Some tips and tricks

~ When you sift enamel onto a piece, you only need holding agent on the bottom layer.  I find that if you use less holding agent, you get a more sincere bond between the layers of enamel. 
~ In bringing your piece down on the flame, go slow.  For two reasons; If it's fine silver, you don't want to make it go Terminator or it will ruin your pattern.  Also, if you are wet-packing or using holding agent, you want it to dry completely before the enamel cures.
~ If you are doing a cloisonne piece, go for 3 layers after you set the wires. You get a much deeper color and a little more flexibility when blending. 
~ When in doubt, counter enamel. 
~ Keep Creating ;)

Stone Set with Enamel - all torch fired!

I am very excited to have finished my first stone set with enamel completely torch fired piece.  I first put on the coat of counter enamel (Thompson Black), then attached the tube setting.  From there I wet packed the enamel in two layers then drilled the setting and set the stone!  I am very excited to incorporate this new technique into my designs. 

The Artist Exchange in Fuquay

I had a great day working at the Artist Exchange in Downtown Fuquay (118 Raleigh St.).  It's a new Artist Co-op that just formed about a month ago.  We are still working on getting off the ground and running, but I am very excited about all the great art that is being displayed.  We have such a variety of artists at a wide range of price points.  If you are in the area, I highly suggest checking it out.  Keep Creating

It's Been Busy

I've been very busy lately, but the good kind. I've been participating in a lot of shows and sharing experiences and experiments with other artists.  Some shows you may have seen me at are the Morning Times First Friday Market, and the Rebus Saturday Market.  I was delighted to speak with Lillian Jones (a local enamel artist, www.enamellist.com) about torch firing enamels at this past Saturday's market. 

I am currently looking for ideas about soldering under enamel.  I have eutectic solder on order from Thompson but was wondering if anyone out there has tried it or has an tips or tricks when using it.