I started my metalsmithing jewellery class 3 weeks ago, and at first I hated sawing metal. It was hard on my hands and I felt it was very messy and dirty. After 3 lessons, I’ve finished my first project, a brass brooch. Now I can say that I do enjoy it for the most part. It’s rewarding to have a piece of jewellery completed. It looks easy, but believe me, it takes more work. I believe it took me 6 hours to make this, a lot of the time is spent on filing and using different grades of sand paper to even out straight lines and curves. I hope I can make more at home when I have the equipment.

Anyway, on to the photos.

I love the sandblasted texture. I even put it on the back. The pin was once shiny, like a regular brooch pin back that’s glued or sewn on. I thought this would be the best finish since I can’t do this myself at home. I may be able to make a piece into a high polish if I get a rotary tool. The class uses a polishing wheel. It’s huge, and no way I could ever afford one!


It wasn’t easy to refine the curved holes. They’re still a little wonky. Luckily sandblasting hides many of the flaws. 🙂

The next project is a silver Russian wedding ring. I’ve taken some work-in-progress pics this time, and I’ll continue to do so until I finish the final piece. Not sure what the last project will be. It could be a bracelet.

On 30th April / 1st May, my Purple Donut Studs listing was chosen to be in the Etsy Finds newsletter. The theme for this newsletter was “Conversation Piece”, so my funky donuts fit in, I suppose! I didn’t even know anything about it, so imagine my surprise in the morning when I had about 20 sales!

"Conversation Piece"

The craziness has slowed down today. I’ll be busy for at least the next week and a half. SO many orders… it will take me a little longer than usual to make them all. I hope customers understand!

I am still deeply honoured to be chosen. Thanks, Etsy team!