I continued chasing my copper “stones” and soldered a ring onto the back of the Shadow Bloom pendant. The pendant shape executed well with the new oak punches, so it’s nearly ready to finish. I just have to clean up around the solder a little and give it a final polish. Soldering is going more smoothly. The regular time I’ve been spending at the bench has been paying off. My chasing is improving too. Though it’s tiring after working for a while, I’ve definitely built control. Overall, I’m happy with the tools I’ve made: the chasing tools are perfect, and my extra-large oak forming punches helped perfect the curve of the torque wire, which I hadn’t considered until I had the tools in my hand. It’s nice that the torque is further strengthened that way too.
I’m hoping to complete the Tipping point painting before my parents arrive on Friday. I added some layers to it, and I’m happy with the direction, but it’s decidedly unfinished. Some color pops with the new washy technique will help balance the composition and make it more interesting. I expect it to take two to three more layers before it feels finished.
One of the kids wanted to make papier maché, which was convenient. I was able to indulge him while making another traditional papier maché “stone.” The new one needs a few more layers, but my papier maché technique is better than with the first one. I think this will be a good addition to the group.