are photos of the finished product.


This angled photo shows you the dimension I was able to achieve with the design.  I sawed the circle, including the bail, using a jeweler's saw.  This gave me an immense amount of confidence in my sawing abilities and it was a great way to start the week.  The domed piece in the center is a piece of brass that I etched using a gorgeous rubber stamp.  It is actually a large rubber stamp -- this small piece was stamped out using a circle cutter.  You'll see where I use more of that etched image in my next project - stay tuned!

Here's a view of the back, showing you some complex sawing for a beginner like me.  The base piece is copper that I patinated.  The rivet is one I made from brass wire.  Yes, the back of the bail is quite scratched.  I learned that it's easier (and a whole lot smarter) to avoid making scratches in the first place, than it is to remove them later. 


One more photo of the completed piece.  Not bad for a freehand sawed circle, huh?


9 comments:

Brandi Hussey said...

Whoa!! Look at you, Miss Vicki - how fun is this! Can't wait to see and hear more about your class!!

brokenteepee said...

It's gorgeous! You really have a talent for this and I can't wait to see what you produce.

Kristin Summerlin said...

Lovely piece, and I'm so glad you came back inspired! Hope I can do something similar someday soon. The wholesale biz is grinding. Look forward to further posts!

Cthings said...

WOW Vicki those are so cool! I need to take some more classes but its the money. I'm looking forward to seeing what else you will make. Enjoy your week!

shari said...

Awesome piece!! You and only one other person? That must have been fabulous as a student! (I feel bad for Christine, though, as I know she likes to have at least 6 peeps in class.) Wish I had been able to go!!

Can't wait to see the rest of your posts for the class!!

xox

Evie's Tool Emporium said...

Glad you had an opportunity to spend a week focusing on your creative side!

Unknown said...

You rock my dear! I'm so glad you had a great time. I'm looking forward to seeing you soon.

Brenda. said...

Check you out Vicki! What a beautiful piece you created! You go girl! :)

Christine Cox said...

Vicki, it was a blast having you here. I can't wait to see what you do next time. You have a great eye and are a very creative woman.