Lately, this has been my passion – carving molds, making and making molds, stamping it, filing and carving it when it is dry but not fired (green). Also – several brands of copper clay, silver clay, steel clay, and brass clay. Several of the experiments didn’t work out – not compatible clays, etc. I think I’ve finally gotten a feel for what works, and the rhythm of my own kiln. Each one is different! Here are some photos of my experiments. I even made a set of key rings for my co-workers at Oracle.
Custom Pet Picture Order
THIS ORDER, FROM A CUSTOMER OF BONNIEJEANHARDWEAR, WAS FOR 2 PENDANTS FROM PHOTOS OF HER PET DASCHUNDS. SHE ALSO WANTED A SPECIFIC HANDMADE HEART NECKLACE. HERE ARE SOME PHOTOS OF THE PROCESS AND RESULTS… FROM PENCIL SKETCH TO FINAL WATERCOLOR, CUSTOM STERLING SILVER BEZEL FRAME, TO HAND-FORGED CHAIN. THE PENDANTS ARE INTERCHANGEABLE, THANKS TO A DESIGN COMPONENT OF A CLASP AT THE FRONT OF THE NECKLACE TO CHANGE OUT THE PENDANTS.
Batch of Paintings into Pendants – So Exciting
I’m still working on this set of 20 or so miniature watercolor paintings. Now I’ve coated them in gesso, to make them durable and waterproof. Then, I sized each on based on the glass that will cover them. I used an exacto to cut out the rough size and shape. Then, I marked and cut sterling silver sheet into backing for each one. Then, I cut sterling silver bezel wire (a thin, flat wire used to frame the back) that I will now solder to make the frames.
I took photos of each of these steps.
If I decide to stamp a phrase on some, I will do that before soldering the bezel to the backing… once they become frames, they can no longer be stamped.
When complete, I will file, sand, and finish each solid sterling silver pendant frames. Then, I will solder on a ring, rings, or punch a hole so they can be used as pendants or bracelet centerpieces.
When complete, I will have spent the equivalent of 10-12 hours on EACH piece. These are truly one of a kind.
Miniature Original Paintings encased in Glass & Sterling Silver
Lately I’ve been working on miniature original watercolor paintings that will be turned into custom pendants. Anything, including photos, is possible with this method! Right now, though, I have these original little paintings I’m working on. Each will be accompanied by a glass tile laid over the top, then tightly fitted into a handmade sterling silver pendant with bezel. Each one is an individual work of art, and there is no other in the world!
Bonnie Jean Swensrud 