Firstly... love your hair... Secondly, thanks for such a great explanation! I love that you have held the pieces in place with enamel. That makes so much sense. I am just about to take my first class in enameling and you have really inspired me, thanks again.
You all probably dont give a damn but does anyone know of a way to get back into an Instagram account..? I somehow lost the account password. I would appreciate any assistance you can offer me
@Jeremiah Cayden thanks for your reply. I got to the site thru google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now. Seems to take quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.
Your work is so intricate and elaborate. As a fellow artist and university art student, I would have to say that I don't think you charge enough for your pieces. I mean that completely as a complement to your work. But, the amount of time, energy, and pure skill you put into your pieces is--in my less than humble opinion--worth more than you charge. Stunning work. As a Sculpture, Ceramic, and Mixed Media artist, I find your work inspiring. Bravo! Be well and Peace Out.
do you think that once you have your wire placed how you want it would it be possible to then put another piece of tape on top, then put your blue over all the base of the peice and by turning the wire over remove the underneath tape which would allow it to stay in place, place wire into the blue once dried it might be possible to then remove the top tape?
My First Thought Was, Can You Make The Image Mirrored On The Tape Then Flip The Image Right Over With Tape Holding Everything In Place? Thanks And God Bless.
A common suggestion, but I've found that although it sounds good on paper (or tape as the case may be), it's not a good method. Although you are welcome to give it a try! :)
Toward the ending, you are firing with the pieces in place, it says the enamel melted... does that mean that you enameled with clear before placing the pieces down using Blu-Stic adhesive? or, did you add enamel after letting the piece dry overnight? Thank You Sandra.
Both are correct! I did put a layer of enamel down first, then laid in my wires using Blu-stic and then sifted a little more enamel over the whole thing and let it dry overnight before firing. ;)
So I have a question, would you be able to just paint the blu stic on the whole surface where you are placing the wires. And then you would be able to pick up the wire image flip it like a pancake and place it? And when the glue is set take the tape off and begin placing the enamel?
As always your work and teaching method is excellent, and it's so kind of you to answer so many of your followers questions. Mine is, what kind of enamel do you apply (or recommend) on the front of the piece before laying the wire? Preferable something that doesn't yellow like 2020. Thanks again Sandra!
If you want to avoid using the clears as a base, look into some very pale shades of blue. A thin (extra thin!) coat of pale blue can look "whiter" than any regular clear and is a good base for most colors. Good luck! If you'd like more content, check out my vimeo page: vimeo.com/ondemand/sandramcewen/
If you had done a mirror image of your design, could you have glued the top surface of your wire design and flipped the whole thing onto you backing? After it dried, you could then peel the taped paper off. Just curious. I have never done cloisonne, but it just seems like there could be a quicker way.
Hi Sandra, You inspired me to try silver because I think the colors are so much more "jewel" like. My question is after I anneal and "dap" my piece how do I get back to a high polish? And a work hardened piece? Also do you anneal an clean your wire? I've seen others mention finger oil contamination on the piece but not the wire. I touched the heck outta my wires to get them bent,lol. Thank you so much in advance for all of your generosity in helping all of us fledgeling enamellers
I don't anneal my bases- there's really no need to. If you get good enough at fusing, you can "flash" the surface of the fine silver and it'll be super shiny. Don't anneal your wires either- it makes them too soft. And don't worry about cleaning your wires either- I've never had any problems. Any oils will be burned off in the first firing.
Great video! Do you have a video to prepare a piece before you start putting wire on it? I am sure that is very important part of the whole process. Thank you!
I'm such a pest, but so intrigued by the process, I have to ask: Are you just 'eyeballing' the placement when you transfer the items from the holding place over onto the Cloisonné surface? I would think it would be helpful to have some type of 'sketch' on the surface as a guide... of course, not possible really. I would like your feedback on this part... transferring the pieces and getting them in the exact right place... is there a special technique for this?
Can you talk about your Optic device? Name of the brand and model that you use? I can see "ZM" on the label but nothing else.I like to work on Copper Pennies and am looking for a good Optic device.
I use regular prescription reading glasses set to 5" for regular use, and a jewelry microscope for fine work- www.riogrande.com/product/meiji-emz-5-microscope/113937 Thanks!
Hi Sandra ! I am new to your site ..so you have probably already addressed this question ..The silver base ..made using silver clay? ..if so which brand do you recommend? If not done this way, How was it executed?
Hi William! I don't use silver clay- I fabricate my bases by sawing and fusing fine silver sheet. If you want more in depth tutorials about my process, you can subscribe to my Vimeo channel: vimeo.com/ondemand/sandramcewen/ Good Luck! :)
I have to ask your work is sooo beautiful!!!! Can I ask, what kind of wire do you use, what size and where do you purchase the wire? I'm definitely going to check out your Esty page:)
Thanks! I make my own wires, but you can purchase wire from Enamel Art Supply. I'd get a little of all the sizes and see what you like: www.enamelartsupply.com/
i am following your videos, quite professional , i would like know how to create base , which you engrave , what are tools been used, any tutorial on that work.
I have more detailed tutorials available on my Vimeo page: vimeo.com/ondemand/sandramcewen/ It's a $5 monthly subscription , and I am adding new content every month! :)
Perhaps my ignorance is bliss, as they say, but could you not place a piece of sign makers transfer tape over your already assembled wire work and position it all at once? Start by pressing transfer tape on top of your wire design and use it to lift the wire design away from your bottom tape base. Spread your blue glue over the mounting base. Then lift your tape covered wire assembly and press it into position on the blue glue. Gently peel away the transfer tape at a low angle. The same procedure as a sign maker follows to adhere vinyl lettering in exact position on a sign base without having to play with every letter individually. There are several different adhesive strengths for transfer tape, I would start with low tack. As I say maybe my lack of experience in enameling is showing but I think it should work.
Interesting idea! You should totally give it a try- I'm not sure the glue would be strong enough to pull the wires off the transfer tape, but it would be worth checking into. ;)
Dear Sandra, thanks for making this video. you mentioned "dry pointing." This is a technique I'd love to learn more about. Would you mind pointing me to a video or other materials about it? Thanks
Hi Allen- I don't have a video about it yet, but it's a very basic printmaking technique... Basically, I just use a sharp scribe to draw lines on the soft silver.
It adds so much beauty to your pieces. From the video, the marks appear very deep. Can you recommend any particular scribe? Can't wait to see the video! Allen
Hi again. I only use enamels on copper and have no experience with silver. I researched 'dry pointing' on silver on UA-cam and only got tuck pointing. Any suggestions to locate a video on this subject matter would be appreciated.
Hi Sandra! Could you please share how you accurately transfer your detailed drawing onto the silver background before starting your dry pointing/scribe work? Also, what brand of double stick tape do you use? My tape is so sticky that my wires deform when I try to lift them. Many thanks!
Hi Elizabeth! I just use regular scotch tape- www.amazon.com/Scotch-136-Double-Stick-Tape/dp/B009R5YAFK/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1517249385&sr=8-12&keywords=scotch+double+stick+tape If you find it's too sticky, you can unstickify it a little bit by just touching it with your fingers- the oils in your hands will make the tape less sticky. There are a bunch of ways to transfer you design- the easiest is to use some transfer paper to trace the design directly onto your piece. Good luck! :)
You can get a tool called “ Sticky End tool” and it’s used for placing flat~backed 💎 ~ it has a teardrop sticky tip and is available on Amazon at very good price!
Hi. I am really love your video. So amazing. Can you help me? Can i use glass frit powder for making enamel on jewelry silver. Here is link of powder: www.warm-glass.co.uk/deep-cobalt-blue-opal-powder-frit-014708-p-1632.html?cPath=98_160
You have the best cloisonné tutorials on UA-cam I think. Thank you.
Firstly... love your hair... Secondly, thanks for such a great explanation! I love that you have held the pieces in place with enamel. That makes so much sense. I am just about to take my first class in enameling and you have really inspired me, thanks again.
You all probably dont give a damn but does anyone know of a way to get back into an Instagram account..?
I somehow lost the account password. I would appreciate any assistance you can offer me
@Nash Elian instablaster =)
@Jeremiah Cayden thanks for your reply. I got to the site thru google and Im waiting for the hacking stuff now.
Seems to take quite some time so I will reply here later with my results.
I enjoy cloisonné. In fact I can’t get enough of it in the form of lamps vases and large charger plates. I’m fascinated by your video here.
Your work is so intricate and elaborate. As a fellow artist and university art student, I would have to say that I don't think you charge enough for your pieces. I mean that completely as a complement to your work. But, the amount of time, energy, and pure skill you put into your pieces is--in my less than humble opinion--worth more than you charge. Stunning work. As a Sculpture, Ceramic, and Mixed Media artist, I find your work inspiring. Bravo! Be well and Peace Out.
Beautiful! I also checked out your website. Thought enamel jewelry to be long lost but it was nice to admire all your pieces.
do you think that once you have your wire placed how you want it would it be possible to then put another piece of tape on top, then put your blue over all the base of the peice and by turning the wire over remove the underneath tape which would allow it to stay in place, place wire into the blue once dried it might be possible to then remove the top tape?
My First Thought Was,
Can You Make The Image Mirrored On The Tape Then Flip The Image Right Over With Tape Holding Everything In Place?
Thanks And God Bless.
A common suggestion, but I've found that although it sounds good on paper (or tape as the case may be), it's not a good method. Although you are welcome to give it a try! :)
Thank you for another interesting tutorial. I’m always inspired by your work and amazed at the intricacy of your designs.
Toward the ending, you are firing with the pieces in place, it says the enamel melted... does that mean that you enameled with clear before placing the pieces down using Blu-Stic adhesive? or, did you add enamel after letting the piece dry overnight? Thank You Sandra.
Both are correct! I did put a layer of enamel down first, then laid in my wires using Blu-stic and then sifted a little more enamel over the whole thing and let it dry overnight before firing. ;)
So I have a question, would you be able to just paint the blu stic on the whole surface where you are placing the wires. And then you would be able to pick up the wire image flip it like a pancake and place it? And when the glue is set take the tape off and begin placing the enamel?
You should try it and let me know how it goes! :)
I like the idea !!!
As always your work and teaching method is excellent, and it's so kind of you to answer so many of your followers questions. Mine is, what kind of enamel do you apply (or recommend) on the front of the piece before laying the wire? Preferable something that doesn't yellow like 2020. Thanks again Sandra!
If you want to avoid using the clears as a base, look into some very pale shades of blue. A thin (extra thin!) coat of pale blue can look "whiter" than any regular clear and is a good base for most colors. Good luck! If you'd like more content, check out my vimeo page: vimeo.com/ondemand/sandramcewen/
If you had done a mirror image of your design, could you have glued the top surface of your wire design and flipped the whole thing onto you backing? After it dried, you could then peel the taped paper off. Just curious. I have never done cloisonne, but it just seems like there could be a quicker way.
Yes, a lot of people who have never done Cloisonné make that comment. :)
What type of glue do u use will it work on a phone case?? Also what type of paint can u use for it? As some can be painted
Hi Sandra, You inspired me to try silver because I think the colors are so much more "jewel" like. My question is after I anneal and "dap" my piece how do I get back to a high polish? And a work hardened piece? Also do you anneal an clean your wire? I've seen others mention finger oil contamination on the piece but not the wire. I touched the heck outta my wires to get them bent,lol. Thank you so much in advance for all of your generosity in helping all of us fledgeling enamellers
I don't anneal my bases- there's really no need to. If you get good enough at fusing, you can "flash" the surface of the fine silver and it'll be super shiny. Don't anneal your wires either- it makes them too soft. And don't worry about cleaning your wires either- I've never had any problems. Any oils will be burned off in the first firing.
Sandra McEwen Thank you, thank you! You're the best!
really love your work and video! In Russia, there is little information about modern enamel techniques and materials.
Thanks so much! :)
Great video! Do you have a video to prepare a piece before you start putting wire on it? I am sure that is very important part of the whole process. Thank you!
I've got several fusing videos that show how to make the base, but at the moment, don't have the full process. I will put it on the to-do list! :)
Thank you! Looking forward to it! Enjoy all your video!
I'm such a pest, but so intrigued by the process, I have to ask: Are you just 'eyeballing' the placement when you transfer the items from the holding place over onto the Cloisonné surface? I would think it would be helpful to have some type of 'sketch' on the surface as a guide... of course, not possible really. I would like your feedback on this part... transferring the pieces and getting them in the exact right place... is there a special technique for this?
Hi Sandra! your videos are really well done - you are a natural and thank you for sharing...what strength is your MEIJI?
Hi Paulette- It has a magnification range of 3.5X-22.5X ;)
What happens to the glue, is it visible or do you cook it in.
Hi Harriett! The glue burns away in the kiln and the wires will stick to the glass foundation... :)
Can you talk about your Optic device? Name of the brand and model that you use? I can see "ZM" on the label but nothing else.I like to work on Copper Pennies and am looking for a good Optic device.
I use regular prescription reading glasses set to 5" for regular use, and a jewelry microscope for fine work- www.riogrande.com/product/meiji-emz-5-microscope/113937
Thanks!
Hi Sandra ! I am new to your site ..so you have probably already addressed this question ..The silver base ..made using silver clay? ..if so which brand do you recommend? If not done this way, How was it executed?
Hi William!
I don't use silver clay- I fabricate my bases by sawing and fusing fine silver sheet. If you want more in depth tutorials about my process, you can subscribe to my Vimeo channel: vimeo.com/ondemand/sandramcewen/
Good Luck! :)
Sandra, Do you depletion gild / surface enrichment on your fine silver backing? If ao can you explain how?
Hi Steve- no need to depletion gild, because the base is fine silver, not sterling...
I have to ask your work is sooo beautiful!!!! Can I ask, what kind of wire do you use, what size and where do you purchase the wire? I'm definitely going to check out your Esty page:)
Thanks! I make my own wires, but you can purchase wire from Enamel Art Supply. I'd get a little of all the sizes and see what you like: www.enamelartsupply.com/
i am following your videos, quite professional , i would like know how to create base , which you engrave , what are tools been used, any tutorial on that work.
I have more detailed tutorials available on my Vimeo page: vimeo.com/ondemand/sandramcewen/
It's a $5 monthly subscription , and I am adding new content every month! :)
Thanks for teaching
Sandra, would your techniques work on fused glass?
Hi Anna! Not quite sure what you are asking, but you won't get good results trying to use regular enamels over fused glass.
Perhaps my ignorance is bliss, as they say, but could you not place a piece of sign makers transfer tape over your already assembled wire work and position it all at once?
Start by pressing transfer tape on top of your wire design and use it to lift the wire design away from your bottom tape base.
Spread your blue glue over the mounting base.
Then lift your tape covered wire assembly and press it into position on the blue glue.
Gently peel away the transfer tape at a low angle.
The same procedure as a sign maker follows to adhere vinyl lettering in exact position on a sign base without having to play with every letter individually. There are several different adhesive strengths for transfer tape, I would start with low tack. As I say maybe my lack of experience in enameling is showing but I think it should work.
Interesting idea! You should totally give it a try- I'm not sure the glue would be strong enough to pull the wires off the transfer tape, but it would be worth checking into. ;)
Dear Sandra, thanks for making this video. you mentioned "dry pointing." This is a technique I'd love to learn more about. Would you mind pointing me to a video or other materials about it? Thanks
Hi Allen- I don't have a video about it yet, but it's a very basic printmaking technique... Basically, I just use a sharp scribe to draw lines on the soft silver.
It adds so much beauty to your pieces. From the video, the marks appear very deep. Can you recommend any particular scribe? Can't wait to see the video! Allen
This is the one I use: www.amazon.com/Starrett-70A-Scriber-Hardened-Diameter/dp/B000E60N84
Great. thanks.!
Hi again. I only use enamels on copper and have no experience with silver. I researched 'dry pointing' on silver on UA-cam and only got tuck pointing. Any suggestions to locate a video on this subject matter would be appreciated.
Hi Sandra! Could you please share how you accurately transfer your detailed drawing onto the silver background before starting your dry pointing/scribe work? Also, what brand of double stick tape do you use? My tape is so sticky that my wires deform when I try to lift them. Many thanks!
Hi Elizabeth! I just use regular scotch tape- www.amazon.com/Scotch-136-Double-Stick-Tape/dp/B009R5YAFK/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1517249385&sr=8-12&keywords=scotch+double+stick+tape
If you find it's too sticky, you can unstickify it a little bit by just touching it with your fingers- the oils in your hands will make the tape less sticky.
There are a bunch of ways to transfer you design- the easiest is to use some transfer paper to trace the design directly onto your piece.
Good luck! :)
Thank you Sandra!
like the way you steady the right hand with the left one
Makes a tripod! ;)
brent harrison, I was wondering the exact same thing! Anybody out there try it yet? Ive got the tape but no cloisonne wires.
How do I remove excess glue from the Gold
The glue will burn off in the kiln... :)
Magnificent
WWOOOWW AMAZING WORK ART LIFE! HOPE meet you and be your friend and your student,... Excellent work i been in your web site wow
You are awesome!!
Thanks! I teach workshops- you should come to Raleigh and take one! www.sandramcewen.com/learn
Thank you.
Wow !!!
❤
You can get a tool called “ Sticky End tool” and it’s used for placing flat~backed 💎 ~ it has a teardrop sticky tip and is available on Amazon at very good price!
I often use a bit of bee's wax on a toothpick.
Wow
Thanks! :)
No sound?
Maybe try unmuting it. :P
Where did u̶̲̥̅̊ get u̶̲̥̅̊r scribes pls
Hi. I am really love your video. So amazing. Can you help me? Can i use glass frit powder for making enamel on jewelry silver. Here is link of powder: www.warm-glass.co.uk/deep-cobalt-blue-opal-powder-frit-014708-p-1632.html?cPath=98_160
Thank you.