Collection N. 1

I have been thinking for some time about creating a collection. I have read and heard that in the jewelry business, creating a specific collection helps promote your business in many different ways. I always believed my jewelry creations were connected and similar in their style, one big jewelry collection, lol. However, I thought it was time to give it a go and try to make a more specific collection.

My first question obviously was what do I make? Do I try something new? Do I incorporate my favorite techniques in the new collection? How many pieces? I could never really find a definite answer on how many pieces makes a collection so I figured I would start with a small one. I also wondered what to call my collection?  Many different names went through my mind, but in the end I kept it simple,  Collection N. 1.  This way the next collection will be easy to name:-))

I decided also to stick with what I know, hollow forms. I wanted the pieces to be double sided and to have movement. The necklaces and bracelets can be worn on either side and the hollow forms of the rings can spin. Each ring has a different texture design on each side also. You can change the side that is visible by  flipping the hollow form of the ring.                                        

The rings are definitely my favorite but somewhat challenging to make. Therefore this is a very limited edition. Because of the ring band and the movement of the hollow form it was hard to determine the ring size. There are simple equations I use when making a ring to determine how much material I need for the ring shank. Since this is not a traditional ring shank the equations were useless, I just hoped for the best. The size varies a little depending on which textured side of the ring is facing up or visible. There is about 1/4 ring size difference. At first I thought, well this is crazy!  After a while I thought maybe this is a good thing? The ring can be worn on different fingers. Trying to look at the positive side of things. In the end I still love all the rings. Here is a little video of how they spin.

The necklaces were also fun to make. I  could continue to make hollow forms for the rest of my life. I can't decide which side I like more, the textured side or the sides with the patches. (top photo)

I will admit this was not easy for me and I learned a few things.  I realized it was very hard for me to fabricate this collection in batches. When I make my knot rings or bangles I can easily fabricate in large batches. I found it hard to work on several different designs at the same time. A little confusing. When I start on a new design I only have a general idea of what I want. My creations change and evolve as I go along. I would work on the collection and then have to step away for a little. This is probably why it took me so long. Of course starting a collection in the middle of show season was probably a mistake, but I do love a good challenge. As always there was a lot of circus soldering involved in making this new collection. Got this one on the first try, so glad the balancing act worked!!

  Before I even finished this collection I started thinking of a second collection and all the possibilities. Now I can't wait to start creating, this could become addicting. My next collection will be all about turquoise. This time I promise not to keep it a secret, you can follow my progress on Instragram. A big thanks to everyone who follows and supports my artwork!!!