Fine Craft Shows at Chautauqua July 12–14 & August 9–11, 2024
I handcraft the jewelry components using sterling silver, fine silver (PMC), polymer, semi precious stones and found objects. The polymer process I often use begins with cane building, a technique similar to that used in mosaic and millefiori glass. To make a cane, long rods of hand mixed colors of clay are layered, wrapped and arranged to create an image that runs throughout the length of the cane. To create the polymer forms, slices of the cane are arranged on a polymer shape and then fired. Most pieces are then carved, sanded and polished. Fine silver (PMC) is used for organic forms such as twigs, leaves and vines. PMC is shaped and formed just as potters clay. It is then fired in a kiln and the binders are burnt out leaving only precious metal. Bezel plates, earwires and closures are fabricated in sterling silver. The beautiful colors of the polymer contrast and work with the textured silver elements to give the jewelry the unique look for which it is known.