Andrea Durham Designs : appreciation

Monday, February 18, 2013

Sunday, February 3, 2013

Following me through the ring making process

Step 1.

Step 1. I have cut a piece of 22 gauge copper sheeting, hammered and textured it in preparation for anealing and shaping. this piece is ready to be hand sanded.

Step 2.

Step 2. I have annealed the ring to soften the copper. Here I have begun to shape and size the ring

Step 3.

Step 3. The ring is sized and ready to be wrapped with 2 different wires. I love to use a 20 gauge square wire first, followed by a 24 gauge round to set and hold the stone.

Step 4.

Step 4. Before I wrap the copper I like to make sure that the stone will set well onto the rolled arms. I really just like to look at how pretty the metal and Rivoli go together. :)

Step 5.

I have temporarily set the stone here tomake sure that I have set the sides at the correct distance to hold the Swavorski properly. All the colors in this picture turned out rather brilliant.

Step 6. I have wrapped the swavorski rivoli to the copper band. I would say that I am finished but I am actually not happy with the 24 gauge wrap. I will be re-wrapping it with a 26 gauge instead tomorrow.

I have used a silver~black patina for a smooth soft vintage finish. I do not use any sealants on my jewelry. I like them to age and darken naturally. This process is a beautiful occurence that gives your ring a organic character.

Question: Is Copper HyperAllergenic?

I have found a wonderful blog that talks about copper fact and fiction click here and hopefully that will answer your question:) I have used a hard sheet metal and soft wire both are pure copper alloy. They are considered hypo allergenic.

My designs are very simple, organic and raw. I love to keep my pieces artsy and asymetrical. You will find that they appear whimsical and are obviously handcrafted. It is important to me that you are happy with your ring if you do not like the design please let me know and I we can talk about something that is more to your liking :)

Namaste'

Andrea

Friday, February 1, 2013

And the winner is.... Louly M.

It's that time and Rafflecopter has picked the winner! Congratulations goes to Louly M.

You can follow the design process and see how the copper ring turns out by clicking here. I will place pictures up as I move through the phases of the ring showing the final sculpture before it heads home to its new home.

I want to thank those of you who took a chance and entered my ring giveaway. I will be announcing a February giveaway for a pair of Madhatter Earrings mid month, so stay tuned. Iam very excited to offer my jewelry for free. All you have to do is enter and let others know about Andrea Durham Designs...

Namaste