I hope you found some inspiration in the layers of color and texture that I shared two weeks ago. I think that my whole life is a patchwork of sorts, filled with a random mixture of colors, textures, patterns and shapes.The cool thing about patchwork, mishmash, jumble or potpourri approach is that anything goes!
Usually with these challenges I try to challenge myself. This month I set out to adapt a look that I have been working on for other jewelry pieces into some components for earrings.
Introducing: The HodgePodge Collection
These are made from a variety of canes and blends that I have made myself in my polymer clay work. To make these I have to make larger sheets that are filled with a crazy mish-mash of cane slieces and polymer clay veneers. Then I use these special micro cutters that I found (meant for leather work) to make the shapes. These are just the initial pairs that I have created, but I know that I will make other shapes and color palettes. Lots of possibilities here!
I decided that for the earrings I would select a few of my favorites, but I wanted to keep the focus on the components. Not long ago I spotted a video of Heather Powers for her Bead Table Wednesday where she talked about making your own ear wires. I know I should really get in the habit of making my own as it really ups your game and makes your jewelry really unique, but I admit that I am quite lazy! I would much rather work on the beads and components and by the time I get to making my own findings I am ready to move on. Still, it really is quite simple if you have the right gauge wire...oh and a good wire rounder tool to make sure the wire ends are smooth. I used 20 gauge sterling silver wire for all of these. I experimented with different shapes and added details like some faceted hematite beads and hammered spirals. I like that these ear wires I make can complement the materials and shape of the components.
I really like the graduated sizes of most of the shapes in the set. I think it will be fun to experiment with drops that are different sizes and adding in other beads and metal for a more layered effect. I think I will have fun making more of these components this spring, and even offering a few for sale. If you are interested, let me know.
Now it is your turn! Let's see what sort of mish-mash, jumbled up, patchwork style you created this month.
