Answering your questions! There was lots, so I'm sorry if I haven't answered yours, but I'll do my best to answer in the comment! ⭐️ Videos that vere mentioned: - Sourcing gemstones series: ua-cam.com/video/R8YF8tWbo-I/v-deo.html - What books to get to start learning: ua-cam.com/video/3h8eId4i7eQ/v-deo.html - Megam Collins video about pricing + excel: ua-cam.com/video/mGjohjvAtEw/v-deo.html ⭐️ Enjoyed this video? Why not check out similar ones! - Getting first customers, jewelry business struggles: ua-cam.com/video/n7jSuRCPPAI/v-deo.html - How to open and organize online shop, getting out of the slump, will I have children: ua-cam.com/video/d6N4371vIME/v-deo.html - How to grow jewelry business? Finding own style, becoming a jeweler, how to start selling: ua-cam.com/video/JEDxIucoZss/v-deo.html
“Your imagination is endless” love it. I really felt this way looking at crystal copper jewelry but Once I got out of my head and started using my hands and just feeling the flow I started to feel the magic of creating.
Re the first question, i think it’s also important to remember than when you are new to jewellery making you are, first and foremost, working on developing your skills and techniques. A lot of the time this requires you to re-create things that exist for the sake of practicing those specific techniques, which can make you feel like you have nothing to offer and nothing new to bring to the table as those things have been done by others. However, once you have those skills down, you will 1) be able to combine them to create things that are your ideas, and 2) you will feel more free in designing things that are more unique because your technical skills will already be in place. Also, if you look at insta, so many super successful (and high-end) jewellers have some similarities between them - it’s nothing to worry about 😊
Using work in the public domain, copyright-free is good. Learning the skills is where it has to start, if you never learn to saw, file, polish etc your work will always be less than you want. I want your work to be the best it can be so I can copy, NO, oops, sorry, admire, and learn how you made it to increase my skill level. It's easy to get it wrong, but if you want to be one of the greats, they design out of their own brain within their skill level. I have trouble designing new work, but I do come up with some and playing with it, other designs come too. The lack of new designs from my poor old brain does not give me the right to copy your work, in any way. Some of our free content teachers like Basia and Megan Collins show us something they have designed or is out of copyright and say make this, now do this bit like this and that bit... Not just telling us to use what may be their design, and a possible moneymaker, but telling/showing us how. A complex problem and a lot of lawyers make a lot of money from trying to sort it out. NO! Just do not copy other peoples work! Stay safe, Steve...
@@stephencoster9532 looking at how, for example, a fishtail pave setting is done so you could do it yourself is not the same as copying someone else’s design 😉
Yes, I agree with you! Of course it's not the general design we're talking about, but rather intricate ones that are so clearly a product of someone else's imagination, very distinctive and very "them". We have no business repeating that, because it doesn't make sense. Instead, we should apply the techniques and skills and use that to create our own vision 😍 But when it comes to specific designs like stacking rings, statement gemstone rings that are framed by leaves, dangle earrings or gemstone pendants - that will always have some similarities, because there's only so many ways to go about it :) The difference will be in details - the shape of the leaf (especially if someone draws it first and then cuts it out) or a certain solution for the bail. However, we should never worry too much and stress over it. Because as long as we are not intentionally copying an item 1:1, it will always turn out different, coming from underneath our hands 😀 As for the high end brands - absolutely, they will always look very similar, because they are based on classic and popular designs and forms.
@@alisa.maks26 exactly, using a style or technique is how we learn, and we all need to learn. That is not copying but using the same or similar technique, and that is good. As Basia says it is when someone takes what is yours and says, 'Look what I've designed and made,' that is when it is wrong. If apart from some very minor differences in the bail it could be someone else's work, something, that has been made before yours. That is when lawyers often get involved and start earning a lot of money. If I make something from out my own head, that is not a copy, that is wonderful. If I change one or two very minor details from something from out of your head, make it and sell it, that to me is theft. I'm not a good or prolific designer, but I can do it, and do. I will never paint the MonaLisa or even close, but if I paint the girl next door and everybody, okay two or three people like it, then that is okay. Even if she had the same pose, I believe that is okay as it's a totally different piece of work, but if I just change her eye colour??? Stay safe, Steve...
Thanks for answering my questions! After asking, I found a couple videos of yours going over stone sourcing! ..and then went down a rabbit hole of all your videos! Metalsmithing can seem like a closed door for people wanting to entering the scene, but you are so inviting and inclusive in the way you teach and share tips. Thank you so much for everything!
My pleasure, Elsa! ❤️ I know the subject of sourcing gems and other materials can be intimidating and I remember how I struggled in the beginning. I'm happy to share what I can to make it at least a bit easier for others 🥰 And to be honest, it does seem like it's hard to get inside for those who never tried it before indeed. But once you start learning bit by bit, it really becomes easier! Lots of things can be figured out and the resources out there are growing each day 😍 I'm glad my videos are helpful. Hope you guys are well under all that snow on the other side of the World! Hope you're staying warm, take care! ❤️
I liked your answer to someone's question whether there is anything new to produce especially of the huge production that may be similar to what we have in mind
Thank you so much for the shout-out! As Basia said, feel free to download the pricing spreadsheet for free on my website☺️ And yes we are planning something special together for you all! 😉
Thank you Megan for putting up the spreadsheet, and for free! I'm looking forward to your work with Basia, judging by the high standard you both show a co-production will be something very special indeed, can you go higher than you already do? I'm thrilled that two such W very talented designers/goldsmiths should get together to help us, your work individually is wonderful, very much 'art jewellery', you could get a well-deserved paycheck for what you both give us for free. Your going Patreon could help with this, I said 'well deserved' and mean it. Living in different countries could be a right pain to sort, but us joining both patreons may be an answer. The 'Membership' set-up on YT has problems, another jeweller I follow Chris, the 'DiamondFitter' worked for over 20 years in London making high-end fittings for the very rich and famous. He now lives in Japan with his family teaching on YT, with the most informative videos being only on YT. Worth a look? Stay safe, Steve...
@@stephencoster9532 Thanks for your very kind words Steve! We are excited to make something together for you! And thank you so much for suggesting I set up my Patreon. I have set it up now and will be announcing it in tomorrow's video. ;) Thanks again for your kind words. Wishing you a lovely weekend and see you in tomorrow's video 😉 Stay safe, Megan
@@megan.collinsgood, you deserve any help we can give you. The more you (2) grow, the more opportunity for us to learn and grow too, and I truly believe that this industry needs all the new blood it can get, with new ideas always coming in allowing anybody to adorn themselves with any style, always allowing people to dress in the mode they feel at that time. While I and people like me can only give a small amount, it adds up to help you do what you need. It can allow you to budget growth and even time off! It is a way of saying thank you for all you give us, and you give us a great deal, of information, inspiration, insight and you feed our hunger to learn in a good way, saving us time and money! Your generosity deserves a thank you, and this is one way. So stay safe, Steve...
Thank so much for your answer to the first question, when you think about new trends that evolve in fashion and even old trends that return it really helps you realise that people are contributing to that by being slightly original or different in their own ways. I'm launching my jewellery business soon and this was also something on my mind, but your answer makes me feel better!
Exactly! It's all about the evolution. Of course it's extremely hard to create something completely new and unseen. What makes it unique is our own input, our own vision and how we arrange the elements. How we bring the idea to life. Because when you look at it from this point of view, there's endless possibilities. Placements of elements, textures, shapes, technical aspects of certain construction choices and more! And sometimes something is born this way, that really looks like a brand new idea! :) There is a maker, Azetama on Instagram. She's recently created several miniatures, including tiny kalimba, all out of silver. She hasn't invented miniatures of course. But I've never seen a silver miniature kalimba before, and not the way she made it! The way she decorated it and the whole style was 100% hers. Just incredible :)
Thank you Kim 🙏 And I;m happy you agree, it may be a sensitive subject, but I do believe that the rules are quite simple and it's easy not to cross the line if we stay mindful
Hi Basia, I have a question for you. I've been wondering about this for a while: when one is finished with their pickle (exhausted, need new) we are supposed to neutralize it with baking soda before disposing of it, right? So, that tells me that baking soda neutralizes pickle. Which leads me to this: if we put baking soda in our quench bowl and quench before pickling (as we are trained to do), isn't each quench to pickle dip/soak introducing baking soda into our pickle, thus ultimately neutralizing the exact effect we need to have the acid remove oxidation? I wonder if a water quench, then pickle, THEN, a separate baking soda rinse would be more appropriate and chemically "correct" for this application. I wonder what you think. Hopefully, this is a good question for your Q & A's. I so appreciate you and the time you take to share your fabulous fun and brilliant self - and of course, your gorgeous work.
I don't talk to you so much but in this instance you are absolutely correct. The possibility's are endless there will always be room for the next artist with a imagination.
(Malzaki, my thoughts. x) Art inspires, it's meant to. Don't be afraid to copy, after all that's how the masters learnt. When you become more confident you will naturally express your own ideas. I'm loving your channel Stardust. x
Of course, copying as a way of learning and keeping it in private is absolutely fine! However I don't encourage copying and then sharing or selling that work, as this isn't alright, we should always respect other people's work and never copy. We are capable of coming up with incredible, unique ideas, even if it takes a little while ❤️
Sorry for the 'Thumbs down', Jim but I believe copying is never good. You can make the elements, just never put them together, that way you will never be tempted. I've known a few people who were copied, and it hurt them both in mind and purse! Never mind how you think of it, please never copy! Stay safe, Steve...
Great video Basia😍 You are a very inspiring person. I started with your tutorials and learned a lot, you are a great teacher that explaining everything very well. Thanks 🙏🏻🌷for sharing your knowledge. Good Luck 🍀for your future projects!🧚🏻
I have watched the majority of your videos, I'm just starting out in jewellery making(currently still gathering tools) I love the topics you talk about and I have learned a lot from you so thank-you, my only issue is how you tell people not to copy and steal other people's work.... i look at a lot of things for inspiration so what is the difference? Those spoon rings I have seen one person in particular on tiktok make, is this not considered stealing/copying? I'm not meaning any harm by my question I'm just genuinely curious so I don't upset anyone, thanks in advance ✌🏻❤
I'm so happy you're finding value in my videos! I hope they will be helpful on your jewelry making journey, the beginning stage is very exciting! 🥰 To answer your question. I completely understand why you might feel confused, but it's actually very simple, I'll try to explain as best as I can. When someone makes spoon rings, they are transforming an already existing item and adapting the design. The spoon hasn't been created by them. If, however, you started from scratch by making a spoon in a specific design that's your own, added blue gems, added particular details and then turned that into a ring, that would make it your own. A person, that repeats the entire process, uses the same design, same gems, same elements and repeats it 1:1 and then makes a spoon is copying and stealing your idea and your design (your IP - intellectual property). Another example. Many people use fish in their work. Different types of fish, including Koi. And of course that is not copying. You can make a pendant with koi, sun and flowers and I can I make it too. Copying happens when one of us made it first and other person took that design and recreated it. Even if you changed silver to brass, red gem to blue gem, but everything else is identical, that's still a copy. Copy is when a design + style + placements of elements is replicated. That also relates to other art forms. I can't go onto pinterest, find a tattoo design and make it in silver (exactly the same) and call it my own. It's not. Someone else drew that concept, not me. So despite making it in a new medium, it was still a copy. For example my Hogwarts castle in one of the recent videos. I found the vector drawing online, followed the link and got it from Adobe stock. I got it with a free trial, but you can also buy it if there is no trial. If I just downloaded that drawing and turned it into a jewelery piece, that would be a copy and stealing. By purchasing the drawing this artist was paid and the licence allows me to reproduce their work. I also created manta ray design for my little pendants. Of course, everyone can use manta in their work. But trust me, you can absolutely tell when someone copied your work, when every single detail is exactly the same as in my design. It's the placement of elements, placement of stamping, shaoe of the gem and we it's placed and overall personal style that make the design unique. By reproducing a design we are essentially copying. And that is a very bad practice, especially for beginner makers who want to pass a design as their own. It's really worth the time to experiment and practice designs to create own style ❤️ And it's not very difficult. Which stones are you drawn to the most? Use those. Do you love any elements in particular? Draw them in your style and experiment with placements. I have tons of photos saved on my IG from other makers. I use them for inspo too: which technique should I try next? Here someone is using thick bezel and it looks awesome, I should try it too. Omg, they added gold! I need to combine gold and silver too. So it's more about the possibilities and techniques, rather than a particular design this person made. I will try a technique but in my own design, like Koi fish for example. Or layering of metal, so many jewellers do it, but they all translate it to their own style and design. I hope this makes sense ❤️ I'm happy to talk about it some more in future videos 🙏❤️ Don't worry. Inspiration is ok. You will know if you are about to copy someone, it won't happen by accident ❤️ And it's ok to start with simple designs and gradually discover your favourites. I don't know what type of jewellery you want to make, statement or minimal, but if you absolutely can't draw, there are stocks out there with beautiful vector drawings for cheap, and you can use it as a design for your jewellery 😀
I didn't expect such an in depth reply but I'm grateful you took the time to explain, a video about it would be a great topic, I'm sure people would appreciate the information, again thank you 😊
Hiya Lady Stardust, not a small topic, everything about goldsmithing, and geology while you are at it! Starting can be very hard, how do I do this, what about that? The jewellers Basia mentions, plus herself, are all well worth following. I've learned a lot from Basia and Megan, and Soham and... There are a few out there if plainly just want your hard-earned cash, be careful who you give it to, check out their free content first. Are they any good? How is their work? Can you stand to listen to their voice? There are a few I can't bear to have on. Like Basia, I'm re-investing all I sell in more material. I don't sell much as yet, but I'm working on it. Basia is so right, never copy another jewellers work, A plain ring is a plain ring, some styles are classic, but most work someone owns the intellectual copyright. Stay safe, Steve...
Yes, I absolutely agree with you, Steve!! Every point. I think we both know whom you have in mind haha :) Big yes to checking out the free content first, because there's tons out there. Subsciptions are great to show support to a content creator we follow when we want to contribute to their work or to access extra resources. But don't think that you have to pay regardless, it's not necessary. And totally agree about the copying issue. The rule is simple - to not copy, that's all :) Obviously many elements will be the same, because they are limited. It's how we arrange and style them that matters, what sort of jewellery we choose to use them on etc. I've recently discovered a copy of my manta ray pendant on Instagram and it really hurt me a lot. This person was a follower of mine, so they knew my work. And they "developed this original design" (their words) a year later than me. Every detail was the same, except for the bail. Yes, there's only so much we can do with manta element. BUT that doesn't mean every stamp placement, double layer, stone positioning and shape has to be the same! That was quite shocking to me. And it's not even a beginner, it's an established maker. While it's possible to create something similar to someone by a pure coincidence and without ever seeing that person's work, in this case it was an exact copy. So very unlikely to happen and the fact they followed me. So yeah, let's not do that folks! It's horrible to the person that's being copied. Take care Steve xx
@@TheArtOfMetalsmithing that must indeed have been horrible for you, something similar is one thing, but blatant copying, there is no excuse, ever. The next step is often a solicitors letter saying, 'Cease and desist' from using your work to make them money. Did they buy one off you? Or someone living close to them buy one? I can imagine it must want you to take everything on social media down, remove the inspiration from sight! I hope you don't, I am inspired by your work, as I hope many are, but without the nasty need to copy. Seeing how simple some of your work is, while much is very complex, makes it possible for us to say, 'Okay, I can do something like that!' NOT, 'I CAN DO THAT!' The fact that some very simple ideas sell, and sell well should inspire us to develop our own line. Something we can make easily, and well, can be the backbone of a great career. A starting point that finances your growth, is great, in fact, more than great, perfect even. But it has to be off your own work, not someone else's brainpower. We can read about state-sponsored, or just allowed copying is very hard to take, but when it's someone who followed you, maybe sent encouraging comments? More, 'Et Tu Brutus?' Going too far? NO! They are taking food out of your mouth, and even worse, coffee, even if it is de-caff! IT'S WRONG! It's lying, pretending that it's your own work when you've STOLEN IT! This makes my blood boil, yes I could copy someone else's work and pass it off as mine, but I'm not that kind of creep! Someone put in the comments about copying art, and you mentioned it too, yes you can sit in an art gallery and paint what you see, but not the same size! Not a replica, very obviously a fake not an early attempt at the same thing by the same artist. Bottom line, 'LEAVE OTHER PEOPLES WORK ALONE!!! Stay safe, Steve...
It usually looks white after it's take out of the pickling solution, when it's cleaned after soldering. Make sure your water is clean, your pickling powder is not outdated and properly used and that you don't contamnate the solution - never put other metals in the solution you use for silver, other than silver. And use only plastic or brass tweezers
Thank you for the video! I notice your spectacles are quite big. Mine too, and I have trouble finding safety glasses that fits over mine. Do you wear safety glasses when you’re working?
If not try a safety visser. It can help keep polish and other flying bits off your face, as well as out your eyes. Makes it easier to wash too. Stay safe, Steve...
It depends on what I;m doing - sometimes I use these and sometime I use regular ones when I need a bit more protection :) But I don't put the other ones over this pair. My vision isn't too bad, so it's ok. I hope you'll be able to find a good fit for yourself too!
Answering your questions! There was lots, so I'm sorry if I haven't answered yours, but I'll do my best to answer in the comment!
⭐️ Videos that vere mentioned:
- Sourcing gemstones series: ua-cam.com/video/R8YF8tWbo-I/v-deo.html
- What books to get to start learning: ua-cam.com/video/3h8eId4i7eQ/v-deo.html
- Megam Collins video about pricing + excel: ua-cam.com/video/mGjohjvAtEw/v-deo.html
⭐️ Enjoyed this video? Why not check out similar ones!
- Getting first customers, jewelry business struggles: ua-cam.com/video/n7jSuRCPPAI/v-deo.html
- How to open and organize online shop, getting out of the slump, will I have children: ua-cam.com/video/d6N4371vIME/v-deo.html
- How to grow jewelry business? Finding own style, becoming a jeweler, how to start selling: ua-cam.com/video/JEDxIucoZss/v-deo.html
“Your imagination is endless” love it. I really felt this way looking at crystal copper jewelry but Once I got out of my head and started using my hands and just feeling the flow I started to feel the magic of creating.
Perfectly said! Glad you found motivation and inspiration to create freely and find your own flow 🥰
Re the first question, i think it’s also important to remember than when you are new to jewellery making you are, first and foremost, working on developing your skills and techniques. A lot of the time this requires you to re-create things that exist for the sake of practicing those specific techniques, which can make you feel like you have nothing to offer and nothing new to bring to the table as those things have been done by others. However, once you have those skills down, you will 1) be able to combine them to create things that are your ideas, and 2) you will feel more free in designing things that are more unique because your technical skills will already be in place.
Also, if you look at insta, so many super successful (and high-end) jewellers have some similarities between them - it’s nothing to worry about 😊
Using work in the public domain, copyright-free is good. Learning the skills is where it has to start, if you never learn to saw, file, polish etc your work will always be less than you want. I want your work to be the best it can be so I can copy, NO, oops, sorry, admire, and learn how you made it to increase my skill level. It's easy to get it wrong, but if you want to be one of the greats, they design out of their own brain within their skill level. I have trouble designing new work, but I do come up with some and playing with it, other designs come too. The lack of new designs from my poor old brain does not give me the right to copy your work, in any way. Some of our free content teachers like Basia and Megan Collins show us something they have designed or is out of copyright and say make this, now do this bit like this and that bit... Not just telling us to use what may be their design, and a possible moneymaker, but telling/showing us how. A complex problem and a lot of lawyers make a lot of money from trying to sort it out. NO! Just do not copy other peoples work!
Stay safe, Steve...
@@stephencoster9532 looking at how, for example, a fishtail pave setting is done so you could do it yourself is not the same as copying someone else’s design 😉
Yes, I agree with you! Of course it's not the general design we're talking about, but rather intricate ones that are so clearly a product of someone else's imagination, very distinctive and very "them". We have no business repeating that, because it doesn't make sense. Instead, we should apply the techniques and skills and use that to create our own vision 😍 But when it comes to specific designs like stacking rings, statement gemstone rings that are framed by leaves, dangle earrings or gemstone pendants - that will always have some similarities, because there's only so many ways to go about it :) The difference will be in details - the shape of the leaf (especially if someone draws it first and then cuts it out) or a certain solution for the bail. However, we should never worry too much and stress over it. Because as long as we are not intentionally copying an item 1:1, it will always turn out different, coming from underneath our hands 😀 As for the high end brands - absolutely, they will always look very similar, because they are based on classic and popular designs and forms.
@@alisa.maks26 exactly, using a style or technique is how we learn, and we all need to learn. That is not copying but using the same or similar technique, and that is good. As Basia says it is when someone takes what is yours and says, 'Look what I've designed and made,' that is when it is wrong. If apart from some very minor differences in the bail it could be someone else's work, something, that has been made before yours. That is when lawyers often get involved and start earning a lot of money. If I make something from out my own head, that is not a copy, that is wonderful. If I change one or two very minor details from something from out of your head, make it and sell it, that to me is theft. I'm not a good or prolific designer, but I can do it, and do. I will never paint the MonaLisa or even close, but if I paint the girl next door and everybody, okay two or three people like it, then that is okay. Even if she had the same pose, I believe that is okay as it's a totally different piece of work, but if I just change her eye colour??? Stay safe, Steve...
Thanks for answering my questions! After asking, I found a couple videos of yours going over stone sourcing! ..and then went down a rabbit hole of all your videos! Metalsmithing can seem like a closed door for people wanting to entering the scene, but you are so inviting and inclusive in the way you teach and share tips. Thank you so much for everything!
My pleasure, Elsa! ❤️ I know the subject of sourcing gems and other materials can be intimidating and I remember how I struggled in the beginning. I'm happy to share what I can to make it at least a bit easier for others 🥰 And to be honest, it does seem like it's hard to get inside for those who never tried it before indeed. But once you start learning bit by bit, it really becomes easier! Lots of things can be figured out and the resources out there are growing each day 😍 I'm glad my videos are helpful. Hope you guys are well under all that snow on the other side of the World! Hope you're staying warm, take care! ❤️
I liked your answer to someone's question whether there is anything new to produce especially of the huge production that may be similar to what we have in mind
Thank you so much for the shout-out! As Basia said, feel free to download the pricing spreadsheet for free on my website☺️ And yes we are planning something special together for you all! 😉
Thank you Megan for putting up the spreadsheet, and for free! I'm looking forward to your work with Basia, judging by the high standard you both show a co-production will be something very special indeed, can you go higher than you already do?
I'm thrilled that two such W very talented designers/goldsmiths should get together to help us, your work individually is wonderful, very much 'art jewellery', you could get a well-deserved paycheck for what you both give us for free. Your going Patreon could help with this, I said 'well deserved' and mean it. Living in different countries could be a right pain to sort, but us joining both patreons may be an answer. The 'Membership' set-up on YT has problems, another jeweller I follow Chris, the 'DiamondFitter' worked for over 20 years in London making high-end fittings for the very rich and famous. He now lives in Japan with his family teaching on YT, with the most informative videos being only on YT. Worth a look?
Stay safe, Steve...
My pleasure, I think it's great and deserves more views! More people should watch it, it's very helpful. Can't wait for our collab too 😍🌺
@@stephencoster9532 Thanks for your very kind words Steve! We are excited to make something together for you! And thank you so much for suggesting I set up my Patreon. I have set it up now and will be announcing it in tomorrow's video. ;) Thanks again for your kind words. Wishing you a lovely weekend and see you in tomorrow's video 😉 Stay safe, Megan
@@TheArtOfMetalsmithing Thank you!! And thanks to you, more people are finding it and making use of it. 🥰
@@megan.collinsgood, you deserve any help we can give you. The more you (2) grow, the more opportunity for us to learn and grow too, and I truly believe that this industry needs all the new blood it can get, with new ideas always coming in allowing anybody to adorn themselves with any style, always allowing people to dress in the mode they feel at that time. While I and people like me can only give a small amount, it adds up to help you do what you need. It can allow you to budget growth and even time off! It is a way of saying thank you for all you give us, and you give us a great deal, of information, inspiration, insight and you feed our hunger to learn in a good way, saving us time and money! Your generosity deserves a thank you, and this is one way.
So stay safe, Steve...
Thank so much for your answer to the first question, when you think about new trends that evolve in fashion and even old trends that return it really helps you realise that people are contributing to that by being slightly original or different in their own ways. I'm launching my jewellery business soon and this was also something on my mind, but your answer makes me feel better!
Exactly! It's all about the evolution. Of course it's extremely hard to create something completely new and unseen. What makes it unique is our own input, our own vision and how we arrange the elements. How we bring the idea to life. Because when you look at it from this point of view, there's endless possibilities. Placements of elements, textures, shapes, technical aspects of certain construction choices and more! And sometimes something is born this way, that really looks like a brand new idea! :) There is a maker, Azetama on Instagram. She's recently created several miniatures, including tiny kalimba, all out of silver. She hasn't invented miniatures of course. But I've never seen a silver miniature kalimba before, and not the way she made it! The way she decorated it and the whole style was 100% hers. Just incredible :)
Thank you for your insight! Very helpful!
Love your answer to the first question! Absolutely right ✨🙌🏻
Thank you lovely! I'm happy you agree! I feel very strongly about it ❤️
Kate Richbourg was one I started with ....Rio Grande has some good video info.
You are very thoughtful in your response about new art. I agree whole heartedly with your response.
Thank you Kim 🙏 And I;m happy you agree, it may be a sensitive subject, but I do believe that the rules are quite simple and it's easy not to cross the line if we stay mindful
Thanks Basia for the lovely Q&A session. Really enjoyed it!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you so much for watching ♥️
Hi Basia, I have a question for you. I've been wondering about this for a while: when one is finished with their pickle (exhausted, need new) we are supposed to neutralize it with baking soda before disposing of it, right? So, that tells me that baking soda neutralizes pickle. Which leads me to this: if we put baking soda in our quench bowl and quench before pickling (as we are trained to do), isn't each quench to pickle dip/soak introducing baking soda into our pickle, thus ultimately neutralizing the exact effect we need to have the acid remove oxidation? I wonder if a water quench, then pickle, THEN, a separate baking soda rinse would be more appropriate and chemically "correct" for this application. I wonder what you think. Hopefully, this is a good question for your Q & A's. I so appreciate you and the time you take to share your fabulous fun and brilliant self - and of course, your gorgeous work.
I'm afraid I don't know :) But I'll keep my eyes peeled if I come across that info in the future! Thank you for watching
Meghan Collins is awesome ! Good info too !
She absolutely is! I love her videos :)) Thank you so much Deb ♥️
YAY! WELL SAID! Great CONFIDENCE BUILDER VIDEO!
that's awesome to hear! Thank you, I'm very happy you enjoyed it! ♥️
I don't talk to you so much but in this instance you are absolutely correct. The possibility's are endless there will always be room for the next artist with a imagination.
(Malzaki, my thoughts. x) Art inspires, it's meant to. Don't be afraid to copy, after all that's how the masters learnt. When you become more confident you will naturally express your own ideas. I'm loving your channel Stardust. x
Of course, copying as a way of learning and keeping it in private is absolutely fine! However I don't encourage copying and then sharing or selling that work, as this isn't alright, we should always respect other people's work and never copy. We are capable of coming up with incredible, unique ideas, even if it takes a little while ❤️
Sorry for the 'Thumbs down', Jim but I believe copying is never good. You can make the elements, just never put them together, that way you will never be tempted. I've known a few people who were copied, and it hurt them both in mind and purse! Never mind how you think of it, please never copy! Stay safe, Steve...
Great video Basia😍
You are a very inspiring person.
I started with your tutorials and learned a lot, you are a great teacher that explaining everything very well.
Thanks 🙏🏻🌷for sharing your knowledge.
Good Luck 🍀for your future projects!🧚🏻
Thank you so much Justyna! I appreciate it a lot and I'm very happy that you think so! 🌞🌺
I love the Q&A format videos from you!
I'm very happy that you do! :)) I like filming these videos, gotta do it more often haha
@@TheArtOfMetalsmithingyes please!!!, Steve...
Very good ❤ love your answer 😊
😁👍
I have watched the majority of your videos, I'm just starting out in jewellery making(currently still gathering tools) I love the topics you talk about and I have learned a lot from you so thank-you, my only issue is how you tell people not to copy and steal other people's work.... i look at a lot of things for inspiration so what is the difference? Those spoon rings I have seen one person in particular on tiktok make, is this not considered stealing/copying? I'm not meaning any harm by my question I'm just genuinely curious so I don't upset anyone, thanks in advance ✌🏻❤
I'm so happy you're finding value in my videos! I hope they will be helpful on your jewelry making journey, the beginning stage is very exciting! 🥰
To answer your question. I completely understand why you might feel confused, but it's actually very simple, I'll try to explain as best as I can.
When someone makes spoon rings, they are transforming an already existing item and adapting the design. The spoon hasn't been created by them. If, however, you started from scratch by making a spoon in a specific design that's your own, added blue gems, added particular details and then turned that into a ring, that would make it your own. A person, that repeats the entire process, uses the same design, same gems, same elements and repeats it 1:1 and then makes a spoon is copying and stealing your idea and your design (your IP - intellectual property).
Another example. Many people use fish in their work. Different types of fish, including Koi. And of course that is not copying. You can make a pendant with koi, sun and flowers and I can I make it too. Copying happens when one of us made it first and other person took that design and recreated it. Even if you changed silver to brass, red gem to blue gem, but everything else is identical, that's still a copy.
Copy is when a design + style + placements of elements is replicated. That also relates to other art forms.
I can't go onto pinterest, find a tattoo design and make it in silver (exactly the same) and call it my own. It's not. Someone else drew that concept, not me. So despite making it in a new medium, it was still a copy.
For example my Hogwarts castle in one of the recent videos. I found the vector drawing online, followed the link and got it from Adobe stock. I got it with a free trial, but you can also buy it if there is no trial. If I just downloaded that drawing and turned it into a jewelery piece, that would be a copy and stealing. By purchasing the drawing this artist was paid and the licence allows me to reproduce their work.
I also created manta ray design for my little pendants. Of course, everyone can use manta in their work. But trust me, you can absolutely tell when someone copied your work, when every single detail is exactly the same as in my design. It's the placement of elements, placement of stamping, shaoe of the gem and we it's placed and overall personal style that make the design unique. By reproducing a design we are essentially copying. And that is a very bad practice, especially for beginner makers who want to pass a design as their own.
It's really worth the time to experiment and practice designs to create own style ❤️ And it's not very difficult. Which stones are you drawn to the most? Use those. Do you love any elements in particular? Draw them in your style and experiment with placements.
I have tons of photos saved on my IG from other makers. I use them for inspo too: which technique should I try next? Here someone is using thick bezel and it looks awesome, I should try it too. Omg, they added gold! I need to combine gold and silver too. So it's more about the possibilities and techniques, rather than a particular design this person made. I will try a technique but in my own design, like Koi fish for example.
Or layering of metal, so many jewellers do it, but they all translate it to their own style and design.
I hope this makes sense ❤️ I'm happy to talk about it some more in future videos 🙏❤️
Don't worry. Inspiration is ok. You will know if you are about to copy someone, it won't happen by accident ❤️ And it's ok to start with simple designs and gradually discover your favourites. I don't know what type of jewellery you want to make, statement or minimal, but if you absolutely can't draw, there are stocks out there with beautiful vector drawings for cheap, and you can use it as a design for your jewellery 😀
I didn't expect such an in depth reply but I'm grateful you took the time to explain, a video about it would be a great topic, I'm sure people would appreciate the information, again thank you 😊
Hiya Lady Stardust, not a small topic, everything about goldsmithing, and geology while you are at it! Starting can be very hard, how do I do this, what about that? The jewellers Basia mentions, plus herself, are all well worth following. I've learned a lot from Basia and Megan, and Soham and... There are a few out there if plainly just want your hard-earned cash, be careful who you give it to, check out their free content first. Are they any good? How is their work? Can you stand to listen to their voice? There are a few I can't bear to have on. Like Basia, I'm re-investing all I sell in more material. I don't sell much as yet, but I'm working on it.
Basia is so right, never copy another jewellers work, A plain ring is a plain ring, some styles are classic, but most work someone owns the intellectual copyright.
Stay safe, Steve...
Yes, I absolutely agree with you, Steve!! Every point. I think we both know whom you have in mind haha :)
Big yes to checking out the free content first, because there's tons out there. Subsciptions are great to show support to a content creator we follow when we want to contribute to their work or to access extra resources. But don't think that you have to pay regardless, it's not necessary.
And totally agree about the copying issue. The rule is simple - to not copy, that's all :) Obviously many elements will be the same, because they are limited. It's how we arrange and style them that matters, what sort of jewellery we choose to use them on etc. I've recently discovered a copy of my manta ray pendant on Instagram and it really hurt me a lot. This person was a follower of mine, so they knew my work. And they "developed this original design" (their words) a year later than me. Every detail was the same, except for the bail. Yes, there's only so much we can do with manta element. BUT that doesn't mean every stamp placement, double layer, stone positioning and shape has to be the same! That was quite shocking to me. And it's not even a beginner, it's an established maker. While it's possible to create something similar to someone by a pure coincidence and without ever seeing that person's work, in this case it was an exact copy. So very unlikely to happen and the fact they followed me. So yeah, let's not do that folks! It's horrible to the person that's being copied. Take care Steve xx
@@TheArtOfMetalsmithing that must indeed have been horrible for you, something similar is one thing, but blatant copying, there is no excuse, ever. The next step is often a solicitors letter saying, 'Cease and desist' from using your work to make them money. Did they buy one off you? Or someone living close to them buy one? I can imagine it must want you to take everything on social media down, remove the inspiration from sight! I hope you don't, I am inspired by your work, as I hope many are, but without the nasty need to copy. Seeing how simple some of your work is, while much is very complex, makes it possible for us to say, 'Okay, I can do something like that!' NOT, 'I CAN DO THAT!' The fact that some very simple ideas sell, and sell well should inspire us to develop our own line. Something we can make easily, and well, can be the backbone of a great career. A starting point that finances your growth, is great, in fact, more than great, perfect even. But it has to be off your own work, not someone else's brainpower. We can read about state-sponsored, or just allowed copying is very hard to take, but when it's someone who followed you, maybe sent encouraging comments? More, 'Et Tu Brutus?' Going too far? NO! They are taking food out of your mouth, and even worse, coffee, even if it is de-caff! IT'S WRONG! It's lying, pretending that it's your own work when you've STOLEN IT! This makes my blood boil, yes I could copy someone else's work and pass it off as mine, but I'm not that kind of creep! Someone put in the comments about copying art, and you mentioned it too, yes you can sit in an art gallery and paint what you see, but not the same size! Not a replica, very obviously a fake not an early attempt at the same thing by the same artist. Bottom line, 'LEAVE OTHER PEOPLES WORK ALONE!!!
Stay safe, Steve...
What do you think of Shopify as a website? Want it to look professional
Where do you buy your silver?
This was good cheers mate
Thanks so much Scarlet! Happy you enjoyed it :)
can i ask how you get your jewelry to look white? on instagram lot of your pieces look white. mine always looks just grey or silver.. thanks!
It usually looks white after it's take out of the pickling solution, when it's cleaned after soldering. Make sure your water is clean, your pickling powder is not outdated and properly used and that you don't contamnate the solution - never put other metals in the solution you use for silver, other than silver. And use only plastic or brass tweezers
Hello I want you to teach me this is cool I have beautiful stones I want to modify them
Do you by your supplies as wholesale? If so, how do you find companies that will sell wholesale supplies? Thanks!
No, I didn't, sorry!
Thank you for the video! I notice your spectacles are quite big. Mine too, and I have trouble finding safety glasses that fits over mine. Do you wear safety glasses when you’re working?
If not try a safety visser. It can help keep polish and other flying bits off your face, as well as out your eyes. Makes it easier to wash too. Stay safe, Steve...
It depends on what I;m doing - sometimes I use these and sometime I use regular ones when I need a bit more protection :) But I don't put the other ones over this pair. My vision isn't too bad, so it's ok. I hope you'll be able to find a good fit for yourself too!
If i want tools do you ship to Africa east Africa Kenya 🇰🇪 Nairobi Kenya
I don't sell tools :)