1. Well, the obvious, BEADS!: And now couldn't be a better time to come pick out a few strands of pearl, semi-precious stones or unique loose beads as we are having our December 20% off sale! Yay!
2. Optivisor: great for anyone working with small detailed items. Fits snug on the head and is light weight and comfortable to wear. Visor flips up when not looking down at an item close up.
3. Ott-lite: These sweet little babies will help those tired eyes turn to bright eyes and show a true color too! Rests on the table, very mobile and turns on with an easy flip top. My favorite gift 6 years ago, so far never burned out a bulb!
4. Five-sided file set: This nice little set is fantastic for opening up holes in beads, esp. pearls, that are just too tight to fit onto your wire or cord. Each file is a slightly larger size and they are tapered to maximize your reaming ability. Every beader needs one in my opinion.
5. Charmed, I'm sure: Okay, cheese aside, Charmed by Gabriella Sellors is a great little book for anyone interested in adding a little flare and dangle to their beadwork. While you are at it we have some pretty fantastic sterling silver charms that would fit into any stocking!
Located in Bellingham, Washington (between Seattle and Vancouver, BC) at: 521 Kentucky Street, Bellingham, WA 98225 Pouncing Rain Jewelry and Metal Working Center is a community education center. We offer ongoing weekly classes in jewelry making and silversmithing, as well as one and two day workshops in various other jewelry making techniques. We have a studio membership program for students and community jewelry/metal artist to work independently in our fully equipped studio.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Top Five Great Gifts Found at Pouncing Rain:
Top Five Great Gifts Found at Pouncing Rain:
1. Fretz Hammers: These little precision beauties were unanimously number one on everyone’s list. We are now carrying the standard set of five (sold individually and in a set) as well as the mini set, riveting hammer and newly in: chasing hammer. I can personally attest to the wonderful feeling of opening up a package and finding one of these quality tool as my husband and his family bought me the standard set a couple of winter’s ago, I’m still thanking him!
2. Quality Cutters/Pliers: Both the Tronex and Lindstrom lines carried by P.R. make fabulous gifts. Ergonomic and comfortable to use, the Swiss made Lindstrom pliers and American made Tronex doesn’t get better for precision cutting, bending and wrapping your wire and metals. Relieving strain on your hands and reducing mistakes in your work, I would recommend these lines to anyone working with wire or other metal crafts.
3. Books: Two top favs; Joanna Goldbergs’s The Art and Craft of Making Jewelry, great for all levels from beginner to the more experienced jewelry artist this book is full of inspirational pictures, clear and concise directions and tips useful for all studios. Complete Metalsmith, ProPlus Edition by Tim McCreight, the more in-depth version of his studio reference guide, this book takes you beyond just the basic techniques and into more of the technicalities and how-to’s, great for anyone wanting to round out their studio selection of education, (in fact this one’s on my wish list!) Comes with a CD.
4. Flex Shaft: A must have for anyone setting up a studio at home. This invaluable tool can be used to sand, polish, drill, and texture. Think of it as your go-go gadget arm when working at your bench. Comes with motor, hand-piece, shaft and foot pedal.
5. Sheet Metal/Wire: Who doesn’t love something bright and shiny, especially when we can take it and make something fabulous with it, having more fun while creating than if someone handed you a finish product. P.R. carries many different sizes of Sterling silver sheet and wire, as well as copper and brass. And don’t forget the warm colors of bronze and gold-filled wire for those gold lovers!
-Ryan
www.pouncingrain.com
1. Fretz Hammers: These little precision beauties were unanimously number one on everyone’s list. We are now carrying the standard set of five (sold individually and in a set) as well as the mini set, riveting hammer and newly in: chasing hammer. I can personally attest to the wonderful feeling of opening up a package and finding one of these quality tool as my husband and his family bought me the standard set a couple of winter’s ago, I’m still thanking him!
2. Quality Cutters/Pliers: Both the Tronex and Lindstrom lines carried by P.R. make fabulous gifts. Ergonomic and comfortable to use, the Swiss made Lindstrom pliers and American made Tronex doesn’t get better for precision cutting, bending and wrapping your wire and metals. Relieving strain on your hands and reducing mistakes in your work, I would recommend these lines to anyone working with wire or other metal crafts.
3. Books: Two top favs; Joanna Goldbergs’s The Art and Craft of Making Jewelry, great for all levels from beginner to the more experienced jewelry artist this book is full of inspirational pictures, clear and concise directions and tips useful for all studios. Complete Metalsmith, ProPlus Edition by Tim McCreight, the more in-depth version of his studio reference guide, this book takes you beyond just the basic techniques and into more of the technicalities and how-to’s, great for anyone wanting to round out their studio selection of education, (in fact this one’s on my wish list!) Comes with a CD.
4. Flex Shaft: A must have for anyone setting up a studio at home. This invaluable tool can be used to sand, polish, drill, and texture. Think of it as your go-go gadget arm when working at your bench. Comes with motor, hand-piece, shaft and foot pedal.
5. Sheet Metal/Wire: Who doesn’t love something bright and shiny, especially when we can take it and make something fabulous with it, having more fun while creating than if someone handed you a finish product. P.R. carries many different sizes of Sterling silver sheet and wire, as well as copper and brass. And don’t forget the warm colors of bronze and gold-filled wire for those gold lovers!
-Ryan
www.pouncingrain.com
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
December Bead Sale 20% Off
December is here and we are offering all of our BEADS at 20% OFF the regular price. This is the first time ever we have offered such a big markdown and it is just for December only!
So, if it is a bead and it has a hole drilled in it, it is 20% OFF.
We are open 10:00-5:30 Monday to Friday and from 10:00-3:00 Saturdays.
So, if it is a bead and it has a hole drilled in it, it is 20% OFF.
We are open 10:00-5:30 Monday to Friday and from 10:00-3:00 Saturdays.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Members Photography Special Event
Members Photography Special Event
Pouncing Rain has joined forces with Michael Hopkins, a professional Bellingham photographer to offer members high quality professional photography of your jewelry pieces.
We are offering a 15 minute session for only $20.00. This should be time enough for 1 maybe 2 pieces. Michael is also offering a special artist discount for those who would like to book him at a later date.
The date is December 4th . There are a few spaces left and the times are in 15 minutes increments. Payment is required to book your spot. Give us a call or better yet stop in the shop.
www.pouncingrain.com
Pouncing Rain has joined forces with Michael Hopkins, a professional Bellingham photographer to offer members high quality professional photography of your jewelry pieces.
We are offering a 15 minute session for only $20.00. This should be time enough for 1 maybe 2 pieces. Michael is also offering a special artist discount for those who would like to book him at a later date.
The date is December 4th . There are a few spaces left and the times are in 15 minutes increments. Payment is required to book your spot. Give us a call or better yet stop in the shop.
www.pouncingrain.com
Friday, November 13, 2009
Bubba's Back!
Attention all member's! After many weeks (dare a say months) our beloved hydrolic press returns to us, fixed and ready to assist you with your hydrolic press needs. Come on in and say "hi", we have many open studio hours happening before the holidays for you to finish any projects for selling or gifts.
-Ryan
-Ryan
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Members Halloween Party
We had lots of fun at the members Halloween Party. Check out the picture slideshow on the left of this page.
Friday, October 30, 2009
Chain Mail Book Review
Lately we’ve been bringing in several new books to fill our shelves, so you at home can fill yours. Here is one of the new titles I think is quite worth checking out.
Chain Mail Jewelry, by Terry Taylor and Dylon Whyte, another favorite from Lark Books! The first chain making book I’ve seen to go so in depth with different materials, titanium, rubber, sterling and copper just to name a few. After reviewing materials and tools needed they dive right into each project with both clear concise written directions as well as visual diagrams and beautiful glossy photos. I find that, with chain making in particular, a good visual diagram is worth a thousand words, and Taylor and Whyte provide. With 29 different projects, from beginner to advanced you are taken through both heavier, masculine jewelry as well as fun and fanciful more delicate projects, even adding beads in to your mail. From Whyte’s spiraling chain to Rachel Dow’s coif cage amulet, this book is a must have for anyone interested in the fine art of chain mail craft.
Chain Mail Jewelry, by Terry Taylor and Dylon Whyte, another favorite from Lark Books! The first chain making book I’ve seen to go so in depth with different materials, titanium, rubber, sterling and copper just to name a few. After reviewing materials and tools needed they dive right into each project with both clear concise written directions as well as visual diagrams and beautiful glossy photos. I find that, with chain making in particular, a good visual diagram is worth a thousand words, and Taylor and Whyte provide. With 29 different projects, from beginner to advanced you are taken through both heavier, masculine jewelry as well as fun and fanciful more delicate projects, even adding beads in to your mail. From Whyte’s spiraling chain to Rachel Dow’s coif cage amulet, this book is a must have for anyone interested in the fine art of chain mail craft.
ryan@pouncingrain.com
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
New Dapping and Forming Block
Checkout our large, rosewood dapping and forming block. As one customer put it “Wow, that’s so pretty you could just stick it on a table in your living room for display!” I have to agree with her, this tool is just that beautiful. With two, 5” across, round depressions, one shallow and one deep, and four multi-size swaging channels, you will find so many uses!
Members Halloween Social
Who is invited: Members, Former Members and Instructed Studio Members
When: Friday October 30th 6:00-9:00
Where: Pouncing Rain
Here is a reminder about the “Members Social” on October 30 (This Friday from 6:00-9:00). There will be Tricks and Treats and costumes for those who want to dress up. A big surprise announcement and great fun. Bring your favorite Trick or Treat to share and something for show and tell.
What I can tell you about the surprise is: if you come to the “social” you get a priority place for the “Surprise” if you come in costume you will get " something more! ”.
I won’t tell you what the surprise is but I will say is:
· we are really excited
· there will be a long list of people who will want to “participate”
See you all here on Friday!
kathleen@pouncingrain.com
When: Friday October 30th 6:00-9:00
Where: Pouncing Rain
Here is a reminder about the “Members Social” on October 30 (This Friday from 6:00-9:00). There will be Tricks and Treats and costumes for those who want to dress up. A big surprise announcement and great fun. Bring your favorite Trick or Treat to share and something for show and tell.
What I can tell you about the surprise is: if you come to the “social” you get a priority place for the “Surprise” if you come in costume you will get " something more! ”.
I won’t tell you what the surprise is but I will say is:
· we are really excited
· there will be a long list of people who will want to “participate”
See you all here on Friday!
kathleen@pouncingrain.com
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Additional Hours For Open Studio
We have added an evening "Open Studio" this Friday, October 23rd, from 5:00 to 8:30. Come by and work on those projects. The Holidays are sneaking up on us all. We also have added a Saturday "Open Studio" November 7th 10:00am to 3:00pm.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Tip From Our "How-To-Solder" Class
This is a "Tip" from our recent "How-to-Solder" Class.
This is a recipe for a Pickling solution that will help remove that pink layer from your soldered or annealed brass. There are many variations of this recipe. Remember to wear safety glasses when working with acid and wash from your skin if it does touch it.
MILD
2 parts Hydrogen Peroxide (3%).
1 part water.
2 parts fresh/clean Sparex solution.
STRONG
1/2 cup Hydrogen Peroxide (3%).
1 Tablespoon fresh/clean Sparex solution.
PROCEDURE:
STEP #1: Pre-pickle the piece in standard Sparex and rinse well. These pickles work best when warm but not hot. All the black oxides should be removed in this step.
STEP #2: Place the Hydrogen Peroxide pickle container in a second bowl of hot water to keep it warm. If possible suspend the piece in the warm pickle or stir it gently with a feather or plastic rod . After a moment bubbles should appear on the piece. Agitate or brush with a feather to clear the bubbles. Remove the piece from the bath every couple of minutes to check the progress. It may take 5-10 minutes. Rinse well.
STEP #3: Use a stiff toothbrush or brass brush to remove residue and rinse.
STEP #4: Pickle again in standard Sparex to remove any remaining grime.
STEP #5: Repeat steps #2, #3 and #4 if necessary.
Kathleen
This is a recipe for a Pickling solution that will help remove that pink layer from your soldered or annealed brass. There are many variations of this recipe. Remember to wear safety glasses when working with acid and wash from your skin if it does touch it.
MILD
2 parts Hydrogen Peroxide (3%).
1 part water.
2 parts fresh/clean Sparex solution.
STRONG
1/2 cup Hydrogen Peroxide (3%).
1 Tablespoon fresh/clean Sparex solution.
PROCEDURE:
STEP #1: Pre-pickle the piece in standard Sparex and rinse well. These pickles work best when warm but not hot. All the black oxides should be removed in this step.
STEP #2: Place the Hydrogen Peroxide pickle container in a second bowl of hot water to keep it warm. If possible suspend the piece in the warm pickle or stir it gently with a feather or plastic rod . After a moment bubbles should appear on the piece. Agitate or brush with a feather to clear the bubbles. Remove the piece from the bath every couple of minutes to check the progress. It may take 5-10 minutes. Rinse well.
STEP #3: Use a stiff toothbrush or brass brush to remove residue and rinse.
STEP #4: Pickle again in standard Sparex to remove any remaining grime.
STEP #5: Repeat steps #2, #3 and #4 if necessary.
Kathleen
Soldering Class. What fun!
The soldering class with Judi Gauthier Saturday was a great hit. We had a full house of folks who wanted to either learn to solder or brush up on their soldering skills. One of the soldering hints Judi shared in class how to help remove the pinkish coating from brass with a Hydrogen Peroxide pickle. I will share several variations of that recipe in the next posting. If you missed this class we will be having it again real soon.
Kathleen
Kathleen
Thursday, October 8, 2009
October Gift
Judi Gauthier donated these orange crystal pendants to Pouncing Rain today, so we are giving them to you. Come by and pickup your free gift. We have a bunch, but when they are gone... they are gone.
Instructor Changes
Pouncing Rain Jewelry and Metal Working Center is sad to announce that effective immediately, Nanz Aalund is no longer teaching for us. We have been very fortunate in having had such an experienced instructor for the past year. Please join me in wishing Nanz the best of luck in the future.
With that said all of the classes and workshops on the calendar have been taken over by other talented and experienced instructors. Our founder, Judith Gauthier, will be teaching many of the in-house classes, as well as Ryan Albachten, Noelle Holland and myself. Anyone who has scheduled a class with Nanz Aalund and does not want to take the class with another instructor will be given a full refund. kathleen@pouncingrain.com
With that said all of the classes and workshops on the calendar have been taken over by other talented and experienced instructors. Our founder, Judith Gauthier, will be teaching many of the in-house classes, as well as Ryan Albachten, Noelle Holland and myself. Anyone who has scheduled a class with Nanz Aalund and does not want to take the class with another instructor will be given a full refund. kathleen@pouncingrain.com
New Fretz Chasing Hammers!
We are very excited to introduce the new Fretz chasing hammer. This is the long awaited addition to the Fretz Hammer lineup. This hammer has a highly polished cast stainless steel head with a slightly domed 1-1/8" (29mm) diameter hammer face with the ball peen end measuring 12mm. The head on the Fretz chasing hammer is hardened to 50c on the Rockwell scale. This is the ONLY hammer in the Fretz collection that is meant to be used against a tool or directly against steel. Like all Fretz hammers, the handle of the chasing hammer is made of Paduck, a type of Rosewood that makes one beautiful handle. Pouncing Rain has these hammers in stock and they sell for $56.00.
www.pouncingrain.com
www.pouncingrain.com
Sunday, October 4, 2009
An The Winner of the Poll is...
Fold Forming! Coming in 2nd place is Forging. So we have asked Bill Dawson to teach both. He will teach Fold Forming in a one day class Saturday, November 21, 2009 and Forging in a one day class Sunday, November 22, 2009! Take one or both of them. You can signup online at www.pouncingrain.com or call the shop at 360-715-3005.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Copper Clay and Bronze Clay Firing Promotion
COPPRclay and BRONZclay Firing
Promotion
We at Pouncing Rain know you want to play with the COPPRclay and BRONZclay but may not have a kiln to fire it in (sadly it must be fired in a kiln). BUT, we have a solution. If you buy your COPPRclay or BRONZclay from us, you can fire it in our kiln for only $4. a pan! There is some fine print, so here it is:
· You must provide your own stainless steel firing pan and carbon.
· Bring your dried COPPRclay or BRONZclay buried in the recommended amount of carbon in YOUR stainless steel firing pan.
· The pan must be in no larger than 6” x 7”x 4” Deep.
· We will fire at the manufactures recommended firing temperature and time.
· We are not responsible for the final product.
· You load the pan, you unload the pan.
· It may take up to 7 days to have your pieces fired.
www.pouncingrain.com
Promotion
We at Pouncing Rain know you want to play with the COPPRclay and BRONZclay but may not have a kiln to fire it in (sadly it must be fired in a kiln). BUT, we have a solution. If you buy your COPPRclay or BRONZclay from us, you can fire it in our kiln for only $4. a pan! There is some fine print, so here it is:
· You must provide your own stainless steel firing pan and carbon.
· Bring your dried COPPRclay or BRONZclay buried in the recommended amount of carbon in YOUR stainless steel firing pan.
· The pan must be in no larger than 6” x 7”x 4” Deep.
· We will fire at the manufactures recommended firing temperature and time.
· We are not responsible for the final product.
· You load the pan, you unload the pan.
· It may take up to 7 days to have your pieces fired.
www.pouncingrain.com
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Open on Monday and Tuesdays
The Pouncing Rain Store will start to be open on Mondays and Tuesdays starting after Labor Day. Our retail hours will be Monday-Friday 10:00-5:30 and Saturday 10:00-3:00. As always, classes are offered at various times during the week. Check-out our calendar http://www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=pouncingrain%40gmail.com&ctz=America/Los_Angeles for full details and hours. Be sure to visit us. We are located at 521 Kentucky Street, Bellingham, WA.
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Take Our Poll
We have a new instructor that will be teaching at Pouncing Rain, Bill Dawson. Bill teaches many classes and workshops, but we are thinking of having him teach 4 possible classes: Fold forming, Tool making, Anticlastic raising and Forging. Vote for your favorite or post another suggestion.
Visit our website for other classes and workshop we offer.
www.pouncingrain.com
Visit our website for other classes and workshop we offer.
www.pouncingrain.com
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Wire Wrap Just About Anything
Do you have a cabochon, beach rock, fossil or shells you would like to make into wearable jewelry? This class will show you how to create wire wrapped pendants! In this class you will be provided with a cabochon and copper wire to make a pendant, but bring along your own to make additional pendants (as time allows). No experience necessary.
Cost: $55.00 includes materials and use of all tools. Instructor: Nancy LaHatt
8/22/09 Saturday 10am - 2pm
http://pouncingrain.com/otherworkshops/wirewrappedcabochon.html
see our website for online enrollment or call us at 360-715-3005 to enroll by phone. www.pouncingrain.com
Cost: $55.00 includes materials and use of all tools. Instructor: Nancy LaHatt
8/22/09 Saturday 10am - 2pm
http://pouncingrain.com/otherworkshops/wirewrappedcabochon.html
see our website for online enrollment or call us at 360-715-3005 to enroll by phone. www.pouncingrain.com
Monday, August 10, 2009
Friday, August 7, 2009
Getting Tarnish Off Silver
Nanz Aalund has a tarnish cleaner recipe for all of us. She says this really works for all your silver jewelry as long as the stones can withstand the heat of very hot water
1. ½ teaspoon baking soda
2. ½ teaspoon table salt
3. 2 cups of water
4. Pyrex Glass Pan
5. Sheet of aluminum foil to fit glass pan
Fit the aluminum foil to the bottom of the baking pan/dish. Heat the baking soda, salt, and water ( on the stove ) in a Pyrex glass baking dish (one that can stand the heat of the stove top) to boil. Turn off the heat. The aluminum foil should be placed or fitted to the Pyrex dish before adding the salt, baking soda, and water mixture and before boiling.
This tarnish removal process can be done on silver jewelry with gemstones as long as the gemstones can withstand very hot water. If there is a question about the gemstone's heat durability let the water cool a bit.
Nanz swears this works! Let’s try it, sounds fun.
http://www.pouncingrain.com
1. ½ teaspoon baking soda
2. ½ teaspoon table salt
3. 2 cups of water
4. Pyrex Glass Pan
5. Sheet of aluminum foil to fit glass pan
Fit the aluminum foil to the bottom of the baking pan/dish. Heat the baking soda, salt, and water ( on the stove ) in a Pyrex glass baking dish (one that can stand the heat of the stove top) to boil. Turn off the heat. The aluminum foil should be placed or fitted to the Pyrex dish before adding the salt, baking soda, and water mixture and before boiling.
This tarnish removal process can be done on silver jewelry with gemstones as long as the gemstones can withstand very hot water. If there is a question about the gemstone's heat durability let the water cool a bit.
Nanz swears this works! Let’s try it, sounds fun.
http://www.pouncingrain.com
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
August Instructed Studio!
Nanz will be having August Instructed Studio! We were able to add 3 new Instructed Studio Sessions for August. They will be held Wed mornings from 9:30 to 12:30. The dates are August 5th, 12th and 19th. The price for one session is $48.00 or you can take the 3 for $93.75.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Secret Sale
Buy one strand of beads and get the 2nd strand of equal or lessor value free. You must print out this blog page and present it with your purchase. Not good on previous purchases. This sale will disappear soon, may be tomorrow or may be next week! You will not know when it will be gone, so print out this page today! Limited to one free strand.YOUR PURCHASE MUST BE MADE BY AUGUST 5 , 2009.http://www.pouncingrain.com
Pouning Rain Jewlery and Metal Center is located between Seattle, Washington and Vancouver, BC in beautiful Bellingham, WA
Pouning Rain Jewlery and Metal Center is located between Seattle, Washington and Vancouver, BC in beautiful Bellingham, WA
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
COPPRclay Workshop Date Set
COPPRclay Mini-Workshop
Explore copper clay in this 2 part mini-class. Find out what all the fuss is about by learning about this recycled copper and how to turn it into beautiful, funky jewelry. COPPRclay™ can be pinched, rolled, sculpted and manipulated. In its dried state, it's still highly flexible and easy to carve—ideal for applying details and finishing touches prior to firing.
Since COPPRclay is so much more cost effective ($19.98 for 100 grams) than silver clay (19.98 for 9 grams) it is a great way to be introduced to metal clays.
Your first evening will be all about the clay. Working it, shaping, forming and texturing it into pieces you will make into jewelry. We will then fire the clay for you during the next day and when you return to class.
On evening 2 your fired pieces will be ready to finish. Class includes 50 grams of clay and the use of the tools to make your pieces. Findings and chains are extra.
Cost: 85.00.
Instructor: Kathleen Yorston and Ryan Albachten
8/18/09 and 8/19/09, Tuesday 6:00-9:00 and Wednesday 6:00-8:00
you can signup on line at http://pouncingrain.com/pmcworkshops/copprclayandbronzclay.html
Explore copper clay in this 2 part mini-class. Find out what all the fuss is about by learning about this recycled copper and how to turn it into beautiful, funky jewelry. COPPRclay™ can be pinched, rolled, sculpted and manipulated. In its dried state, it's still highly flexible and easy to carve—ideal for applying details and finishing touches prior to firing.
Since COPPRclay is so much more cost effective ($19.98 for 100 grams) than silver clay (19.98 for 9 grams) it is a great way to be introduced to metal clays.
Your first evening will be all about the clay. Working it, shaping, forming and texturing it into pieces you will make into jewelry. We will then fire the clay for you during the next day and when you return to class.
On evening 2 your fired pieces will be ready to finish. Class includes 50 grams of clay and the use of the tools to make your pieces. Findings and chains are extra.
Cost: 85.00.
Instructor: Kathleen Yorston and Ryan Albachten
8/18/09 and 8/19/09, Tuesday 6:00-9:00 and Wednesday 6:00-8:00
you can signup on line at http://pouncingrain.com/pmcworkshops/copprclayandbronzclay.html
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
COPPRclay and BRONZclay Tip
If you’re also a silver clay artist (PMC or Art Clay), never use non-washable tools (files, abrasive papers, etc.) on both silver clay and COPPRclay™/BRONZclay™ projects. Keep a separate set of these tools reserved exclusively for BRONZclay™ and COPPRclay™.
Monday, July 20, 2009
SOLDERING TIP #2
WHAT YOU NEED TO SET-UP A JEWELRY SOLDERING STATION AT HOME
Solder - easy (also called soft), medium, and hard are three of the most used types
Flux
Thin paint brush
Container of water
Fire brick or compressed charcoal block
Copper tweezers
Pickle solution in a little crock-pot to keep it warm
Torch
Ceramic tile
Overhead light
1. Set the ceramic tile in the middle of your work area.
2. On top of the tile, set the fire brick or compressed charcoal block
3. To one side, set the water, paint brush, copper tweezers, pickle solution, flux, and solder.
4. On the other side, set up your torch
5. Set the over head light so that it shines over the brick and tile.
Now you are ready to start soldering. For classes and workshops on soldering and other jewelry making skills, visit our website at http://www.pouncingrain.com/
Solder - easy (also called soft), medium, and hard are three of the most used types
Flux
Thin paint brush
Container of water
Fire brick or compressed charcoal block
Copper tweezers
Pickle solution in a little crock-pot to keep it warm
Torch
Ceramic tile
Overhead light
1. Set the ceramic tile in the middle of your work area.
2. On top of the tile, set the fire brick or compressed charcoal block
3. To one side, set the water, paint brush, copper tweezers, pickle solution, flux, and solder.
4. On the other side, set up your torch
5. Set the over head light so that it shines over the brick and tile.
Now you are ready to start soldering. For classes and workshops on soldering and other jewelry making skills, visit our website at http://www.pouncingrain.com/
Saturday, July 18, 2009
BRONZclay Old Metal In New Form
The metal of choice as far back as 3500BC, bronze delivered more strength and durability than iron and commanded a higher price. Every day, bronze artifacts are unearthed, still in excellent condition, still rich in color, full of history and representing an incredible combination of skill and art.
Growing up, Bill Struve, the inventor of Bronze Clay (trade named BRONZclay™), thought about being a physicist or maybe a psychiatrist, but he wasn't interested in math or medical school. Instead, he earned a doctorate in classical chemistry and a master's in electrical engineering, working 20 years in each field before embarking on a third career: art, in the form of metallurgy.
His desire to produce a new medium for his wife to use to create strong, durable and wearable jewelry inspired Bill to experiment for countless hours before achieving success with BRONZclay™. As Bill developed BRONZclay, one of his goals was to keep its ingredients safe to use. Another was to keep the tools needed for working with the clay simple: nothing fancy, just the basics, a kiln and the artist's imagination. BRONZclay would be a gift to the artist, a new addition to the tool box.
Growing up, Bill Struve, the inventor of Bronze Clay (trade named BRONZclay™), thought about being a physicist or maybe a psychiatrist, but he wasn't interested in math or medical school. Instead, he earned a doctorate in classical chemistry and a master's in electrical engineering, working 20 years in each field before embarking on a third career: art, in the form of metallurgy.
His desire to produce a new medium for his wife to use to create strong, durable and wearable jewelry inspired Bill to experiment for countless hours before achieving success with BRONZclay™. As Bill developed BRONZclay, one of his goals was to keep its ingredients safe to use. Another was to keep the tools needed for working with the clay simple: nothing fancy, just the basics, a kiln and the artist's imagination. BRONZclay would be a gift to the artist, a new addition to the tool box.
This is a beautiful example of BRONZclay done by Yvonne Padilla. It demonstrates how the clay can be stamped, cut and finished into a great looking bracelet that anyone whould be preoud to wear, for a fraction of the cost of the Precious Metal Clay Silver! The cost of materials on this bracelet is less than $5.00 including the energy to fire it!
Send any pictures you would like to share to kathleen@pouncingrain.com and I will post them on the Pouncing Rain blog!
Friday, July 17, 2009
Copper Clay Is Green Too!
COPPRclay™ consists of pure copper, water and non-toxic binding materials. The binding materials vaporize completely during the kiln-firing process, leaving a solid copper piece with a density over 95% that of cast copper. And, all copper used to make COPPRclay™ is recycled!
Pouncing Rain carries copper wire, ideal for using with and incorporating into your COPPRclay™ designs.
kathleen@pouncingrain.com
Pouncing Rain carries copper wire, ideal for using with and incorporating into your COPPRclay™ designs.
kathleen@pouncingrain.com
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Solder Info For Jewlery Making #1
The word solder comes from the middle Englis word soudur, via Old French solduree and soulder, from the Latin solidare, meaning '‘to make solid’'.
In silversmithing or jewelry making, special solders are used. They contain a high proportion of the metal being soldered and lead is not used in these alloys. These solders also come in a variety of hardnesses, known as 'IT', 'hard', 'medium' and 'easy'. IT solder has a high melting point, close to that of the material itself, to prevent the joint desoldering during firing in the enamelling process. The remaining solder types are used in decreasing order of hardness during the process of making an item, to prevent a previously soldered seam or joint desoldering while soldering a new joint. Easy solder is also often used for repair work for the same reason.
-kathleen
www.pouncingrain.com
In silversmithing or jewelry making, special solders are used. They contain a high proportion of the metal being soldered and lead is not used in these alloys. These solders also come in a variety of hardnesses, known as 'IT', 'hard', 'medium' and 'easy'. IT solder has a high melting point, close to that of the material itself, to prevent the joint desoldering during firing in the enamelling process. The remaining solder types are used in decreasing order of hardness during the process of making an item, to prevent a previously soldered seam or joint desoldering while soldering a new joint. Easy solder is also often used for repair work for the same reason.
-kathleen
www.pouncingrain.com
July Silversmith Summer Camp
The "July Silversmith Summer Camp" is in full swing. Today is all about the soldering. Torch use, sweat soldering, butt soldering, pick soldering... tons of information about what you need to solder jewelry and why you need it. The how-to-do-it is all hands on so it is a good thing the weather has changed and is cool here in Belingham.
Check out our soldering jump rings video at www.pouncingrain.com
Check out our soldering jump rings video at www.pouncingrain.com
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Happy 4th Of July
Happy 4th to all. We are closed for the 4th and will reopen Monday at 10:00 am. Silversmith Camp start Monday so the store is open Monday and Tuesday!
-Kathleen
-Kathleen
Thursday, July 2, 2009
July Instructed Studio
July Instructed Studio: Continue working in a group class environment with Nanz’s help and advice. You will work on projects of your design with your supplies. Enrollment in the class allows you member discounts and participation in member events. Instructor: Nanz Aalund Cost $125 for 4 weeks or $48 a session 7/1, 7/15, 7/22 and 7/29 , Wednesday morning 9:30-12:30
See more at www.pouncingrain.com
See more at www.pouncingrain.com
Do We Have Your Email Address?
Our newsletter is mailed quarterly only, so if you have not been receiving your copy of the Pouncing Rain newsletter every month, make sure we have your current email address. We email the newsletter every month but only mail it quarterly. Don’t miss out on the news.
Members Social
All current, former or future interested members join us for a member’s Social on Wednesday evening July 22nd from 6:00-8:00’ish. Bring your “show and tell” treasures, favorite summer treat to share , and join us for some social time. We will visit, problem solve and celebrate this wonderful creative passion we all have in common.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
What Is Copper Clay?
Welcome to the next step in the evolution of metal clay: Copper clay, or its trade name: COPPRclay™ provides an incredible artistic range. And, because it ’s so affordable, it can be used to sculpt large pieces and create specialized tools—it can even be thrown on a potter’s wheel to shape copper hollowware. Available in generous 100- and 200-gram blocks, COPPRclay™ allows the artist to experiment with how far (and big!) designs can go.
COPPRclay™ can be pinched, rolled, sculpted and manipulated. In its dried state, it’s still highly flexible and easy to carve—ideal for applying details and finishing touches prior to firing. When fired in a kiln, the binder vaporizes, leaving a solid, pure copper object that can be sawn, shaped, drilled, sanded, patinaed or soldered using traditional jewelry tools and techniques. And because COPPRclay™ is pure copper, it’s perfect for artists who work with enamels. This exciting product offers a new world of possibilities for jewelry-makers, artists and sculptors.
COPPRclay™ consists of pure copper, water and non-toxic binding materials. The binding materials vaporize completely during the kiln-firing process, leaving a solid copper piece with a density over 95% that of cast copper. And, all copper used to make COPPRclay™ is recycled!
-Kathleen
COPPRclay™ can be pinched, rolled, sculpted and manipulated. In its dried state, it’s still highly flexible and easy to carve—ideal for applying details and finishing touches prior to firing. When fired in a kiln, the binder vaporizes, leaving a solid, pure copper object that can be sawn, shaped, drilled, sanded, patinaed or soldered using traditional jewelry tools and techniques. And because COPPRclay™ is pure copper, it’s perfect for artists who work with enamels. This exciting product offers a new world of possibilities for jewelry-makers, artists and sculptors.
COPPRclay™ consists of pure copper, water and non-toxic binding materials. The binding materials vaporize completely during the kiln-firing process, leaving a solid copper piece with a density over 95% that of cast copper. And, all copper used to make COPPRclay™ is recycled!
-Kathleen
Monday, June 29, 2009
BRONZclay and COPPRclay At Pouncing Rain
Big News! Pouncing Rain is now a COPPRclay™ and BRONZclay™ distributor. We are currently one of the few retailer/distributors in North America and will carry a full line of both the copper and bronze clay.
Many of you have used the silver Precious Metal Clay (called PMC), or maybe recently the BRONZclay, but COPPRclay has just been released for sale, and we have it for you to play with. Our price is $19.98 for the 100 grams and $35.98 for the 200 grams. This is the same (or better) pricing you would get from the “Big” mail order/internet dealers, but is right here in Bellingham. For our Canadian customers, we will even ship to Canada US Postal Service!
We are in the process of developing several classes and hope to have them on the calendar by Fall of this year. Check back for more detailed “How-To” info on our website at http://www.pouncingrain.com/ and here on our blog.
-Kathleen
Many of you have used the silver Precious Metal Clay (called PMC), or maybe recently the BRONZclay, but COPPRclay has just been released for sale, and we have it for you to play with. Our price is $19.98 for the 100 grams and $35.98 for the 200 grams. This is the same (or better) pricing you would get from the “Big” mail order/internet dealers, but is right here in Bellingham. For our Canadian customers, we will even ship to Canada US Postal Service!
We are in the process of developing several classes and hope to have them on the calendar by Fall of this year. Check back for more detailed “How-To” info on our website at http://www.pouncingrain.com/ and here on our blog.
-Kathleen
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Roeder Home Info
This information is from Karen Espland, one of Pouncing Rains Members:
This is the latest update from Flip re: Roeder Home. If you can spare even a couple hours a month or year--- Please call Rob & let him know. Yesterday was the first time since February the "OPEN" sign was turned for the public to come in. There was a spinners group (yarn spinning) there breathing life back into the home. It was fun to learn more about this art & craft. As this is being reorganized & in its infantcy stage, do you have a suggestion that will promote cultural arts in the Roeder Home? Let us know.I am trying to be well versed on the groups & events that occur at the Roeder Home. If you know of a group who would be interested in renting the facility - please mention it to them. Unfortunately, it was not advertised in the last 2 Whatcom County Leisure Guides and rentals may be down. There are several rooms that are rentable. There are small art rooms downstairs (jewelry, kiln & ???) There are 2 rates for rentals: Non-commercial & Commercial. It would be nice to see the arts programs continue there. Do you know anyone interested in teaching a class? The insurance issue has been addressed. Call Rob from the W.C. Parks Dept. at the number below for further information. It would be wonderful if you would pass this on. Thanks - Karen E.
This is the latest update from Flip re: Roeder Home. If you can spare even a couple hours a month or year--- Please call Rob & let him know. Yesterday was the first time since February the "OPEN" sign was turned for the public to come in. There was a spinners group (yarn spinning) there breathing life back into the home. It was fun to learn more about this art & craft. As this is being reorganized & in its infantcy stage, do you have a suggestion that will promote cultural arts in the Roeder Home? Let us know.I am trying to be well versed on the groups & events that occur at the Roeder Home. If you know of a group who would be interested in renting the facility - please mention it to them. Unfortunately, it was not advertised in the last 2 Whatcom County Leisure Guides and rentals may be down. There are several rooms that are rentable. There are small art rooms downstairs (jewelry, kiln & ???) There are 2 rates for rentals: Non-commercial & Commercial. It would be nice to see the arts programs continue there. Do you know anyone interested in teaching a class? The insurance issue has been addressed. Call Rob from the W.C. Parks Dept. at the number below for further information. It would be wonderful if you would pass this on. Thanks - Karen E.
Member's Social For July
Member Social Makes a Comeback. All current, former or future interested members join us for a member’s Social on Wednesday evening July 22nd from 6:00-8:00’ish. Bring your “show and tell” treasures, favorite summer treat to share , and join us for some social time. We will visit, problem solve and celebrate this wonderful creative passion we all have in common.
-Kathleen
-Kathleen
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Store Closed July 4th
The shop will be closed Saturday July 4th for our employees to celebrate the holiday.
News From The Shop
News from the Shop:
This month I am really excited (as always) to make my monthly announcement of new items in our shop.
We have been on the hunt for a while for new brass texture plates in different patterns and sizes, and we were finally successful! We have 6 new patterns in 4” and 8” strips with hopefully more to come! Texture sheets are used in multiple ways; add different patterns and dimension to your PMC pieces by rolling or pressing your metal clay onto the brass and lifting away revealing an exact pressing of the pattern; texture plates can also be roll printed against softer metals, copper or silver, in the rolling mill and used in rings, bracelets or whatever creation you come up with! The plates themselves can be cut up and used in your projects as well!
With the Flex Shaft Magic workshop coming up I though it would be appropriate to let you all know about the rotating bur organizer that we just got in, with 108 spots for your drill bits, cutting, setting, sanding and polishing burs. It turns around completely and is stepped for handy access to all your flex shaft accessories.
Hope to see you in the shop soon!
ryan@pouncingrain.com
www.pouncingrain.com
-Ryan
This month I am really excited (as always) to make my monthly announcement of new items in our shop.
We have been on the hunt for a while for new brass texture plates in different patterns and sizes, and we were finally successful! We have 6 new patterns in 4” and 8” strips with hopefully more to come! Texture sheets are used in multiple ways; add different patterns and dimension to your PMC pieces by rolling or pressing your metal clay onto the brass and lifting away revealing an exact pressing of the pattern; texture plates can also be roll printed against softer metals, copper or silver, in the rolling mill and used in rings, bracelets or whatever creation you come up with! The plates themselves can be cut up and used in your projects as well!
With the Flex Shaft Magic workshop coming up I though it would be appropriate to let you all know about the rotating bur organizer that we just got in, with 108 spots for your drill bits, cutting, setting, sanding and polishing burs. It turns around completely and is stepped for handy access to all your flex shaft accessories.
Hope to see you in the shop soon!
ryan@pouncingrain.com
www.pouncingrain.com
-Ryan
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Our Community Online
Our call-out to our customers and students with online presence got responses from some really fabulous folks with sites worth checking out! Wow, it is so inspiring to see so many creative people in our community putting themselves out in the wild world web. Many artists have links to their blogs or other websites as well. Interested in putting yourself out there? We will be giving our class, Marketing on Etsy, coming up again in the fall, check our class schedule out on www.pouncingrain.com. Another way to see find local artists online; go to www.etsy.com and click on the shop local button or go directly to www.etsy.com/shop_local.php?ref=fp_nav_local and type in your area, a fun way to support local businesses! We will also be posting this list and adding to it on our new blog, www.pouncingrain.blogspot.com If you want your site included in this list just contact me, ryan@pouncingrain.com
Sarah Williams, www.snowyowljewelry.etsy.com
Pat Rowe, www.patsysbeads.etsy.com
Jill Rockwell and Mary Lou Moffat, www.backyardbeadsvictoria.com
Jenn Baerg, www.allegrafire@etsy.com
Nanci LaHatt, www.designedkeepsakes.etsy.com
Lynn McGinnis, www.bluestoneoforcasisland.1000markets.com
Allie Ryser, http://www.glassallie.etsy.com or http://www.glassallie.artfire.com
Mieko Takashi, www.shizendesigns.etsy.com or www.shizendesignsbridal.etsy.com
Lois Dahl, www.Whimrab.etsy.com
Mel Kickland, www.MoonLitCreations.etsy.com or www.EarthenCreations.etsy.com
Kath Urbano, www.Myemmagrace.etsy.com
-Ryan
Sarah Williams, www.snowyowljewelry.etsy.com
Pat Rowe, www.patsysbeads.etsy.com
Jill Rockwell and Mary Lou Moffat, www.backyardbeadsvictoria.com
Jenn Baerg, www.allegrafire@etsy.com
Nanci LaHatt, www.designedkeepsakes.etsy.com
Lynn McGinnis, www.bluestoneoforcasisland.1000markets.com
Allie Ryser, http://www.glassallie.etsy.com or http://www.glassallie.artfire.com
Mieko Takashi, www.shizendesigns.etsy.com or www.shizendesignsbridal.etsy.com
Lois Dahl, www.Whimrab.etsy.com
Mel Kickland, www.MoonLitCreations.etsy.com or www.EarthenCreations.etsy.com
Kath Urbano, www.Myemmagrace.etsy.com
-Ryan
Cool Things From Tim McCreight
I was checking out the Brynmorgen Press website (Tim McCreight's publishing company) and found some cool free stuff. I really like the circle divider. Check it out. http://www.brynmorgen.com/resources.html
-Kathleen
-Kathleen
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Metal in Tacoma
4 Curators:
Contemporary Craft in Northwest Museums
cosponsored by Seattle Metals Guild and Tacoma Art Museum
August 23, 2009 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
1:00 - 3:00 - Panel discussion
3:00 - 5:00 - Docent tour
·4 informative presentations followed by a dynamic discussion with 4 Museum Curators. Each will outline the significance of contemporary craft within the collection of their museum and the role that craft plays in museum programming. The moderator will begin the discussion by posing several questions to the panel and will then open the floor to questions from the audience.
·A docent tour of 2 important contemporary jewelry exhibitions:
-Ornament as Art: Avant Garde Jewelry from the Helen Williams Drutt Collection
-Loud Bones: The Jewelry of Nancy Worden.
All for $15! Includes museum admission
($10 for members of TAM or Seattle Metals Guild)
Space is limited. Advance tickets are available by calling 253.722.2455
or Email - Education@tacomaartmuseum.org
Tacoma Art Museum
1701 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, Washington 98402
www.TacomaArtMuseum.org
Rock Hushka Tacoma Art Museum - Tacoma, WA
Stefano Catalani Bellevue Arts Museum - Bellevue, WA
Kathleen Moles Museum of Northwest Art - La Conner, WA
Namita Wiggers Museum of Contemporary Craft - Portland, OR
Why should I bother to go to a panel of museum curators? My work will never be in a museum… Well, maybe, but several regional museums have made a commitment to exhibiting craft, especially jewelry and metal objects, and some are even beginning to assemble collections. Your brooch, neckpiece, or Kiddush cup might just one day be found on display in one of these museums. And, even if your work never finds its way into those hallowed halls, aren’t you curious about what they are collecting, how they make their decisions or how they acquire work? Or even how they care for all that work?
Here is the opportunity to not only be in the room with the curators from four of the five major museums in the area but to ask them questions as well. This is a unique event and a unique window into four unique points of view.
So don’t miss it!
And while you are in Tacoma, be sure to check out: Metal-Urge - Beginning on June 6 and continuing through September 20, the Tacoma Arts Commission is presenting a city-wide celebration of the metal arts. This community event includes 23 venues and features more than 100 artists. For additional information, please visit http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=11969.
Contemporary Craft in Northwest Museums
cosponsored by Seattle Metals Guild and Tacoma Art Museum
August 23, 2009 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
1:00 - 3:00 - Panel discussion
3:00 - 5:00 - Docent tour
·4 informative presentations followed by a dynamic discussion with 4 Museum Curators. Each will outline the significance of contemporary craft within the collection of their museum and the role that craft plays in museum programming. The moderator will begin the discussion by posing several questions to the panel and will then open the floor to questions from the audience.
·A docent tour of 2 important contemporary jewelry exhibitions:
-Ornament as Art: Avant Garde Jewelry from the Helen Williams Drutt Collection
-Loud Bones: The Jewelry of Nancy Worden.
All for $15! Includes museum admission
($10 for members of TAM or Seattle Metals Guild)
Space is limited. Advance tickets are available by calling 253.722.2455
or Email - Education@tacomaartmuseum.org
Tacoma Art Museum
1701 Pacific Avenue
Tacoma, Washington 98402
www.TacomaArtMuseum.org
Rock Hushka Tacoma Art Museum - Tacoma, WA
Stefano Catalani Bellevue Arts Museum - Bellevue, WA
Kathleen Moles Museum of Northwest Art - La Conner, WA
Namita Wiggers Museum of Contemporary Craft - Portland, OR
Why should I bother to go to a panel of museum curators? My work will never be in a museum… Well, maybe, but several regional museums have made a commitment to exhibiting craft, especially jewelry and metal objects, and some are even beginning to assemble collections. Your brooch, neckpiece, or Kiddush cup might just one day be found on display in one of these museums. And, even if your work never finds its way into those hallowed halls, aren’t you curious about what they are collecting, how they make their decisions or how they acquire work? Or even how they care for all that work?
Here is the opportunity to not only be in the room with the curators from four of the five major museums in the area but to ask them questions as well. This is a unique event and a unique window into four unique points of view.
So don’t miss it!
And while you are in Tacoma, be sure to check out: Metal-Urge - Beginning on June 6 and continuing through September 20, the Tacoma Arts Commission is presenting a city-wide celebration of the metal arts. This community event includes 23 venues and features more than 100 artists. For additional information, please visit http://www.cityoftacoma.org/Page.aspx?hid=11969.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
T-Shirt Design Contest
CONTEST! We will be printing Pouncing Rain T-Shirts this coming Fall to sell and use for prizes. Instead of using tired-old average advertising art, we want the T-Shirts to be fun, creative and funky (whatever that means!) So, we are having a contest. Submit your “Pouncing Rain Metal Jewelry and Metals Center” T-Shirt Art to us by August 31, 2009. We will choose a winner by September 7, 2009 and feature the art on our Pouncing Rain T-Shirts as well as on our Blog, website and in our October Newsletter. The prize!!! We will be giving away a Year of Unlimited Open Studio, or a Free Class/Workshop (excluding Silversmith Camp). Additional Info and entry form available on our website. www.pouncingrain.com
Day 2 of Silversmith Camp
Today is Day 2 of the 5 day "Silversmith Summer Camp". The studio is alive with the tink, tink,tink of hammers on metal. It is a sound that makes me happy... to me it sounds almost like laughter. The weird wonderful world I live in anyway.
-Kathleen
-Kathleen
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Pouncing Rain Starts to Blog
We (Kathleen, Ryan, Nanz, Nancy) have decided to start a blog to keep our customers, members and fans updated with the going-ons at Pouncing Rain. We will post tips, tricks, pictures, and all manner of fun stuff. So this is our first post.
The June "Silversmith Summer Camp" starts tomorrow! We will have the store open tomorrow as well, even though is is not one of our normally "open days". Stop by and say hello!
Members! Ryan is having evening "Open Studio" Tuesday Eve, June 16th. Come and work and keep her company.
Be sure to visit our website: www.pouncingrain.com
-Kathleen
The June "Silversmith Summer Camp" starts tomorrow! We will have the store open tomorrow as well, even though is is not one of our normally "open days". Stop by and say hello!
Members! Ryan is having evening "Open Studio" Tuesday Eve, June 16th. Come and work and keep her company.
Be sure to visit our website: www.pouncingrain.com
-Kathleen
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