Bead Journal Project
Round Peg In A Square Hole

2010 - July - Cloisonne

This is the 7th piece of this BJP. In addition to the enamel, I have used glass, ceramic and metal beads, silk ribbon embroidery (I dyed the ribbon), shisha mirrors with thread embroidery, and Swarovski Crystal Sequins.

The enamel uses the Cloisonne technique on fine silver where f/s wire is bent to for the design and then enamel is wet inlaid into the resulting spaces. When enough enamel is fired (about 15 or so firings), the entire piece is ground down to an even surface. I then apply surface texture (twisted f/s wire and balls that I make myself) and give the piece a final firing. The enamel used is leaded vitreous enamel and gold foil was used under the dove's surface. The heart has a luster on top (this is a slight metallic pigment).

Roll your mouse over the image to see a close up of the enamel.