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The Detectorist
This project was all about wire-wrapping. Similar to my last post regarding the same medium of resin but executed in a new way, this was not my typical wirework. Wire wrapping can be an entire artist’s work on its own. Wire was my gateway to more traditional metalwork, but this type of wire wrapping had to be carefully measured, and I needed three more hands to hold all of the elements at once.
I used a mix of 20gauge square and 24gauge round sterling silver wire to complement the really spectacular focal point, a 1941 Walking Liberty silver half dollar! Found by metal detecting, this client wanted to be able to wear his find and had seen examples of wire wrapping coins. It’s a challenge to see an idea and try to figure out how it was done. We recreated something similar while allowing for artistic differences.
We were careful that liberty was not obstructed while keeping a style that didn’t feel feminine. I tested two design attempts in copper before the final in silver. Using square wire means there can’t be twisting. If overworked, wire gets kinks in it and can become brittle. When I want metal to hold a shape, I solder it. This design had to be all about tension, no solder allowed. Ultimately, we were really pleased with the outcome. There’s muscle memory in my hands now to understand the breaking point of various wire gauges. Every project teaches a lesson and this was certainly no exception.
