I thought I’d let you have a sneak peek into my studio today, and share the process behind my popular ‘name’ necklaces.

I’ve just made a ‘mom’ or ‘mum’ one in preparation for Mother’s Day… so here’s how it’s done

1. Draw the Design

I begin by drawing my design in pencil. This is really important, as I need to work out how to make the whole word in one fluid stroke – the wire I use is continuous, so that is how I need to make the word. It can be very tricky at times – some letters are very hard to make cursive!

2. Make a Brass Prototype

As sterling wire is expensive, I don’t want to make the name and stuff it up! So, I first do a prototype in brass to make sure I’ve got all the curves and connections worked out. I’ll often re-work something at this stage if it just doesn’t look right in the metal.

3. Make a Sterling Version

When I’m satisfied that I have it completely right,  I’ll make the necklace out of half-hard sterling silver 1mm wire. I need to use the half-hard wire rather than soft, because it gives much more crisp lines, and holds it’s shape wonderfully.

4. Hammer for Strength

Once it’s made, I’ll hammer it with a nylon hammer gently to straighten and flatten it out without marking the sterling. I then also add the chain and make and add the handmade clasp.

5. Photograph

This is often a very long process! Taking huge numbers of photos to get just the right ones. I then edit the photos and make sure they represent the necklace really well. If I’m making a custom name, I always try to remember to take photos for my portfolio.

And that’s it! Ready to go to a new home 🙂

My ‘Mom’ or ‘Mum’ necklace is now up in my Etsy and MadeIt stores – if you’d like to get one for your mum be sure to order early so it gets to you in time for Mother’s Day.

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P.S. The winner of the SquishyBee Giveaway is Clare – well done!

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