Customer Appreciation Photo!

There's nothing better than getting to help make someone's big day just a little more special. This lovely German couple was such a pleasure to work with!

How To Measure Your Ring Size

If you're considering buying a new ring, one of the most important things to know is your ring size. Here are a few quick rules for getting your correct size: 

Finger size can vary from day to day or even throughout the day due to a variety of factors including diet, hydration, exercise, allergies, temperature, etc. It can be difficult to get an accurate size even when using a ring sizer, so I recommend measuring your finger more than once, ideally at different times of day. Later in the day is generally best, as your finger is likely to be its largest after a day of working with your hands and being in the heat of the day. 

In addition, be sure the sizer slides comfortably over your knuckle. If the ring you wish to order is over 1/4” (6mm) wide, I would recommend ordering a slightly larger ring to compensate for the width. Wider rings constrict more of the finger and so will fit tighter than a narrower ring of the same size. Go up 1/4 size if you are ordering a ring between 1/4” (6mm) and 5/16” (68mm) wide. Go up 1/2 size if you are ordering a ring that is 3/8” (9.5mm) wide or wider.

#LoveWins

Have you bought your wedding bands from Down to the Wire Designs? I would love to see your photo! Keep in mind, it doesn't just have to be photos of the wedding bands -- feel free to share your favorite moment of the day. You can submit your photo via a Facebook private message or email it to downtothewiredesigns@gmail.com . I'll try to post as many as I can!

A New Old Favorite

This is a new set in my Opposites Attract wedding band line. It makes use of a pattern I have used many times before in my work. It's always enjoyable to take a much-loved element of my work and find a new way to make it relevant.

My Essential Four

One thing I love about metalsmithing is that no matter how long you've been doing it, there's always more to learn. Towards that end, I have happily accumulated a stash of favorite go-to books dedicated to jewelry and metalsmithing. My book collection has proven to be an invaluable resource whenever I've had a technical question or needed some creative inspiration.

Of these books, there's a small handful that I seem to return to again and again. I consider these books essential to my library. Here are my Essential Four:

The Complete Metalsmith: An Illustrated Handbook by Tim McCreight - This book is the bible of metalsmithing for beginners. There is lots of basic, practical information and even now I find myself flipping through its pages from time to time.

Knitted, Knotted, Twisted, and Twined: The Jewelry of Mary Lee Hu by Stefano Catalani, Jeannine Falino, Janet Koplos - When I first discovered jewelry making at the University of Washington, Mary Lee Hu was my jewelry professor. After just two classes, I was hooked. Her work appealed to me in so many ways, but particularly because it is so intricate and precise.

1000 Rings: Inspiring Adornments for the Hand (500 Series) by Marthe Le Van and Robert W. Ebendorf - This was the first book that ever included a piece of my work. There’s even more of a sentimental aspect, as my niece was the person who chose the piece for submission. 

Calder Jewelry by Alexander & Holton, eds., et al. - I love Alexander Calder’s work because he has always struck me as a tinkerer. I admire that spirit. Calder wasn’t a trained jeweler – he was open to experimenting with forms.


Which books do you find yourself reaching for again and again?

New Work

So pleased with the way this one turned out. The bride and groom designed this band with a dogwood/bird pattern in 14k white gold.