Competition in today’s web-world can be a beautiful thing. Print media has taken a hit the past few years, with periodicals and newspapers put into the position of either radically changing offerings to the public, incorporating new media to retain and attract new subscribers – or being left behind.
As a longtime subscriber to jewelry making periodicals, I’ve been faced with trying to decide which magazines are worthy of my continued support. Obviously I’m not the only one, for some of the major players are really going to town to offer new things to readers, web-users, and old-school die-hard fans (like me).
Some offer free videos online, and I’ve watched my fair share of video tutorials over the years. Most of them feature fairly stiff-acting metalsmiths who leave out more than they provide. Or teach something counter to my own methods. Or just plain wrong or dangerous! So it was a nice surprise to find a simple, straightforward, FREE video from Interweave, publisher of the mighty fine Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist magazine. Taught by my metalsmithing hero, Helen Driggs.
Simple, basic, and to the point. You won’t learn any bad habits here. Click on the link below. It will take you to the website where you can view the video. Enjoy!
Free Metalsmithing Video Tutorial: Basic Metal Jewelry-Making Techniques – Jewelry Making Daily.
Tag Archives: how to make jewelry
The first weekend-long workshop was recently held in the Metalsmithing Classroom at Flame Art Studios. Downtown Indianapolis hasn’t seen this many women hammering since Rosie the Riveter’s time.
Not just hammering to beat metal into submission, no! A hundred times no! Hammering skillfully, to place each individual blow just where it needed to go to move the metal just enough to cause the precise movement needed to create an armful of art.
Ok, so some practicing happened too. We talked of ergonomics, proper body positioning and not pointing your finger across the top of the hammer, ahem! And lots of laughter. But let me tell you, this was no hen party. These were some serious-minded students out to learn! I was beyond proud – my heart was so full, and still is, every time I think if it.
At the end of it all, everyone went home with some shiny new work and some new skills. And who doesn’t dig a chick with skills? Not much else needs to be said that cannot be viewed here in these photos. Enjoy.
Psst: Take a class! If not from me, or if not in Indy, then SOMEWHERE! If in doubt as to your ability or creativity, read “Perfect Imperfection- An Artist’s Encouragement!”