Watch Out! I've got a torch, and I'm not afraid to use it!!

FirstTorch1
Originally uploaded by kateydesigns

So I finally took the plunge! And I'm hooked! I'm taking my first metalworking class from Naomi Kantrow here in Connecticut. She has some amazing pieces! Eventually I'll get the full set up (Smith B probably), but just as an intro I bought this little guy. It's so fun! So far I've just fused fine silver, but plan to solder at home with it as soon as I get all the extras (flux, pickle, tools, etc.) This is a great way to make a smaller commitment before you know if melting metal is for you. A friend in the class actually got a slightly different one from a gourmet cooking shop (for creme brulee!) But they seem to get things hot enough to get the job done. I like the portability of it also. So hopefully this will open up tons of new design options for me!

Beautiful Bridesmaids !

Ashley6Bridesmaids1
Originally uploaded by kateydesigns

I'm having a lot of fun working with Ashley from Missouri on the jewelry sets for her bridesmaids for her wedding this June! The dresses are coral with a maple colored sash. We discussed the colors for the design, and came up with this mix of Swarovski crystals and freshwater pearls, both in peach, with smaller padparadscha crystals to tie into the coral color. The sides of the necklaces will be in a chocolate brown Greek leather, to connect with the sash. The earrings are made with one padparadshca crystal and one pearl (You can view them here .) I hope they like them!

Great Neck Jewelry Class: Dangle Earrings

Wow! Our last class is already here! This week, we will make earrings! The first step is to design your earrings. Once you decide the sequence of the beads, you place them on the head pin. This is a specially designed wire that the beads won't fall off of. Next, we have to make the wire wrap at the top; which is the hardest part. There are many online demos; here is one I found with some good photos. Next we attach to the ear wire or leverback for the finished piece!
See you Wednesday!

Great Neck Jewelry Class: Toggle Clasp Anklet/Bracelet

Hi Ladies!
I hope you've had a good week. This time in class, we're going to make a bracelet or anklet; your choice. We'll use beading wire to string your design.
To begin, we string a crimp tube on one end of the beading wire, then loop that through the loop on the toggle clasp, then back through the crimp tube. Pull it so that the toggle clasp is hanging from the tube by a small loop that lets the toggle move freely.
We then use our crimper pliers to secure the tube. Use the inner tube to make the first crimp; then insert the flattened tube sideways into the far groove and squeeze to complete.
You're now ready to string your anklet! When you're finished, repeat the crimp process on the other end to fasten the other end of the toggle.
I hope you enjoy it!