get wired!

One of the ways that Lonesome Road Studio has evolved over time is in regard to jewelry components. I've always used sterling silver, gold-filled, copper. But recently I've developed a love for the beauty of handcrafted artisan earwires.

Picture the three pairs of earrings above with typical earwires purchased from a craft store or other similar source. While they would still be three lovely pairs of earrings (of course, I created them hehe), the handcrafted artisan earwires add so much more to the finished piece.

At this time I am still purchasing the earwires from the artisans (sterling silver earwires by Aunali in photos one and three; oxidized sterling silver earwires by Rocki's Artisan Supplies in photo two). Yet, in my quest to learn more techniques related to my craft and to provide a unique and beautiful item with my own creative touch (and that is still affordable), I am going to try my own hand at artisan earwires. To begin with, I have found this basic earwire tutorial, but I am always willing to learn from others. Feel free to post your links to your own tutorials, or add some helpful tips for the earwire newbies out there!