When It All Comes Together

It’s really exciting when the idea I’ve got in my head cooperates with my fingers and my latest technique obsession to produce something I like as much as the piece I imagined in my head. It’s a rare occurrence. Most designs evolve pretty far from the original idea, but every once in a blue moon the planets align, and I make something that I really love, and it’s exactly as I hoped. This is Iteration Number 3:

I got a few positive comments on my last versions of the riveted silver and polymer pieces. You know, the ones I didn’t like as much as the bezeled pieces. It isn’t so much that I don’t like the idea of flat silver and thin polymer clay as that I didn’t like the particular design(riveted buttons) in that format. The squares were a bit boring. I decided curves might work much with the flat textured silver.

This piece was so much fun to make all the way through. I cut the shape out of 24 gauge sterling silver sheet and textured it with my collection of hammers and design stamps. (It’s got an overall pattern on the back too.) I even managed a successful tube rivet in the hole at the top. Then I patinated the piece, and rubbed it to a nice soft satin finish. The thin polymer element is a combination of Kathleen Dustin’s Layered Translucent technique and my simple bisque glaze finish. I really love the contrast of the smooth pattern and the textured side. Here’s a detail shot of the pendant:

The polymer clay and silver were joined with a trio of copper rivets. I purchased the chain footage while I was at the Bead & Button Show and it was the overall inspiration of the piece.

I made a funky pair of earrings in a similar style as well.

There’s a lot going on this weekend: a swim meet, painting project and a visit from my sister. Keep your fingers crossed that I’ll be able to find some more studio time. I don’t want to stop!!!