The Artists

Nancy Travis - Thimbleberry Design

Artisan jewelry made with recycled silver

(206) 793-4730
nancy@thimbleberrydesign.com
www.thimbleberrydesign.com

When I discovered precious metal clay (also known as PMC) about seven years ago, I knew that I had found the medium to challenge my creative impulse and create beautiful, wearable art. I continue to be amazed by the seemingly endless possibilities the material brings. I am also so grateful that PMC is a "green" product - a way to recycle silver, reclaimed and refined in a environmentally sound process.

PMC is in a clay-like state when I sculpt and work with it. Then, after drying, it transforms to a fragile grey creation with no sign of any metallic qualities. Next, the piece is fired in a kiln to "burn off" the organic binders and fuse the silver particles together. After firing, the silver is left white in color and must be polished to bring out the shine.

The inspiration for my designs comes from the perspective that I want to create jewelry to express the possibilities from natural world and from people through the ages. I am on the constant lookout for textures, motifs and designs from ancient cultures, modern life and the natural world. I create molds, photo polymer plates, carve or sculpt the design into the clay. After the silver component is done, I complete the piece by setting stones into the silver or adding gemstone beads. Each handcrafted item is unique, and no item is exactly the same.

2010 Summer Studio Tour: August 13, 14 & 15

2010 Winter Studio Tour: December December 3, 4 & 5

Questions? Call 206-842-0504, or e-mail us at: bistudiotour@earthlink.net.