Beginning Metalsmithing

 I recently started taking a metalsmithing class at the Cultural Arts Center in Columbus.  It has been a great learning experience since I've often wanted to be able to create my own metal components for my earrings, and I never knew how this was done.  Our first project was a tab-link bracelet.  I made several "links" shaped like clouds with lightning coming out of the bottom.  The lightning created the tab that linked to the next cloud.  However, I somehow lost one of my cloud/lightning links which made the bracelet too small for anyone to wear.  So, I took it apart and made earrings.  I'm still not completely pleased with how they look.  Our second project aimed to teach us how to rivet.  You can see my piece to the left.  With this project, I decided to keep it simple.  I used a strip of nickel, a strip of copper, and two wirewrapped garnet briolettes.  You can see the rivets toward the bottom of the copper.  Right now, the piece is a pendant.  However, because it's front-heavy, it falls to the side when I wear it.  I'm considering changing it to a pin or brooch.  Any other ideas of what I can do with it? 

Comments

[andreanna]

If it is strong enough I would use it as a jewelry display for photos!

[Cara]

I think it would look cool as a hook for necklaces on a wall.

[Alexandra]

Thank you so much for your comment! I'm trying to shelter my son from his grandparents! I hate favoritism!

[Deb DiSalvo]

That's so awesome you're taking the metalsmithing glass - I'm sooooo jealous and look what you've made! Gorgeous! Very cool!
Cheers,
Deb