Waxing Lyrical!

I've been having great fun over the last few weeks learning some new skills. I was intrigued to hear about an ancient Japanese wax making technique that creates truly unique shapes. Hand made Mitsuro Hikime wax is made from beeswax and pine resin. It creates beautiful ridges and wrinkles that mimic natural form. I eagerly awaited the arrival of my order. What landed on my doorstep looked like a bar of Caramac, remember that sweet treat,? But undeterred I followed the instructions and melted a couple of squares onto a baking sheet. From there I began to soften and work the wax with my fingers, gently stretching and refolding, and stretching agai,n until the characteristic ridges began to appear. I loved the way the wax yielded and it particularly lended itself to forming spirals and loops. It's such a peaceful way of making jewellery, so far from the heat and hammering of traditional silversmithing. Once I was happy with the shapes, I sent the wax models to be cast in Sterling silver. I'm delighted with the ring, earrings and pendant. Safe to say you'll be seeing more designs like this on my website soon!