I'm taking a class in small metals, which includes making jewelry.
Project 1: "Cold Connections" project. We were to design, make a model of, and build an item using metal. Cold Connections refers to the lack of soldering, mainly. It involves rivets and tabs.
My project is a little decorative/artsy item that will have a small spinner inside it. The spinner can be turned to indicate the weather outside.
After my initial model, I spent more time working on the design, including sketches. I decided to do away with the tabs holding on the top piece, and include it in the spacers and rivets. I had to design the axis on which the weather elements will turn - it will include
Sawing, let me tell you, is a bitch. Behind, a saw blade:
I broke about ten of these little bastards while cutting out my pieces.
After cutting out the pieces, my next step was to drill holes. This involes a drill and hopefully, not turning your piece into a ninja star as it catches on the bit and begins spinning wildly with it.
then filing. Lots of filing.
And then sand. And sand. And sand.
Next, I started drawing in some design for the pieces - they'll be painted with an etching solution that does not react to the sharpie--it will etch around it.
So what have I learned so far?
1) Small metals and jewelry making requires a precision that doesn't come naturally to me . I'm an impressionist.
2) Maybe I can be really good at making myself some trinkets, and gifts for others.
3) It's hard physical work. Trying not to break those tiny, thin saw blades is a nightmare.
4) I do feel pretty badass handling an acetylene torch.
Maybe I need to use more organic forms in my work. When I said 'circles are hard' out loud several veterans laughed. Apparently, they're hard for everyone.
