Metalwork: Folding and using enamel

I started looking at how I could create some of the patterns I have been looking at, in a more three dimensional way, and experimenting more with materials instead of designing something and then making it. I wanted to try different techniques of making pattern and furthering my ideas that way, before deciding what jewellery or object the piece will be. I started looking at origami folding techniques, and looked at a jeweller, Lois Martens, who uses folding in her silversmithing.

I then started experimenting with folding copper, and I found a shape I liked, which had a cross shape through it.

I then started thinking about how I could possibly decorate it, on the inside, so the pattern is only visible through the cross shape, I first thought about putting pattern onto the metal, before I folded it completely. I decided to try some enamel, but I only put it on the square part that shows through the cross.

I thought this worked very well, and was a good way of putting patterns directly onto the metal. I also tried putting paper squares into them with pattern on, and I found that looked good, but I think I would prefer a more intricate pattern on the paper, if it were to be made into a piece of jewellery.

I then decided to try some more enameling, because I think it has a texture and shine that contrasts well with the copper. I tried both putting pattern in the enamel, and some plainer ones, where I focussed on colour, rather than a regular pattern.

 To do this, I mixed the enamel with a little bit of water (keeping each colour separate) and used it like paint onto the copper. I did this with six copper squares, and left them for the water to dry before I heated them. The water has to completely dry out before heating, otherwise it would boil, and could cause the enamel to come off the piece. I used a blowtorch to heat each square until the enamel melted and went smooth and shiny.

I like using enamel because it changes when it is heated, and I find it very interesting to see how they look afterwards.

I folded the edges in before I put the pieces in the acid to get rid of the oxide on the copper.

I then put them together in a regular grid, so that it created another pattern of where the sides meet, and create little diamonds in a regular geometric pattern.