silentgoddess crazy little metal studio: 2011

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Project Runway Season 9 Episode 3

Trapeze Artist

This week's challenge was "Go Big or Go Home" and I had my initial design in my head from the get-go. I wanted to do a big ring and at first I thought I was going to create it using sheet metal and make a large, solid piece. Instead I constructed a lightweight "trapeze" form and added a kinetic element! The shape of the ring remained the same as it first presented itself in my head but the final concept was just a tad different that what it was going to be. I could not be more happy with how it turned out!
It is constructed out of sterling silver, copper and a really beautiful square faceted blue green chalcedony cabochon.

Here was our challenge (written by Nina Dinoff)

The Project Runway Challenge:
The designers were asked to design a piece for a model on stilts for the first ever outdoor runway show.

For our EtsyMetal Translation:
Since this challenge was all about going over the top, this week make it BIG, over the top, larger and crazier than you would normally do, but still trying to keep it wearable and fashionable. Should be a fun one!

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Project Runway Season 9 Episode 2

My Pet Project:

Twigs
I had to do something super simple this week because one of my oldest friends was visiting from out of town and my studio time was scarce. During my quick trip to the pet store I discovered some cool natural twig sticks that little rodent critters like to nibble on. I used my saw to get them to the right length, added some sterling silver bezel caps and eye pins to them and viola', simple and cool stick earrings!

Here was our challenge (written by Nina Dinoff)

The Project Runway Challenge:
In this episode, the challenge was to create an outfit using pet store supplies. They were allowed to use muslin as well, but were encouraged not to.

For our EtsyMetal Translation:
Yup, you guessed it. The EM challenge is to make a piece of jewelry using pet store supplies! Try to limit your time in the pet store to 30 minutes. You may use some metal in the piece but try to use as little as possible. Make it work!

Thursday, August 04, 2011

Project Runway Season 9 Episode 1

Come As you Are:

Waif pendant

I confess. I have never watched Project Runway. I do now. After just one episode I am hooked.

Here was our challenge (written by Nina Dinoff)
The Project Runway Challenge:
The designers had to use the clothes they slept in the night before plus one of their bedsheets to create a new look. They also had access to dye and trimmings.

For our EtsyMetal Translation:
Since this challenge was all about using what you have in an unexpected way, and since most of us don’t sleep in jewelry, the challenge this week is to make something only from material that is sitting on your bench! If you don’t have a bench or access to your studio, then choose another area like your desk. Since the designers got a sheet, we get some sheet metal. You are welcome to use enhancements like stones from your supplies. But the final piece should be made of a majority of your found pieces if possible. Ok now, make it work!

_______________________________________

My Waif pendant was constructed solely of bits and scraps that were on top of my bench (not even in my metal scraps bags!!) and the design pretty much took care of itself. I had really elaborate plans using copper strips, sterling silver strips, gemstones etc. But after I passed a 18gauge sterling silver scrap thru the rolling mill, I knew exactly what I was meant to do. The scrap came out looking like a long, flowing, waif thin simple dress form. All I added was a scrap silver "belt" and "spaghetti shoulder strap" and my Waif pendant was complete.

Can't WAIT for this week's episode tonight!