The next step in making filigree is the soldering work! It takes forever, since you have to be very meticulous about soldering every single tiny joint, including the insides of the swirl designs. Here is a photo in the middle of the process, and one right after they come out of the pickle! Yes, I have a lot of firescale, but that will not be for long :)
Now that you've got smooth, flat frame pieces, you get to do the arranging of the final design! Like I mentioned before, I'm doing a random design, so I just piece the little pretties into the frame like a puzzle. You want them to fit snugly against eachother so that you can solder each and every piece. I make them so snug that sometimes one jumps up out of the frame!
If you're like me, your pretty little swirlies are all a bit bent out of shape. You'll want to flatten them, and also make sure that all the middles of the twirls are closed loops, so your finished filigree design won't snag on hair or clothing. I use a rawhide mallet and a bench block to gently hammer my designs flat. And now from this picture I realize how badly I need to clean my bench!
After you've got your bazillion strips of filigree wire, its time to start bending them into pretties. Don't forget to save all your snippets of silver wire!
As mentioned in the today's title, I am making filigree. I have lots of nummy wire and will be snipping and twisting away until I have four gorgeous heart pendants, which will be set with birthstones for a custom order. I am having camera difficulties, but will post photos of the process when I can! Wish me luck :)
Makin' Filigree! I've sold four heart pendants but need more, and even though they'll be a little late for most Valentine's day shoppers, I think they will be a great addition to my shop. I ran out of my favorite venetian box chain though, so I have to make do with crappy craft store sterling silver chain. Pooey!
Ok - I admit it, I'm not much for celebrating Valentine's day. I have a history of negativity associated with February 14th.. My first boyfriend dumped me on a Valentine's day, I've had the flu more than once on V-day, I've been forgotten a few of times on the 14th..
That having been said, I consider Valentine's Day a great excuse to make something delicate and girly, and full of hearts. I made a matching ring too, but I'm keeping it ;)
