Spring Petals Story. a.k.a. A Custom Design That Grew Into Something Else

 Like many artists, I have mixed feelings about custom work. It usually takes tons of time and it doesn't always work out, but when it does, it is an immensely rewarding experience. 

I absolutely love it when I can make someone happy by helping them shape an abstract idea into something tangible.

I also like a good creative challenge. Custom work breaks the routine and encourages you to explore new shapes and test new ideas. Concentrating on the fresh task from someone else's head gives you a new perspective and a focused direction that you probably would not choose otherwise. These creative journeys are so fun!

This story is about a custom necklace order that did not really happen. 

It's also a public confession - I suck at sketching. It's much easier for me to grab a pair of pliers and whip a quick prototype shape out of copper wire than to draw the same shape on paper. 

A couple of weeks ago I received a question if I could make a necklace to go with these copper spiral earrings. We exchanged a few messages, and I produced a quick "sketch". My customer liked the idea and wanted to have it made but later changed her mind and went with a simple wire wrapped copper chain instead - a versatile piece that goes well with almost anything. 

The not-so-custom order was made and shipped, but my head was left buzzing with ideas that wanted to BE. First was the double spiral necklace which turned out almost exactly like I envisioned it.

Initially I wanted to use my signature wire wrapped chain that goes so well with pendants, but decided that this necklace would benefit from a new "airy" chain pattern with bigger loops. I think it better matches the mood of the piece. 

I also found an elegant way to "round" the ends of the spiral to ensure it doesn't catch on clothes. Wearability is a very important part of my jewelry design process.

With the double spiral out of the system, I still wasn't satisfied. Something else wanted to be made :) These waves with wire wrapped petals and earthy olive green lampwork beads were finished late at night and I think it's my personal favorite necklace from this line. 

And finally the necklace that I don't really know how to describe. Is this a variation of a pretzel shape? :) The idea of this bohemian wire lace-like pattern came to me after finishing the wavy necklace and I had to get out of bed to draw myself a note to remember this in the morning. No, I won't show the "sketch" of that squiggle LOL

So that's the end of the petals attack for now. It feels good to see them all finished and lined up. 

When something gets stuck in your head, sometimes the only way to get rid of it is to let it out and to let it live.