Ways to create lightweight and simple armatures with wire and apoxie clay (no soldering required).
Types of wire to use and why, how to harden and shape wire for projects
Basic designs formed in wire to make cuff bracelets, brooches with wire and clay catches, several different original closures and linking structures for necklaces
How to create your own designs from start to finish instead of relying on purchased findings to dictate forms for your jewelry
Working with thin polymer veneers to cover wire and creating dynamic forms with apoxie clay that will then be covered with polymer veneers
Using canes and patterns that you have already made or even simple sheets of color or stripes to practice these techniques with wire
The emphasis will be on the engineering and a sampling of techniques. Bonnie will not focus on any particular cane construction but will explain and demonstrate how she uses veneers to create designs in jewelry
Supply list:
Nickel Silver Wire (we will have in class for purchase by the foot) 2-3 ft heavyweight (for bracelets): 10 gauge (from Rio Grande) 2-3 ft lightweight: (for necklaces, pins, and closures): 18 gauge (from Rio Grande)
Pliers (for forming wire) hammer, file. One simple pair of flat pliers or various shapes, wire cutter,
Bench block or tiny anvil for hammering and shaping – Rio Grande Item #: 112052GP also can be found at AC Moore with jewelry making supplies
Apoxie sculpt clay from Aves Studio – any color (we will also have on hand to share)
Pasta machine (or reserve ahead if you need one of ours)
Polymer canes 4 or more. Already made, simple stripes and blends will be fine
Conditioned clay
in a variety of your favorite colors (approximately 1 pound total)
