Silver Diploma Term 1 - Part 2
I feel these weeks are when the diploma got a bit more exciting, especially week 7 and 8.
Week 6 was all about polishing. No making this week just learning how to create a mirror finish, or a satin finish for our existing pieces. I used my ring from week 2 for my mirror finish, also from week 2 my heart pendant had a hammered finish and then my flush set pendant had a matt/satin finish.
Wahoo, the next 2 weeks were my favourite weeks and mainly the reason why I wanted to do the Diploma. Week 7 and 8 are all about stone setting, in particular Cabochon, Flush and Tube setting.
I had a little experience with cabochon setting but by using pre-made bezel cups and just setting a stone into the bezel, but for this week I had to make the bezel from scratch which was tricky being so small and fiddly.
Flush setting - I have wanted to do this style of setting for almost a year and can’t wait to practice in the next couple of weeks during our break from the diploma.
And finally my favourite stone setting to date is the tube setting. I enjoyed it so much I just had to use 3 stones in the one ring. I can't wait to get it back so I can wear it. I am going to have a whole collection around this setting style.
Week 9 Rivets and hinges - again I can’t wait to incorporate these new skills into future designs. I actually have some designs already that require these skills so will be able to bring my ideas to life.
Week 10 Wax carving
I was really looking forward to this week as I was intrigued as to how easy or hard this would be and what styles and creations you can make with Wax. Unfortunately the dreaded ‘Covid’ hit the household this week and kind of threw our lives upside down. My pieces were pretty basic but I really didn't have the concentration, time nor enthusiasm to experiment so luckily we revisit wax in either term 2 or 3, which will be nice as this method of making definitely deserves more practice and research
And that sums up term 1 of my Silver Diploma, thank you if you have stuck around to read this and I hope you will follow me for Term 2 in the New Year.
Merry Christmas to you all and Happy New Year
Mel xxx
