A Work in Progress

Hey, look! It's a barnacle ring.

Some of you have asked what kind of class I'm taking. The answer is small scale casting for jewelry. Our first assignment was to carve a ring from wax and cast it. I can't say I enjoyed the carving process, but the finishing of the ring (once I got those darn sprues off) was enjoyable. And, while the stone isn't set yet I am pleased with it so far. I enjoy being in a classroom setting with a bunch of other folks who go ga ga over tools and fire. Is it an illness or a gift - depends upon the day, I guess. When this is finished I will begin working on my next project which is to design a personal talisman. I have chosen the image of HOUSE. It may make some of you snicker just a little bit. It's a good talisman for me. I'm always shopping for houses, thinking about de-constructing them or re-constructing them. I remember drawing floor plans when I was little. As well as elevations of my dream house(s). I guess it's still in me, houses. They represent so much; hope, comfort, family, security, love. The piece I'm planning uses houses to represent each member of my immediate family. They will all be held together by a chain. I'm still working on the details, but I'm looking forward to starting it.

Coleman and Max have both started carving their own rings. I'm looking forward to casting those and photographing them to put up here some day soon...


I would love to hear from all of you about what you think your personal talisman may be. Coleman's was a dragon wrapped around a samurai sword (Max said he'd like that too), Chris said his is the knuckle of a stalk of bamboo, Rose said a rolling pin (though I would have chosen an apple pie for her). I think my dad's would be a deck of cards. Yours?