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Monday, July 28, 2008

Layers Necklace-Project 4


"Etched No.1"
I had decided to etch the metal for my next project in Deryn's Summer Jewelry Challenge , where we are using Mary Hettmansperger's book, Wrap, Stitch, Fold & Rivet. My first attempt with etching about a month ago, was not successful. I tried once more today, and I am so satisfied with how the metal pieces turned out. I etched on copper, nickel and brass, using some of my favorite stamps.
The brass piece on the bottom is the one I like most. I didn't want to cover up too much of it, as the patina I applied (by torch) turned out very nice. I lightly sanded it with steel wool to emphasize the beautiful pattern of the etching.
The next piece is nickel. The etching is slightly lighter, but just as nice. I used the same technique as on the brass.
The hammered swirl charm was one I had done a couple of weeks ago, and has been sitting on my desk. I had also added patina with my torch, after it was hammered. The fun thing about the swirl in this piece, is that it can swing freely. I like the slight movement. On page 29 of Mary's book, she gave a detailed explaination on how to make a wrapped loop swirl charm. This one, though not wrapped, had been done for practice, just waiting for the right project.
I took 24 gauge sterling silver wire, drew a ball on the end with my torch; then wrapped it as Mary had done in her example piece. I strung a short piece of oxidized sterling silver chain thru the fold. Added a couple of twisted copper jump rings, a hand forged hammered sterling silver s-clasp, and an oxidized brass chain to finish the piece.
I cut out two additional pieces of the etched and patined brass. I must make a pair of matching earrings, but they will have to wait till tomorrow.

12 comments:

Rambling Woods said...

Those are really beautiful. We have a friend who makes things using a blacksmith's forge and tools. ..Michelle

beautifullybrokenme said...

Yea! Great job on the etching! It is really easy once you get the hang of it!

I love this piece with all its textures, and I can't wait to see the matching earrings!

Have a great rest of your day! :-)

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Fanciful Expressions said...

Diane,
I love the way your etching turned out.It's a most beautiful piece.

Carolyn

Anonymous said...

I love this piece...I am getting ready to start making necklaces...your work has really inspired me to give it a go!

Chris said...

Wooo hooo~~~~ this turned out so lovely-wonderful! And I love your etching. It looks like you had fun! Your version of this project really makes me smile----such a great piece.

Tammy's Treasure Chest said...

This is gorgeous! That must be a wonderful book, and you have put it to excellent use! Love it!

Anonymous said...

LOVE...IT! The spiral is a great touch!

Sandra Evertson said...

Wow, really Gorgeous!
Sandra

Diana said...

Love this piece, Diane, your etching turned out wonderfully. You are doing such a great job with Deryn's challenge. You go girl!
Diana

Anita said...

Beautiful! You continue to amaze me!

kansasrose said...

Stunning girl....you keep rockin' it out. :)

Daryl said...

Diane .. these are just lovely .. your talent grows with each piece you create ... I want them ALL

:-Daryl