How it’s Made

Gale Schadewald Sundstrom Mask
PPE IS IMPORTANT TO ME!

 

Welcome to my world of nature inspired jewelry, where organic elements intertwine gracefully. Handcrafted in Fort Collins, Colorado, I pour my heart into creating pieces that are organic, nature inspired, and oh-so-special in their own unique way.

Drawing Inspiration from Nature’s Beauty

The journey begins with a vision, I thoughtfully design the artwork using a graphic design program, every detail bearing significance, emotion and story. Each piece reflects the tranquility of a forest, the grace of a bird, or the charm of a blooming meadow. There’s organic beauty in every creation, a connection to the natural world that sets them apart. The design is then transferred onto the copper sheet using a unique heat-transfer technique.

Next, comes the delicate dance of acid and copper. The prepared metal is submerged into a bath of acid, and the etching time is monitored to achieve the desired depth and texture. The acid is then carefully neutralized, stopping its action and the resist is removed to reveal the etched design.

Hand-Finished Perfection: Honoring Nature’s Intent

To give each piece a smooth and comfortable finish, I hand-file and sand the edges of the metal. I anneal the copper to make it soft and I delicately shape the metal into its final form.

Some pieces undergo further transformation, with coloring techniques to emphasize the intricate details. I apply a protective metal sealer to ensure long-lasting, captivating colors. For those who appreciate the true essence of copper, I offer the option to leave the metal unsealed, allowing it to develop a natural patina over time.

Safety First: Protecting the Artist, Creating with Passion

Throughout this artistic journey, safety is paramount. I take every precaution, wearing the necessary Personal Protective Equipment to protect my well-being, allowing me to focus solely on bringing forth the beauty of nature through my art.

Years of dedication and refinement have led me to create jewelry that captures the essence of nature’s wonders in their simplest and most captivating form. I take immense pride in the intricate details and delicate colors that adorn my creations.

Embrace the Beauty: Discover Your Perfect Nature-Inspired Piece

If you’re drawn to the beauty of nature and appreciate the elegance of simplicity, my jewelry pieces are meant just for you. Come, explore the natural charm and grace that defines my work. Experience the magic of nature handcrafted in wearable art.

In the videos below, I demonstrate a few metalsmithing techniques. Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube Channel today so you get updates on my jewelry technique videos, as well as other content, here: http://bit.ly/30GFGcA