Monday, March 21, 2016

Patterned Wire

by Patti Vanderbloemen

I've been under the weather on and off lately and have not spent much time in my studio...and I miss it so! I apologize for my absence! But, on those days where I can drag myself out of bed, it was directly to the coffee pot...and then my studio.

Recently, I had an email link (from one of the many vendors that send me links) with a quick tutorial for using patterned sterling silver wire. I can no longer find the link (It was Terri McCarthy on a Cool Tools -video but a search on their site as well as You-Tube proved futile).  Sigh. Anyway, Terri soldered a strip of patterned sterling wire to a piece of sterling sheet, soldered on an ear wire and...boom...instant textured earrings! I was inspired!

The first item I made was similar - but I cut my sterling sheet larger, and soldered my pattern wire down the center.  I then added some hand stamping to the sides of the sheet.


A technique I loved from the artist's video was using tiny sterling silver tubing to "hold" the ear wire.


It was tricky to solder the ear wire and the tubing at the same time - that sucker just wanted to move, no matter how well anchored it was on my soldering block! Although easier said then done, I added more solder to the tubing after my first soldering operation  - just to ensure it was secure.

I originally had ring shanks in mind for this patterned wire, but, it is a substantial weight, so I made a bangle.


I added two faceted bangles to the set - looks so good on the wrist when worn together.


Earrings again - this time post-style.



I just could not stop, so I also made a matching pendant.



It's not that large, so it's comfortable to wear all day long.


I have had this patterned wire in my stash for a long time, and was happy to put it to good use, although I still need to make a ring!

Patterned wire comes in all shapes, sizes, and textures (mine came from Rio Grande) - I love the versatility of this metal!

Thanks for stopping by today!

8 comments:

Unknown said...

What a clever idea! I love how you took it and ran with it and the bangles are to die for.

Marsha of Marsha Neal Studio said...

I love seeing your take on this. Working through techniques and exercises figuring stuff out is a great way to find inspiration to get you back in the creative groove (hope you are feeling better ASAP!). I seriously love these!!!

DVArtist said...

Wow very pretty. Sending you healing energy.

Therese's Treasures said...

Beautiful pieces Patti,
I love the bangle set.
Therese

www.pinkelstar.com said...

I regret to hear that you was feeling under the weather. Hope you are good now!
Your silver wire new finishes look stunning! I really love simple silver jewelry like in your post. Look forward to hearing from you soon and see more lovely handmade!

mairedodd said...

gorgeous use of the wire - wow, really inspiring! i am smiling because the post i am working on has to do with 2 things you showed in your post!

Ann Schroeder said...

I'm so sorry you've been feeling under the weather! I've missed your posts and am happy to see this one. This is a great technique, and all of your pieces are beautiful.

fairiesmarket said...

Looks like you're ready to post your own video! Very nice, especially like the bangles. I hope you're back on your feet soon. Thanks for taking the time to post.

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