Tuesday, January 13, 2009

Working with different metals

My favorite metal to work with is Sterling, but I have a lot of 14kt gold filled wire that I bought to make wire wrapped rings that I no longer carry in my store, and I've been wondering what I'm going to do with it. So for the heck of it I wanted to make a pair of hoops. The metal is a lot more pliable and softer than sterling but after some hammering to give it texture and strength, I have to say that I'm was pretty pleased with the way they turned out.


I listed this pair in my shop today and sent a pair to a return customer as a thank you gift. I'm hoping that I'll have time this week to make more in varying sizes like I carry in my Rustic Hoops line. I'm really excited at the prospect of incorporating this metal into some of my jewelry designs.

On a side note, I should be receiving my very large order of fine silver so I can try my hand at fusing. I'll be sure to post my creations...I can't wait!!

7 comments:

sage said...

Ooooo.. I love them!

Very Pretty

:)

SHI said...

Thank you :)

Anonymous said...

that's a lovely pair of hoop earrings and you are such a generous person to just give it away! i'm sure it means a lot to your customer! no wonder they keep on coming back!

SHI said...

Thanks juwelen, but I'm really the blessed one! I've got the best customers around, hands down!

Beadin By The Sea said...

Shi, those are beautiful!
Did you ever get the book "Silver Wire Fusing" by Liz Jones? I have my copy sitting here. I need to buy those really expensive tronex pliers in order to try it. I also found out that she does classes in Seattle using her techniques. I 'm looking forward to seeing what you come up with.

SHI said...

Debora, I did buy the book! I also just received all of my fine silver a couple of days ago, but I haven't had the chance to work with it yet! That's my goal for the weekend :)
Have you made any items yet fusing?

Beadin By The Sea said...

Hi Shi, I can't figure out how to email you. Yes, I made some rings from some 18G fine silver I had laying around. They turned out great and they are now in a pair of earrings. I think the thicker gauges are easier like 14 and 16 gauge. Have fun!