***(Remember, this is humor. The show is making fun out of what you and I are persueing as our livelihoods.)
Showing posts with label Artisan Jewelry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Artisan Jewelry. Show all posts
Monday, April 15, 2013
Portlandia Video "She's Making Jewelry Now"
I have all ready shared this video on my Facebook so some of you may have all ready seen this. It is from an American television show called Portlandia. This show is very unusual, strange, weird, and funny. I have an unusual sense of humor so I really like this video. I hope you like it too.
***(Remember, this is humor. The show is making fun out of what you and I are persueing as our livelihoods.)
***(Remember, this is humor. The show is making fun out of what you and I are persueing as our livelihoods.)
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Artist Interview: Gena Robinson of Moonkist Designs
The following post is a blog interview with the talented jewelry
artisan, Gena Robinson of Moonkist Designs. Gena currently resides in Greer, South Carolina, US.
-Gena, when did you begin making jewelry?
My family belonged to a local Gem and Mineral club when I was young, and I was lucky enough to learn how to cut cabochons and facet stones when I was about 12. After that, I had a drive to make things from the stones I had created. I started with elaborate bead looming projects, and setting stones in wirewrapping, which I learned from a sweet lady at the Gem Club. I was eventually hired to work in a jewelry store, owned by members of the same club. From there, it wasn't long before I discovered the bench and the process of silversmithing!
-Out of all the artistic mediums you could have chosen, why did you decide to create jewelry?
I have other creative hobbies, such as crochet, quilting and scrapbooking, but jewelry has been the thing that has consistently woken me up at night with new ideas. I love that there are so many disciplines to learn, so many things to try. I will learn my entire life, and still not master them all, and that makes me excited and happy. It never gets boring, and I never find myself halfway through a piece and having to goad myself to finish - unlike some of my crochet projects!
-Did
you study or mentor with one artisan in particular?
My mentor for many years has been William Churlik, the founder of Earthspeak Arts in Asheville, NC. This gentleman was the bench jeweler in the jewelry store where I was hired as a teen, and he has been routinely teaching me and helping me figure out challenging pieces for over 20 years. I taught beginning silversmithing with his school for 3 years, before they had to close due to the economy.
-Do you do this full-time or part-time?
If full-time means 40 hours per week, then yes, I do work full time! I am working on growing my business this year so that it can be my only job. Currently, I also work as a personal assistant to a New York Times bestselling novelist and his family, and spend part of my week with them, then work Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and part of Sunday in my studio.
-Is there anyone in particular that has influenced your style of jewelry making?
When I was first learning, my teacher had a knock-off artist on his hands. I copied every one of his designs, so that I could learn how things were made, often making them in copper. Luckily, after several years of designing and working on my own, I tend to have more of my own personal style, but I still find his teaching in my approach to design. (Thank you, dear Bill!) Also, I am particularly drawn to the architectural designs of Zaha Hadid. I adore the fluid lines and grace that her designs evoke, even in a medium as solid as concrete and steel.
-Is there anyone else’s jewelry work that you admire?
Enamelist Ricky Frank, whose miniature paintings in glass are breathtaking. Charles Lewton-Brain, who pioneered the processes of fold-forming and encourages everyone who approaches him. James Binnion, whose designs are simple and uncluttered and let the beauty of the mokume gane metal show. And my friend Emilie Berls, who has a quirky and delightful playfulness in her work that I admire greatly.
-What are your main sources of inspiration?
Functional objects that are beautiful because of their design, like sink faucets. Historical jewelry. Nature walks with my dog. Calligraphy, which I have done since I was in my teens, and always makes for interesting design beginnings...Pretty much, everything!
-How did you choose the name for your Shop?
Long running joke...I used to drink a ton of Diet Sunkist soda, and I'm a night owl...*grin*
-How would you describe your jewelry’s style?
Funny you should ask...the best word I have come up with is eclectic. I like to make things with clean and modern lines, but also love organic shapes and the intricate scroll work that is reminiscent of historical jewelry. I think the fact that I make all of it is what makes it hold together as a style!
-What materials do you use in your work? Why do you use those materials?
Fine silver and sterling silver, copper, and some brass. I want my jewelry to be stable, and non-plated, so that the person who purchases it will have the opportunity to enjoy it for a long time. Because gold prices are so high, and I want my work to be accessible, I have not done any gold work in a while, but it is possible I may go back to it.
-Do you have a favorite item you like to make and why? Rings? Pendants?
Rings - I love all of the symbolism, and I love how excited people get about finding a ring they love that can be custom made to their size. That can be a challenge to those of us who don't wear a size 7!
-What is the best reaction you have gotten from one of your pieces?
The best compliment I get from my customers is when their thank you note is tacked onto an order for another piece. Having a customer that excited about your work really makes you feel like you have done something well!
-What is one thing about your creative process that you think most
people don’t know?
I tend to have a box of UFO's on my desk at all times - un-finished projects that are not orders or repairs. About once a month, when I need a break, I declare it UFO day, and work on the things that have accumulated in my box. I feel like it gives me the chance to work on jewelry for myself, and to be creative without the pressure of having a deadline.
-Any tips and advice for new artisans ?
First, set up a clock where you can see it and get into the habit of timing how long things take you to make. It is so easy to get caught up in creating, and lose all sense of time! Use the times you record to help price your items fairly.
Second, give yourself permission to screw up when you try new things. I tell everyone that when I learn a new technique, it is about the 10th time I do it that I can stop thinking my way through the individual steps and just do it!
Third, spend a year making things for your friends and family before you decide to start selling. You need the practice, but also the self-confidence that comes from having satisfied and amazed people before you start pushing yourself into doing it as a business!
-Any final message or something you would like to share with the readers of this blog post?
When you are deciding to start a craft business, it isn't enough to just love what you do. I have found that you need something that you can stay excited about, and that will keep you energized for the long haul. Pick your passion, and something you can imagine yourself doing for 40 + hours every week.
-Do you sell your jewelry in places other than Etsy? Where can we find you jewelry on and online and off line?
I sell at Hansen Jewelry Studios, in Salt Lake City, Utah and at the Buffalo Creek Gallery in Shelby, NC. I have a website, www.moonkist.com that is currently under construction, as well as my Etsy store. You can also find me on Facebook, or on Twitter!
 |
Reticulated Silver Pendant with Ruby and Copper Bale |
My family belonged to a local Gem and Mineral club when I was young, and I was lucky enough to learn how to cut cabochons and facet stones when I was about 12. After that, I had a drive to make things from the stones I had created. I started with elaborate bead looming projects, and setting stones in wirewrapping, which I learned from a sweet lady at the Gem Club. I was eventually hired to work in a jewelry store, owned by members of the same club. From there, it wasn't long before I discovered the bench and the process of silversmithing!
-Out of all the artistic mediums you could have chosen, why did you decide to create jewelry?
I have other creative hobbies, such as crochet, quilting and scrapbooking, but jewelry has been the thing that has consistently woken me up at night with new ideas. I love that there are so many disciplines to learn, so many things to try. I will learn my entire life, and still not master them all, and that makes me excited and happy. It never gets boring, and I never find myself halfway through a piece and having to goad myself to finish - unlike some of my crochet projects!
 |
Filigree Rainbow Topaz Ring in Sterling Silver |
My mentor for many years has been William Churlik, the founder of Earthspeak Arts in Asheville, NC. This gentleman was the bench jeweler in the jewelry store where I was hired as a teen, and he has been routinely teaching me and helping me figure out challenging pieces for over 20 years. I taught beginning silversmithing with his school for 3 years, before they had to close due to the economy.
 |
Large Statement Garnet Ring in Sterling Silver - Steampunk or Cosplay, For Man or Woman |
If full-time means 40 hours per week, then yes, I do work full time! I am working on growing my business this year so that it can be my only job. Currently, I also work as a personal assistant to a New York Times bestselling novelist and his family, and spend part of my week with them, then work Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and part of Sunday in my studio.
 |
White Topaz Promise Ring, Engagement Ring or Wedding Band Set in Sterling Silver |
When I was first learning, my teacher had a knock-off artist on his hands. I copied every one of his designs, so that I could learn how things were made, often making them in copper. Luckily, after several years of designing and working on my own, I tend to have more of my own personal style, but I still find his teaching in my approach to design. (Thank you, dear Bill!) Also, I am particularly drawn to the architectural designs of Zaha Hadid. I adore the fluid lines and grace that her designs evoke, even in a medium as solid as concrete and steel.
 |
Filigree Opal Pendant in Sterling Silver |
Enamelist Ricky Frank, whose miniature paintings in glass are breathtaking. Charles Lewton-Brain, who pioneered the processes of fold-forming and encourages everyone who approaches him. James Binnion, whose designs are simple and uncluttered and let the beauty of the mokume gane metal show. And my friend Emilie Berls, who has a quirky and delightful playfulness in her work that I admire greatly.
 |
Mixed Metal Ring - Patterned Copper and Sterling Silver |
Functional objects that are beautiful because of their design, like sink faucets. Historical jewelry. Nature walks with my dog. Calligraphy, which I have done since I was in my teens, and always makes for interesting design beginnings...Pretty much, everything!
 |
Elegant Mixed Metal Necklace in Sterling Silver with Patterned Copper |
Long running joke...I used to drink a ton of Diet Sunkist soda, and I'm a night owl...*grin*
 |
Black Star Diopside Ring with Reticulated Sterling |
Funny you should ask...the best word I have come up with is eclectic. I like to make things with clean and modern lines, but also love organic shapes and the intricate scroll work that is reminiscent of historical jewelry. I think the fact that I make all of it is what makes it hold together as a style!
 |
Sterling Silver Filigree Earrings with Deep Red Garnets |
Fine silver and sterling silver, copper, and some brass. I want my jewelry to be stable, and non-plated, so that the person who purchases it will have the opportunity to enjoy it for a long time. Because gold prices are so high, and I want my work to be accessible, I have not done any gold work in a while, but it is possible I may go back to it.
 |
Green Jade Diamond with Hammered Sterling Band |
Rings - I love all of the symbolism, and I love how excited people get about finding a ring they love that can be custom made to their size. That can be a challenge to those of us who don't wear a size 7!
 |
Stacking Ring Set - 5 Bands, Including Turquoise, Opal, and Matte Sterling Silver Bowl |
The best compliment I get from my customers is when their thank you note is tacked onto an order for another piece. Having a customer that excited about your work really makes you feel like you have done something well!
 |
Sterling Silver Heart Pendant - Unique Love Token |
I tend to have a box of UFO's on my desk at all times - un-finished projects that are not orders or repairs. About once a month, when I need a break, I declare it UFO day, and work on the things that have accumulated in my box. I feel like it gives me the chance to work on jewelry for myself, and to be creative without the pressure of having a deadline.
 |
Small Flower Earrings in Copper - Scarlet Pimpernel |
First, set up a clock where you can see it and get into the habit of timing how long things take you to make. It is so easy to get caught up in creating, and lose all sense of time! Use the times you record to help price your items fairly.
Second, give yourself permission to screw up when you try new things. I tell everyone that when I learn a new technique, it is about the 10th time I do it that I can stop thinking my way through the individual steps and just do it!
Third, spend a year making things for your friends and family before you decide to start selling. You need the practice, but also the self-confidence that comes from having satisfied and amazed people before you start pushing yourself into doing it as a business!
 |
Reticulated Silver Cuff Bracelet with Garnet |
When you are deciding to start a craft business, it isn't enough to just love what you do. I have found that you need something that you can stay excited about, and that will keep you energized for the long haul. Pick your passion, and something you can imagine yourself doing for 40 + hours every week.
 |
Winter White Moonstone in Sterling Silver Filigree Mounting with Floral Band |
I sell at Hansen Jewelry Studios, in Salt Lake City, Utah and at the Buffalo Creek Gallery in Shelby, NC. I have a website, www.moonkist.com that is currently under construction, as well as my Etsy store. You can also find me on Facebook, or on Twitter!
 |
White Topaz Wedding Band in Sterling Silver - Promise Ring, Engagement Ring, or Wedding Ring |
Monday, June 4, 2012
Chainmail Earrings Tutorial
To begin, Marilyn is describe the wire used and the jump rings. Here goes...
Wire
"First, the wire used to make the jump rings comes in different "tempers", from dead soft, through half-hard, to hard. I like to use half-hard wire because it gets harder as it is coiled and made into rings, and it gets harder still as the rings are tumbled to clean and polish them. My goal is to have rings that won't pull open."
Wire comes in different thicknesses—or diameter. The wire for this project measures 1.0 mm in diameter.
Chainmail Weaves
This Japanese 6 in 1 chainmail pattern has its roots in Japanese armour from the middle ages. The Japanese weaves look best with small rings for the vertical connector rings and large rings for the horizontal rings. Both rings can be doubled up, as in this project, for a tight, stable weave.
| Step 1 Close one large ring and open 5 large rings. Open 4 small rings. Insert a large ring through the closed large ring and close it. Slide the 2 rings together so the top of ring #2 lies behind ring #1. Keep holding... |  |
| Step 2 Put ring #3 through the centre of the first 2 rings, close it, & slide it sideways so the top of ring #3 lies behind ring #2. If you MUST set the cluster down, do it carefully so the order of the rings stays the same. I have been known to drop it on the floor, and I've found that it's faster to start the cluster over from scratch than try to put the rings back in the right order. |  |
| Step 3 Put ring #4 through the centre of the first 3 rings, close it, and slide it sideways so the top of ring #4 lies behind ring #3. |  |
| Step 4 Follow this pattern to add rings #5 and 6. This completes one mobius ball or flower. |  |
|
Now it's time to join the two segments to the earring findings.
Carefully open the loop on an earring finding. (Remember to use 2 pairs of pliers and open it the same way you would open a jump ring.) Slide the open loop around the two top rings and then gently close it.
Finish the second earring the same way.
by Marilyn Gardiner www.MarilynGardiner.com Hope you enjoy! | |
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Circling the Square Jewelry
If you read my blog, you know I love rings and I love wire work. While browsing Etsy, I found a new jewelry artisan whose work I love. His name is Michael Goettsch and he lives in Eugene OR. He has only been on Etsy since October and he has a few pieces. I think I have photos of all he is showing except one piece.
Michael's work is gorgeous. I look forward to seeing what else he will add to his shop in the future.
 |
| I am looking into having him make this ring for me. |
 |
| And this is the wire work for the ring right above. Just beautiful. |
Michael's work is gorgeous. I look forward to seeing what else he will add to his shop in the future.
Saturday, July 16, 2011
Form and Funktion Jewelry
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Sterling Silver Set of 3 Stacking Rings with One Heart |
Stacy lives in Sonomna County, CA, in a small, bohemian town where artists and musicians abound and where her jewelry designs come to life in her art studio surrounded by redwood trees.
This is what Stacey has to say about her work...
"I love detail and ornament. A fundamental belief of mine is that our quality of life is hugely influenced by our ability to notice the finer detail in everyday things. I love to create art that has several levels of detail that can be seen as one continues to focus on it. I think of my jewelry as little treats for the eyes.
My jewelry designs are always evolving. I am in love with the merging of romanticism and modernism and I strive to get that perfect mix in my pieces. I love clean lines combined with ornate details and nothing stirs my creative juices like getting that combination just right. Working with precious metals keeps me continually inspired and excited to come to work in my studio each morning."
 |
Stacking Set with Bezel-Set Faceted London Blue Topaz |
 |
Etched Spinner Ring with two 14K Gold-Filled Spinners |
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Sterling Silver Spinner Ring with Two Gold-Filled Hammered and One Silver Beaded Spinner |
And she also sells her jewelry on Etsy, a website for handmade items of all kinds.
Check out Stacey's blog for more of an insight into her life as a jeweler.
 | ||
Wide Sterling Silver Hammered Band with Sterling Silver Filigree Design |
Thursday, September 23, 2010
A New Share
"Silver Bells," a new Maria Bella Jewelry necklace, features a beautiful floral stamping with lots of intricate detail. Opposite the floral stamping, on the other side of the necklace, is a small flying bird stamping. Ten pale violet swarovski glass pearls are strung between the two stampings. Above, are a few more pearls, with silver chain in between, and more silver chain to the clasp. A small violet glass pearl is the finishing touch at the end of the necklace.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Finally
Oh my God... I finally had some time and initiative to make a piece of jewelry. I also got to get in touch with how much I miss being creative. This is the necklace I finished...
This necklace is made with amazonite and sterling beads and the cable chain is also sterling. I made it so that it can be worn as a necklace 18", or anywhere up to 20" long.
I have more ideas for necklaces so stay tuned.
This necklace is made with amazonite and sterling beads and the cable chain is also sterling. I made it so that it can be worn as a necklace 18", or anywhere up to 20" long.
I have more ideas for necklaces so stay tuned.
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Wire-Wrappers
Creators of Wire Wrapped Jewelry
Visit Wire-Wrappers
If you like viewing wire wrapped jewelry, this is a new site I recently joined. If you make wire wrap jewelry, you can join also if you are interested. Take a look.
Visit Wire-Wrappers
If you like viewing wire wrapped jewelry, this is a new site I recently joined. If you make wire wrap jewelry, you can join also if you are interested. Take a look.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Wire Wrap Earrings Tutorial
This is a free tutorial of some very pretty wire wrap earrings made by Aniolek-maly. She is a 23 year old jewelry designer from Poland. I mention her age only because I wish I was creating beautiful jewelry like her's at her age. Of course, at 23, I was focused on painting watercolors and only watercolor paintings.
And here is a link to a gallery of her work. If you are a wire wrap artist, you will find her jewelry very inspirational. Beautiful, very beautiful.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Looking for Wire Wrap Jewelry Artists
I have just started a "Top 100" list for wire wrap jewelry artists. It is essentially a directory where people can look for wire wrap artists all in one place. You can attach your blog or your website and I am hoping to create more traffic for you, and me.
If you are interested, please go to http://WireWrapJewelry.goTop100.com. And if you know other wire wrap artists that maybe interested, please pass the word. I believe the more talent listed will help everyone get more exposure.
If you are interested, please go to http://WireWrapJewelry.goTop100.com. And if you know other wire wrap artists that maybe interested, please pass the word. I believe the more talent listed will help everyone get more exposure.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
New Necklaces
Whenever I buy new beads for Tiger Beads, I almost always have to keep a strand for myself. I have been collecting for a while now, not knowing how I wanted to use them. This weekend, I took the time just to be creative and to make myself some new jewelry pieces. This is what I came up with.
Lavender Pearls and Sugilite
Ebony Twist Beads and Amazonite
Cool Ebony Triangle Beads and Yellow Jade
Friday, April 17, 2009
Wire Wrap Jewelry Website Recommendation
I happened upon this website awhile ago and wanted to pass it on. It is called Jewelry Lessons by Eni Oken and friends. There are lots of tips, tutorials, and photos of some beautiful wire wrap jewelry made by students of Eni Oken. And if you are familiar with Eni's work, which is gorgeous, you will also be very impressed with her students work. There are even free tutorials there too. Just checking out the site is very inspirational.
If you like beautiful jewelry and like wire wrap in particular, take a look. You will be inspired too. http://jewelrylessons.com/jewel/
If you like beautiful jewelry and like wire wrap in particular, take a look. You will be inspired too. http://jewelrylessons.com/jewel/
Friday, December 19, 2008
Cat Jewelry
If you are a cat lover like myself, you may be interested in some of the jewelry I have made. I have pins, earrings, bracelets and a necklace. Take a look at my other blog, The Very Best Cats, and on the right side there is a section called "cat jewelry." Take a look. You might find just the right gift for yourself or a friend or family member.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
New Necklaces
These are 2 recent creations. These necklaces were inspired by the beautiful wood beads that are in both. When I received this order from my supplier, I knew I wanted to create SOMETHING from them. This is it.
For more information, just visit my Etsy jewelry store.
For more information, just visit my Etsy jewelry store.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Beginning Holiday Sale
I just finished new listings in my Etsy jewelry store and I am beginning a Holiday Sale. Take a look when you have some time.
These are a couple of the earrings I finished recently. They are sterling wire and pretty, shiny pearls, and sterling beads. Very lightweight and very comfortable to wear.
These are a couple of the earrings I finished recently. They are sterling wire and pretty, shiny pearls, and sterling beads. Very lightweight and very comfortable to wear.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
2 Necklaces, 3 Pairs of Earrings
I had a pretty good creative day today. I made 2 necklaces that incorporate some of my new wood beads, beautiful gemstone beads, and sterling silver chain. I like the combination of the different elements together. As soon as I get photos, I will share them here.
I purchased a new tool called a bead reamer that enlarges bead holes. It is battery powered and works a whole lot better than the 2 other hand tools I have for the same purpose. I have wanted this tool for a long time so that I could use the beautiful pearls I have in a new way. Usually I wire wrap pearls. Their holes are so small only a very thin wire will go through it. Now I have more of a choice in how I can use the pearls. Hooray!
I made 3 new pairs of earrings, with pearls, that I will also share as soon as I take photos.
I purchased a new tool called a bead reamer that enlarges bead holes. It is battery powered and works a whole lot better than the 2 other hand tools I have for the same purpose. I have wanted this tool for a long time so that I could use the beautiful pearls I have in a new way. Usually I wire wrap pearls. Their holes are so small only a very thin wire will go through it. Now I have more of a choice in how I can use the pearls. Hooray!
I made 3 new pairs of earrings, with pearls, that I will also share as soon as I take photos.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
A Commission
One of my customers asked me to modify a pair of earrings she saw that I made. She likes pineapple quartz so this is what I made for her. We were both very pleased with how they turned out.
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