Experimenting with different finishes, developing your techniques or making small changes to an existing design can all give you new ways to approach the jewellery you make.
Here are four areas to consider, with practical ideas you can apply to your own jewellery making.
1. Finishing your jewellery
The type of finish you choose can also change the overall look. A high polish will give a very different result to a matt, satin or textured surface, so think about which works best with the design rather than automatically using the same finish each time.
Using a satin polishing wheel with a pendant motor will add a delicate satin finish to silver without the use of a compound, while a medium ‘frosting wheel’ will create a more defined matt finish.
2. Developing your techniques
Learning a new technique doesn’t just give you something new to practise. It can give you more options with the jewellery you already make.
Stone setting is one area you could explore, introducing colour and another detail to your designs. Premade settings can be a useful starting point, such as a 6mm Sterling Silver Round Bezel Cup, which can be soldered directly onto your jewellery and paired with a 6mm gemstone. Try adding a 6mm Pink Tourmaline to introduce colour to your design.
3. Using materials differently
Combining different metals is one way to introduce contrast. Adding gold alongside silver can bring another colour into a design and help particular details stand out.
You can emphasise that contrast further by changing the appearance of the silver. Using an oxidising solution darkens the silver while the gold generally remains bright, creating a stronger contrast between the two metals. Always follow the product instructions when using an oxidising solution.
4. Choosing the right findings
Findings might be some of the smallest parts of a design, but choosing the right ones can make a noticeable difference. If you’re making a pendant, consider whether the jump rings are the right diameter and proportion for the design.
Rather than relying on ready-made sizes, you could make your own jump rings to give you more control. Durston Multi Mandrel Forming Pliers 140mm provide different mandrel sizes for forming your own, while the Durston Jump Ring Maker Complete Forming Set offers a dedicated option if making jump rings is something you do more regularly.
Experimenting with a different finish, trying a new technique or using your materials in a different way can all bring something new to your jewellery making. Next time you’re at the bench, try one of these ideas and see how it could transform your next design.
Harvey Wedgbury