Alchemy of Objects-Weekly Challenge 3 (texture)

Some challenges are, let's say, more "challenging" than others.  Integrating rich texture into a jewelry design is turning out to be very difficult.

For one thing, I am straying from the "grungy romantic" style that is the norm in our class.  It has been the norm because our teacher, Deryn Boyd Mentock, does it sooooo beautifully.  If the others are like me, attempted imitation has been our form of flattery.  Also, it makes sense to try the techniques she teaches on components similar to the ones she employs.

 

For another, I hate Ice Resin.  O.K., I love-hate Ice Resin.  My bright design idea was to create a locket-type focal from a mini Altoids tin.  Inside the tin, I knew I would use the jewelry resin to affix components and highlight them.  Oh, are there a lot of pitfalls in using resin!  Usually, I fight the tiny bubbles.  I was armed with toothpicks and a flame.  So, instead of bubbles, this time I don't mix the parts in the correct proportions and my resin doesn't set up.  Fortunately, if you pour (or even brush) additional resin on your project, it is enough if the top layer has cured correctly.  Crisis averted.  In the meantime, though, I leave fingerprints, let resin drip from the holes I punched for the wire wraps, miss sealing the edges of my vintage papers, etc.  The frustration is only quieted when you achieve some fabulous, shiny miracle.  And that happens just often enough to keep you reaching!


Since I'm not ready to photograph my efforts, I thought I would show you some inspiration and clip art that I'm using in my piece.  My theme is "hospitality," but I'll elaborate on that with the finished product.  I found this farmhouse clipart at www.karenswhimsy.com.  I like the color values and the fact that it reminds me of time spent on my grandparents' farm.  Next time I post, I'll introduce you to my "junky country" style.