Beads, Glass, Silverclay, Metal Art & Assorted Gifts
(Click for more information on each product)
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Metal Art - Handpainted |
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Silver Clay |
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Hair Accessories |
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Findings |
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| Beads - Pearls |
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Tools |
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Display and Packaging |
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Findings and Dichroic |
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Jewellery |
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Wire, Leather and Thread |
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Pendants |
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Sun Catchers |
Silver Clay - Precious Metal Clay ( PMC)
PMC was developed by Mitsubishi Materials Corporation early in the 1990’s. Particles of fine silver or gold combined with a non-toxic organic binder and water made up the original PMC called PMC standard. PMC must be fired in a kiln or hotpot to fuse the metal and burn away the water and binder. PMC standard is fired at 16500F (9000C) for two hours with a resulting shrinkage rate of 30%. With the introduction of PMC + the firing temperature reduced to 14700F (8000C) and the firing time was reduced to 10 minutes.
A reduction in metal particle size, binder and water content increased the density and lowered the shrinkage rate to 12%. This allowed glass and some types of gemstones to be added prior to firing. With research continuing, new products are emerging. PMC 3 and sheet PMC are the latest additions. With the sheet PMC the water has been eliminated allowing a longer working time and an even lower firing temperature of 12900F (7000C).
Depending on the artist’s requirements PMC is produced in Sheet, Clay or Paste form. These have allowed artists an ever-greater choice of products to stretch their imagination. The products are non-toxic, extremely easy to use and produce great results. PMC is available in Silver or Gold.
Art Clay
Art Clay is a water-based clay made from pure silver powder, water and binder. It also comes in 22k gold. Art Clay is very versatile and can be rolled, stretched and moulded to various shapes. It then must be dried becoming a plaster like product.
At this stage it can be filed, ground or carved. If the artist is unhappy with the results it can be returned to a clay consistency by simply adding small amounts of water and kneading. When the artist is happy with the desired shape and finish it is fired to between 6500C and 8700C. The binder burns away leaving 99.9% pure silver. This may then be polished to a mirror finish. Art Clay has a shrinkage rate of about 8 to 9%.
Metal Art
Our Metal Art is one of the most unique handmade products sold in Australia. Wall hanging 3D metal sculptures. It is produced in vibrant and vivid colours and in an assortment of designs. Birds, fish, ships, seahorses, butterflies, animals, the list is endless. Some custom design pieces can be made upon request.
Each piece is made from sheet metal or copper. The sheet is cut using an oxy or laser and then beaten to enhance the outline and character definitions. These pieces are brought together with a welder. Paint is applied with the aid of an airbrush, the item baked and clear coated giving a durable and gloss finish. This gives each piece a unique and stunning appearance. After many request the range has an exciting new addition not previously available. The original product was designed for interior use only and now it is available with a powder coated finish and this enables it to be used outside giving a stunning look near pools, on fences and in gardens and trees.
As each piece is hand crafted and painted, the photos on our web site are a guide only. We cannot guarantee the colour or design to be the same. If you specifically require a colour theme or matching pieces we advise that you contact us to discuss the matter. We must also point out that these sculptors must be hand made to order and there is a usual production and delivery time of about 3 to 4 weeks on items not held in stock.
Beads
We are now providing a large range of quality beads. We travel aboard to try to find items that are just a little different, negotiate prices and import in small quantities. These savings are passed onto you the customer.
We stock delicate filigree balls and tubes for lighter softer jewellery to solid feature beads for a stronger look. Glass, lampwork, crystal, shell, foil, metal, semi precious stone and seed beads all combine to give you a variety of choices for your jewellery.
Findings
We stock a large range of quality findings. All you need to create Necklaces, Earrings, Bracelets or whatever your imagination dreams of. From crimps to clasps, hooks to spacers, they are all available. We are continually receiving new stock so check it out now.
Pendants
We carry pendants carved from jade, mother of pearl and stone. Pendants crafted from crystals, pearl, and bone. Pendants cast from silver and pewter and our beautiful dichroic glass created in the centre of a furnace. Our range of pendants will allow you to make some stunning jewellery.
Wire, Leather & Threads
Once the decision on the style of necklace has been made, a stringing medium must be chosen. We carry a large range of tiger tail, wire, leather, chain and chokers. Also available are gold and radium plated neck wires, memory wire, cotton thread and elastic in a large range of colours. Additionally, we have ready-made necklets of leather, rubber and imitation suede.
Chain
Our range of gold, silver and nickle plated chains are growing as we continually source new lines. Chains may be purchased either in continuous length or pre finished ready to add a pendant or charm.
Dichroic Glass
Dichroic is a high-tech optical coating that selectively reflects certain wavelengths (colours) of light and allows the remaining wavelengths to transmit through. This same effect is seen in nature in peacock feathers and opals.
The word "dichroic" means two colours, which refers to transmitted colour and reflected colour. The coating process is done in a high vacuum chamber that has several pieces of specialized equipment to control and monitor the coating process.
Dichroic Glass can be cut, fused and fired to form stunning jewellery. Its endless vibrant colours allow you to make your own unique design. We supply all the components and consumables to make these stunning pieces yourself. Alternatively, you may select from our display of individually crafted pieces.
Tools
The tools you purchase today, you will have tomorrow. Some think tools are the most important item in your beading inventory. See if we have something that you need.
Display and Packaging
An assortment of bags, inserts, and boxes allows you to sell your finished item in a professional manner. From large perspex display boxes and earring stands to leatherette busts and resin hands, all designed to promote your product.
Jewellery
Men and women have adorned themselves with jewellery for centuries made with gemstones, wood, shell, gold and silver. All has been worn and loved.
We have a range of quality hand crafted pieces in pearl, semi precious, glass and many other materials. Most are one off unique designs. We also carry a large range of ready-made pieces, earrings, necklaces hairclips and some lovely bangles. The styles and designs are endless. These change constantly so have a look at our web page
Suncatchers
Many of our crystal suncatchers are adorned with semi precious stone. The magical mythical powers of crystal can be felt as the sun sends reflected rainbows of light spiralling on countless surfaces near them. We carry a large range of Australian made products