A Little Copper Pendant

I love creating these little copper enameled pendants. Its really takes a lot more time to create one of these, than it does one of the glass pieces. It's true that fused glass requires much more kiln time. Mine are generally in the kiln 8 hours or more when cooling time is factored in.

The copper goes in and out of a really hot kiln multiple times, but it's all very quick. To create this little one, I cut the shape out of a piece of copper using snips, filed off the rough edges, hammered it and created an indention in the middle, drilled a hole, and then I used a torch to burn off any oil left by my fingers.

Once clean, I sprayed with an adhesive, sifted it with enamel powder, and stuck it into the hot and ready kiln. In a matter of minutes, the powder had fused to the metal. This process was repeated several times with different powders until I like the effect and color.

On this one, I put glass jewels or chunks into the indented area and fired to melt into a liquid pool.

Once it was cool, I added a copper jump ring and soldered it closed.

A Helping Hand

The first photo is of this cool little helper tool I got at Harbor Freight. It only cost about $5, but has really come in handy. I don't do much enameling, but when I do get the chance, I usually solder the jump ring together. This little tool holds it for me, while I hold the solder and torch.

I've also included some of my more recent pendents. Even though I don't usually consciously decide to create seasonal pieces, it seems like I've drifted into more fall colors lately. All of these are glass, except the last three. These are enameled copper.

Cupcake to Order

I haven't done much enameling lately. I usually have to concentrate on glass to the exclusion of other things, to keep pace for the various show and shops. But the other day, I pulled out the copper and started cutting. My daughter likes the copper pendants and wears a heart and a little bird a lot, so when she saw me with the copper sheet, she requested a cupcake. Below is the final piece. To me, it looks more like a muffin, but she liked it. I think maybe next time, I will add a little curl of icing to the top and maybe a few sprinkles. I did enjoy creating it though. I got a chance to use the enamel watercolors I had bought a while back. Those open up a whole bunch of possibilities.

Swirling Color

A recent glass pendant. Black glass with Glassline paint swirls of color. This one just makes me feel happy.

The Last, Loveliest Smile

Fall has been In the air the last couple of days - cool, crisp mornings and hints of color shifts in the leaves. I love this time of year - school starts back, football is in full, fresh season hopefulness. I love the stark contrast of golden leaves against the shockingly blue sky. I love cool nights and breaking out my favorite sweatshirt again.

So, forgive me if I'm jumping ahead a little early, I'm sure summer will take a few last gasps in the next few weeks, but today let's celebrate autumn in all of it's full, rich smiling glory!

Laughing in Flowers

"The Earth Laughs in Flowers."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Here is a recent glass piece. It's about 4"x5" - and is mounted on a larger, black canvas board.