After finishing the last batch of charms I decided my next studio session would be devoted to trying out some new ideas. And so it was.
First, I had to try the circles again. I didn't much like the first batch I did and chalked it up to the learning curve. The next time I was in our local hardware store I picked up some 1/2 or 3/8 inch pipe to cut. First, it was much easier to get some thin cuts out of the smaller pipe, second, it made for a much more delicate charm once soldered to the base.
I ended up with these. MUCH better. I can't wait to finish these. And they have room to add dangly pearls and crystal beads.
There were two ideas I wanted to try before I forgot them, even if I only had time to do the most rudimentary prototype.
The first one I picked up from Stephanie Lee's Handbook of Elements class I just took, stamping into solder. I've determined that it requires just the right stamp, just the right amount of solder, and just the right amount of pressure. The cool thing is that you get a couple of trys when doing this, as you can heat up the solder once or twice before it develops a skin and is done.
I am quite excited about the possibilities with this technique and will be working with it some more over the weekend as long as I can squeeze out some studio time.
The third technique is still a work in progress, but has to do with more stamping, this time using metal letter and number stamps to make lighter pendants and tiny charms that can be worn alone or added to a larger assemblage of elements.
Now that I have a little bit of stock it is fun to have the freedom to experiment with some other ideas - and that's the way Ride & Shine will grow into a truly unique company. Next, more silver wrapping and my first round of cowgirl belt buckles!
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