"Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly. You were only waiting for this moment to arise." (John Lennon, Paul McCartney)
Bird Cage Box - Build a birdcage from scratch! On day one, learn to put some simple components together to form the structure, add a touch of solder, and voilá – a darling one-of-a-kind birdcage is created! This is the cutest little project. You will be making a bird to hang inside on its own handmade perch as well. And we won't stop there. Attach the birdcage to a beautiful small brass box, and add whimsical legs for it to roost on! You can embellish this to your heart's desire; make it wacky or romantic, your choice, and put a secret message or totem inside your sweet birdcage box.
These are a blast to make and a treasure to enjoy forever. Almost everything will be included in the kit. Bring your torch, some tools, and a friend for the kick-off project of our fun-filled "bird brain weekend"!
All levels are welcome!
Bird Box Necklace - Learn to make a box pendant in this fabulous workshop! On day two, make a box from sheet metal to hold your sweet hand-painted bird head. You can choose which style to finish your box off – coat it in solder for a silver look, OR use the no-solder method – it's your choice. Both options are adorable when set into the box bezel with the bird head that you will be painting in your chosen color scheme. Then wire the pendant with some chain and some darling components that you will supply, incorporating a twig if you like.
We will also make some beautiful dangle charms flooded with solder and stamped for a touch of design to hang off the bottom of the pendant. (Soldering is optional in this workshop.) Make your necklace short with some leather cord (Riki to supply), or bring some chain and make it long if you prefer. Once you know how to make this sweet box, there are so many possibilities!
Come play with metals, a touch of paint, learn some wiring techniques, and make a handmade clasp. What better way to wrap up a bird brain weekend?!? Fun, fun!!
All levels welcome!
A list of supplies for both workshops is available upon request at rikis1@mac.com
Riki Schumacher is a sought-after favorite on the workshop circuit and has been published in Jewelry Affaire and Belle Armoire Jewelry magazines. Her designs have a decidedly romantic, vintage, French flair.
Visit Riki's blog where you'll find helpful tutorials and be further inspired to make more "romantic relics." And feel free to contact her if you have any questions: rikis1@mac.com