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For as long as I can remember, I have been creative. While I started out drawing, then ceramics and textiles, I finally found a love for jewelry after visiting a beading studio with my mom and sister. Not content to simply bead, I searched for a technique that would allow the creativity and uniqueness I desired. Kumihimo, the ancient art of Japanese braiding filled that need. I started braiding cords, then beads, which I still do, but really found my muse in wire. I taught myself the techniques through several books, but the one that inspired me the most was Giovanna Imperia's book on Kumihimo wire. I worked my way through the patterns and experimented with different gauges and techniques. Each piece is designed and created by me. I handcraft my clasps, bezels, ear wires and some chain. Each braid starts with bundles of 28-36 gauge wire that are carefully worked on a round or square disk. It takes several hours depending on the complexity of the braid. The woven piece is then milled and fabricated and framed in heavy gauge wire for a bracelet. For neck wires, pendants and earrings woven in fine silver and copper, I solder the weaves after they are milled, fabricate them, and apply a torch fired or liver of sulfur patina. I also create bezels which are soldered and prepared for resin. I do an initial resin cast, which I allow to set, then inlay the weave into the resin and cast a second layer. This process takes several days start to finish, but it is a labor of love. I really can't imagine doing anything else artistically. This is my passion.
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