I started a new column on the Whimseybox blog today.! It’s called Jewelry Repair 101, and I show readers basic ways to fix up broken jewelry. You know…the necklace where the clasp fell off, or the bracelet that broke apart. I got the idea for the column after a couple friends asked me for tips on how to fix their own jewelry. The first post talks about how to use elastic thread to fix a broken bracelet.
Check out the full post on the Whimseybox blog!
Image from The Swoon Event
I’m prepping for my first bridal show next week! It’s called The Swoon Event, and it’s geared towards the rustic-vintage-DIY kind of bride. I am super excited about showing off my jewelry and (hopefully) talking to brides and bridesmaids about custom orders. I’ve been making lots of new jewelry these past weeks, and will post some pics of my new pieces soon!
In preparation for the Swoon Event, I’ve been thinking of how I want to display my jewelry. I decided to go simple but fun, and came up with these candy-colored jewelry holders. They turned out so well that I just might start using them as my everyday jewelry holder! Want to make your own? Check out the full tutorial on the Crafts Unleashed blog.
For all you Dallas folks, here are more details about The Swoon Event. My booth name is estieMade. If you’re at the event, I’d love for you to swing by and say hi!
I am proud to say I finally finished my ring! I call it my ‘eyeball’ ring, because…well, it kinda looks like one. (Note to self: next time, use a smaller stone!).
I started out with a sheet of silver and a piece of thick wire.
And here’s where I was when I talked about it on my last post:
Since then, I’ve added the cabochon (it’s a beautiful stone called sodalite) and the actual ring. I would’ve finished earlier, but I was clumsy and broke my cabochon when I was setting it (I dropped it on the floor).
The best part about the ring is that when people ask, I can say I actually made it! As a jewelery designer, I struggle with that term. I design and put together all pieces for my etsy store, but I don’t physically sit down and fabricate the materials. I don’t cast the charms, and I don’t pound the metal to make any of my pieces. And I’ve been wanting to. It’d be great to be able to say I made every piece of this necklace or those pair of earrings!
Anyhow, I know I’m still starting off in metalsmithing, but I’m looking forward to learning more!
