VINE DESIGN and PMC DESIGN STUDIO

PMC Ring with Bronze & Sterling Band

2012-01-30T22:53:00.000-08:00

Another sample of my work using the flexibiliy of PMC and fine metal work.

More.....

2012-01-29T22:55:00.000-08:00

Bronze Cuff with Sterling Setting

2011-12-07T23:43:00.000-08:00

Taking a MetalSmithing Class from Davide Bigazzi to see how to incorporate traditional metalsmithing with Precious Metal Clay and Bronz Clay. This took awhile to work on fabrication but it is time well spent.

My All-Time Favorite Ring

2011-12-07T14:28:00.000-08:00

Adore this chunky ring band. Added some 22K gold to it and WOW! It is now my all-time favorite.

Welcome to Vine Design Jewelry

2011-11-06T15:16:00.000-08:00

I love creating! I often lie awake at night drawing designs in the sketchbook on my nightstand. I just can't get jewelry out of my head. When I have a spare moment I am in my home studio creating one-of-a-kind jewelry. My specialty is hand crafting silver. I often use vintage buttons and found objects and transform them into something more modern. I feel like a potter forming and fashioning my media and turning it into beautiful adornments.

Though i have posted several of my jewelry designs on this blog there are many more creations available for sale. I spend more time creating than posting. One day I will get around to making a website so you can purchase online...Until then, please view photos of my designs by clicking on the slideshow above.

I have a variety of styles of jewelry ranging from everyday wear, to night-on-the-town and rock & roll bohemian chic. It you love silver, gemstones and well crafted unique designer jewelry, then Vine Design is a great source for your jewelry collection!

Want to create your own jewelry? I teach metal techniques and basic jewelry design in my studio in the San Francisco Bay Area. My current schedule is listed on the right side of my site. Please e-mail me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com

Transforming my Studio for a Jewelry Show

2011-11-05T17:32:00.000-07:00

Just finished setting up my studio for a jewelry show. Its exhausting but worth it! Watch this video clip to see how I did it.

Photo Session Maddness

2011-11-02T13:24:00.000-07:00

Am getting ready for a show. Enjoying taking and editing photos.

2011-08-31T22:34:00.000-07:00

Saw a link today about my PMC submissions (see pic below)on CraftGossip.com What fun! The bottom left pieces was selected for publication in the PMC Guild 2011 Annnual. Sadly this is the last year they will be publishing the Annual.

jewelrymaking.craftgossip.com

PMC Guild Submissions 2011

2011-05-09T22:27:00.000-07:00

I have been working dutifully in my studio finishing up projects, taking photos and editing them for submission to PMC Guild's Annual Publication for 2011. I pray that a few of my pieces are selected this year! Will find out in August sometime.

Chunky Amethyst Ring

2011-05-04T12:52:00.000-07:00

This ring started as a vision a few months ago. I used wax to make a mock up of the stone so i could account for shrinkage in the PMC. I love the weight of this and the rustic quality with such a beautiful stone.

Firing A Bronze Clay Cuff

2011-04-13T15:14:00.000-07:00

I am revisiting Bronz Clay now that the price of silver continues to rise. With a little help from my friend Norma i was able to successfully fire this behemoth of a cuff so it is nice and strong. At first I tried firing in "Magic Carbon" at 1525 degrees for 2 hours just like the package said with no success. Then I tried at 1550 for two hours. No success. Norma's trick worked. I ramped my kiln to 500 degrees per hour to 1525 and held for 2.5 hours. Took about 6 hours total to fire but it was worth the wait. Now all i need to do is add a little interest to the piece with some Precious Metal Clay and perhaps a stone. Will post the finished product later... now to cleaning my studio so I can clear my mind and get to the creativity.

Rock and Roll Bohemian Chic

2011-03-29T10:27:00.001-07:00

Am working on photos for my website. Went with a friend to Rancho San Antonio Park for a photo shoot yesterday. It was a gorgeous day. Love the outdoors after the rain.

Creative Women Make Gorgeous Rings!

2011-03-07T16:30:00.000-08:00

There are a many reasons I teach. Number one is beacause I get to hang out with new people. Number two is when people enjoy the creative process. Todays class was a blast AND my students walked away satisfied with their creations. What a way to spend a Saturday!

Rings that make you go....WOW!

2011-03-07T16:25:00.000-08:00

Here are the finished rings!

Making a Collection of Jewelry

2011-02-25T12:54:00.000-08:00

I love varitey. After all isn't variety supposed to be the spice of life? Unfortunately my love for variety has caused me to design jewelry in styles that vary all over the map. Many of my customers love that as people's tastes vary. As I look forward, my desire is to simplify my life, to have a cohesive design style. One that pleases me and tickles others fancy. I think I am getting there. Here are two designs that use one of my favorite stones ... smoky quartz..and some of my newly hand crafted fine silver components.

Fun in the Studio

2011-02-20T14:33:00.001-08:00

Lately I have been rethinking what the focus of my jewelry business should be. I love to create AND I love to teach. Honesty, I get the best of both worlds offering instruction. Yesterday I gave a class to two wonderful people. Brenda Levine, a long-time beader created the beautiful pendants in the middle. Amy Peters long-time metalsmith and jewelry designer, who also shares a history teaching at The Bead Shop in Palo Alto, created the whimsical pendants to the left. www.amypetersstudio.com

Ladies, you make my job fun!

Bird on a Wire

2011-01-29T17:45:00.000-08:00

This bird necklace was made with one of my favorite Photopolymer Plates. After I polished and patined the square pendant, I dapped it which gave it a nice curve. Still, I felt it needed something else to add interest. Luckily I remembered a mould I made of a coral branch. I pressed metal clay into it, let it dry and added texture with a blade. I pushed some eyelets into the ends so I could hang the branch on a chain. Attached the pendant to the silver branch. and I am happy with the results.....

Jewelry Show Thursday Dec. 9th 7-9pm and Friday Dec. 10th 10am-12lpm

2010-12-01T00:12:00.000-08:00

Click on the green link below to view show details

http://new.evite.com/?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=fb_share_widget&utm_content=fb_link&utm_campaign=invite#view_invite:eid=0168AARBS

ZI3CIKC4EO766HUI5QBEQ&gid=fb

For pictures of my studio converted into a showroom click here: http://picasaweb.google.com/virginiahuffman/VineDesignJewelryShow?locked=true#

From Line Art to Jewelry. Making a Photopolymer Plate for Precious Metal Clay

2010-11-20T22:08:00.000-08:00

I am crazy about Photoplymer Plates -- you could say addicted. You can take almost any line drawing and make it into silver jewelry. I recently had a student, Mark Reynolds, from Northern Canada take a private session. He creates jewelry with a wildlife theme. Visitors travel to his cold corner of the world to see bears and he makes memorable jewelry for them to take home as a reminder of their visit.

Mark came to our session with a design he wanted to make from a linocut he made in a class at 3FishStudios in San Francisco. He reduced his image to a workable size for jewelry and this image was made into a plate that is similar to a stamp but much crisper. The Precious Metal Clay was then pressed into the prepared plate, shaped and fired. To see the steps to the process, check out the following link on my online Picasso album http://picasaweb.google.com/virginiahuffman/PPPProcessMarkReynolds?locked=true

I was Featured on Craft Gossip

2010-11-15T22:06:00.000-08:00

Ever do a google search for yourself? C'mon admit it! I just did. And what did I find? A post about my work and a wonderful promo about my classes. The world wide web is an interesting place to get the "hook up" Here is the direct link http://jewelrymaking.craftgossip.com/learn-about-pmc/2010/09/18/ For my 2011 class schedule, open the document on the right of this web page. To register please contact me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com or 650-630-6061.

Featured on Art Jewelry Mag Editor's Blog

2010-11-08T15:57:00.000-08:00

Just got an e-mail that one of my pieces was featured on an online blog to a magazine I subscribe to. Wow!! Have a peek.

http://cs.artjewelrymag.com/artcs/blogs/artjewelry/2010/11/08/highlights-from-the-subscriber-gallery-final-round-12-addie-choice.aspx

Precious Metal Clay and Resin Class

2010-11-06T16:47:00.000-07:00

In this Intro Class, students made wondefully creative jewelry. Its always fun for me to introduce people to the wonders of metal clay and see how each student incorporates their own designs and ideas. To view more pictures of this class and students work click on the following link http://picasaweb.google.com/virginiahuffman/20101105PMCAndResinClass?feat=directlink

Gold on Precious Metal Clay

2010-10-27T22:03:00.000-07:00

Just finished a fun two part class which added 22k Gold to pure silver. The results were stunning and students went away very happy and energized. Love that! We decided that oxidizing the silver portion of the pieces really made the gold "pop". Mixed metal is in and we are so thrilled.

To view more photos of this class, click on the pic below

2010-10-26 PMC and Gold Class

The New PMC Guild Annual Is Finally Here

2010-10-26T15:52:00.000-07:00

Ever since my "Do-Si-Do" bracelet with Picasso Jasper stones was selected for publication in this years PMC Guild Annual I have anxiously been checking my mailbox for it's arrival. And it finally came today. I am so elated. I remind myself of Steve Martin's child-like character in a scene in the movie The Jerk. When Navin received the latest edition of the local phone book, he ran down his driveway holding it shouting, "The new telephone book is here, the new telephone book is here...and now I'm in it"

So, I am beaming with joy..."The new PMC Guild Annual is here...and now I'm in it!" Page 92 to be exact. : )

Silver and Gold. 22K Gold on Precious Metal Clay. LOVE IT!

2010-10-20T22:42:00.000-07:00

We've got the Midas touch. Had session one tonight of my Gold on Precious Metal Clay. Here are the results of my demo. The leaf on the left was painted with Aura 22 which is 22k gold. I oxidized it for that oh so wonderful look. The gold touches on the right were done with Art Clay Gold Paste. The students pieces are in the kiln as I post. Everyone is excited to apply the gold to their creatons next week. Will post more pictures then.

On Wings Like Angels

2010-10-13T22:25:00.000-07:00

I usually detest reconstiting bone dry clay. It's so lumpy and I often have a big mess on my hands. Took this sticky mush and pushed it into my angel wings mould. Took it out an it had a very interesting surface design. giving this piece an ancient look. Added a halo with fine silver and dropped a wire wrapped crystal quartz and am sporting it around town.

New Displays

2010-10-12T18:55:00.000-07:00

After years of using black velvet for my displays, I decided I needed a change. Not that I had time or money for an upgrade but once i got the idea in my head I went to work. I have to say I was inspired by my bird displays and the latest Restoration Hardware catalogue. Love the look of crisp linen, white on white, bronze metal and vintage peeled paint decor. Lucked out and found some discarded frames by the side of the road and some barn wood at my dad's ranch. All i needed was a few cans of spraypaint and many hours later....

Norma Created a Beauty!

2010-09-29T21:37:00.000-07:00

Student Norma Fries of www.notyourmothersjewelry.com made this gorgeous pendant in my stone setting class. Unfortunately the firey Larbadorite stone broke prior to setting so Norma made an additional piece (smoothe portion on the right hand side) which covered the broken part and made the piece more interesting overall. Hats off to Norma.

Chasing and Repousse Project

2010-09-20T16:34:00.000-07:00

Sporting this grande cuff after working on in for 15 hours in a class I took this weekend. It was a tedious but interesting process. The cuff is made of sterling silver and is oxidized. The instructor was Davide Bigazzi who is a local jewelry artist in Menlo Park.

Hearts Desire Turquoise and Fine Silver Reversible Necklace

2010-08-25T19:33:00.000-07:00

This was a fun though time-consuming project. The beauty of this necklace is that it can be worn on both sides making it ever so versatile. The all silver heart was made with a special texture I made from a photopolymer plate. The Turquoise stone had been waiting for me to set it since he last gem show. The wire wrapped smoky quartz stones finish it off on a beautiful hand hammered artisan chain.

A pair of earrings to go with Hearts Desiire Necklace

2010-08-25T19:24:00.000-07:00

I've been Selected! PMC Annual 2010

2010-08-24T22:46:00.000-07:00

Just got an e-mail today from Tim McCreight saying my bracelet made with PMC and Picasso Jasper will be included in the PMC Annual. I am elated and so honored!

Do-Si-Do Picture II

2010-08-24T22:45:00.000-07:00

Precious Metal Clay CLASSES September 2010-December 2010

2010-08-22T22:51:00.001-07:00

Below is a brief overview of my current class schedule. For more details please open the PDF attachment on the right column of my blog. To register please contact me at 650-630-6061 or virginiahuffman@gmail.com. Thank You. Virginia

SEPTEMBER

PMC Open Studio: Wed evenings 6pm-9pm Sept. 1,8

Photopolymer Plates Intensive: A three-hour day session Thursday Sept. 9:30am-12:30pm

Stone Setting for Non-Fireable Stones in Precious Metal Clay: A three session class: Wednesday evenings: September 15th, 22nd, and 29th 6pm-9pm

Precious Metal Clay Charms and Beads: A three session class on Thursdays from 10am-1pm September. Sept. 16th, 23rd, 30th 10am-1pm

OCTOBER

PMC Open Studio: Wed evenings 6pm-9pm Oct. 6,13

Photopolymer Plates and Moulds: A three session class: Thursdays 10am-1pm Thursdays October 14th, 21st and 28th 10am-1pm

Earring Extravaganza with Precious Metal Clay: Sat. Oct. 9th 10am-4pm

Get the Midas Touch! Learn how to add gold to PMC: A two-session class Wednesday Evenings 6pm-9pm. Wednesday, October 20th and 27th 6pm-9pm

NOVEMBER

Fine Silver Linked Bracelet: A three Session Class: Thursdays from 10am-1pm Nov 4, 11, 18 10am-1pm

Mould Making and Creative Connecting Components: Something Old Into Something New: A three session class: Wednesday sessions in November: Nov 3rd, 10th, 17th 6-9pm

Precious Metal Clay and Resin: Saturday November 6^th 10am-4pm. Create a double sided metal clay pendant with a cut out to incorporate an image or design with resin.

DECEMBER

PMC Open Studio: Wed evenings 6pm-9pm Dec. 1,8,15

PMC on Recycled Leather Belts

2010-08-21T12:02:00.000-07:00

So it looks like i am on a roll with bracelets this week. Just finished the bracelet in the top pic. The front of the bracelet is in the second photo (bottom left ).

What is Precious Metal Clay? PMC

2010-08-20T22:29:00.000-07:00

What is PMC by Virginia Huffman

Bracelets!

2010-08-20T12:07:00.000-07:00

Here is my bracelet "wardrobe". My TOP must have's. Great worn alone or paired up with another.

This Just In!

2010-08-04T22:58:00.000-07:00

Fun and Chunky Linked Bracelet. Love how it feels on my wrist.

I wanna Fly...Fly...Fly...

2010-05-18T19:32:00.000-07:00

Gorgeous Wing Medalion on Luscious Leather. Yum!

Flying Bird Clasp

2010-05-14T20:00:00.000-07:00

Once again -- have been dreaming of this clasp for weeks. I just finished it and am adding it to a bracelet with my bird theme.

Crazy for Vintage, Antique Buttons and Buckles

2010-04-17T22:48:00.000-07:00

Besides Presious Metal Clay I am obsessed with finding Antique and Vintage Buttons, Buckles with interesting designs and motifs. I can not stop...but I must.. I have to make moulds of these beauties so I can incorporate these designs into my work. Insomnia to follow for sure. Pictured are some of my latests finds.

Work in Progress Completed!!...

2010-04-16T23:00:00.000-07:00

Time flies when you have other things on your To Do list...other than making jewelry. After a few weeks i am happy to say its ready to wear! Now back to the dishes.....

A Work in Progress...

2010-04-16T22:42:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I have so many things to do ie etsy sales, classes, class planning fulfilling custom orders and regular mommy life that I have fun projects left laying around my studio. This is one of them. I figured if I posted it I would be obligated to finish it. I made moulds of a vistorian buckle that I got on ebay. I cut it apart, made a mould. Pressed in some PMC, added some catches on the back to hold the chain and stones in place...I will unveil the finished product as soon as it is finished!

Creating with Photopolymer Plates and Moulds IS FUN!!

2010-03-31T17:20:00.001-07:00

Love when I have a vision of something and it comes out the way I imagined it! Am thinking I need to add some gold to make the bird stand out more. I'm gonna make a series of these.

Obsessed with Photopolymer Plates!!

2010-03-31T16:26:00.000-07:00

Just cant stop making these babies!! They are so beautiful and so easy to make. I think tonight I will be dreaming about what I can create with them!! I have some for sale on etsy -- see the link to my etsy shop in the right column.

The orangy stuff in the picture is a childhood favorite; silly putty. Its a great way to see how the plates will read in PMC before making a commitment in metal clay.

Rings ...Rings and More Rings

2010-03-23T22:12:00.000-07:00

These beauties were just finished tonight by seven wonderful and fun students. Bet they will proudly show them off tomorrow...and the next day.

PMC Powers Unite!

2010-03-22T21:32:00.000-07:00

I love teaching! Its great to meeting fun people and creating together. Last Saturday I had the pleasure of hanging out with TK, Julie, Vickie, Norma and Linda. To see what a great time we had, making PMC and fusing fine silver, click on the picture below:

2010-03-19 Class PMC and Fusing Linked Bracelet

Koi and Iris Double Sided Pendant by Rosemary Lanyon

2010-03-20T16:44:00.000-07:00

This pendant is gorgeous! Am excited to post my student's wonderful creations. This one was done by Rosemary Lanyon in the Photopolymer Plate and Box Pendant session last month.

On a Wing and A Prayer

2010-03-17T22:31:00.000-07:00

Lately I have been trying to help a friend find a job and a car. I am reminded that we do not have to do this on our own that the Good Lord Above has us in his care and he is watching over us. This piece gives me peace knowing He will take care of her -- all we need to do is reach out an pray!!

Putting it All Together

2010-03-17T10:42:00.000-07:00

I have so many fun silver beads and charms I have created waiting to be "hooked up" with other pieces. Last night I was inspired to string and knot them with leather cord paired with my all time favorite stone; turquoise. Love the way it feels on my wrist.

Fun Vintage Charms

2010-03-13T21:01:00.000-08:00

Have been having fun making these charms and pendants from Vintage and Antique Victorian Buttons. Am shipping some to The Beads Shop to be sold on their online store www.beadshop.com. Am also selling way fun moulds from my vast button collection on my etsy shop. See my link on the right top side of my postings to view them. I have a million and one ideas for these babies swirling in my head...will I ever rest???

Mermaid Bracelet and Clasp

2010-03-12T22:26:00.000-08:00

I wire wrapped these beads and pearls on the way to Point Reyes one weekend. It originally had a manufactured toggle clasp. The pearls and the colors reminded me of the sea.....so away I went in my studio and made this mermaid clasp to finish it off. When I wear it I want to be somewhere on the seashore.

Crazy for Birds and Wire Wrapped Stones

2010-03-12T11:26:00.000-08:00

Love the bird theme lately. Finished this for a friend with wire wrapped rubies, mauve pearls and fine silver beads.

Vine Design Jewelry

2010-02-24T22:00:00.001-08:00

To view more of my work click on my Picassa album link Picasa Web Albums - Vine Design Jewelry
For a listing of my classes in 2010 scroll down

PMC CLASSES FEB-APRIL 2010

2010-02-24T08:59:00.000-08:00

WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON SESSIONS 1pm-4pm
Intro to PMC Workshop: Wednesdays March 3, 10, 17 and 24th 1pm-4pm
Advanced PMC Techniques Workshop: Photopolymer Plates, Mould Making, and Box Pendant Structure Wednesdays April 7,14,21,28 1pm-4pm
Advanced PMC Techniques Workshop – Links and Rings
Dates: Wednesdays May 5, 12, 19, and 26 1pm-4pm

WEDNESDAY EVENING: 6pm-9pm
Open Studio Every Wed. in March, April, May and on….

SATURDAY SESSIONS 10am-4pm
PMC Components with Fused Links March 20th 10am-4pm
PMC Hollow Links: April 24th 2010. 10am-4pm

For more detailed info on classes scroll down this page.
TO REGISTER FOR ANY OF THESE CLASSSES, please contact me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com or call 650-630-6061. I hope you can join our creative community as we create fabulous jewelry together.

FUTURE CLASSES TBA
Gold on Fine Silver Get the Midas Touch! Add a bit of Gold to your PMC In this class you will learn how to bond gold to fine silver with the Keum Boo technique and Aura 22.
PMC Rivets and Resin. Make fun and colorful pendants or jewelry components with resin and imbedded images or small pmc trinkets. Add more interest by adding textured copper or fine silver windows with rivets.

Student Reviews for Virginia's Precious Metal Clay Instruction

2010-02-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

"Virginia is very knowledgeable and always very helpful, regardless of your level of expertise. I’ve taken a lot of her classes over the past 2+ years and have never once been disappointed! I was a beginner PMC’er when I took my first class with her and have learned a lot and have become pretty good with PMC techniques under her guidance, I’d highly recommend any of her classes, always fun too!" TK Sommers

"Great teacher and great projects" Denise Lee
"Tries to gear open classes to your interests." Martina Lavelle
"I learned so much! " Mallory Stevens
"Gifted and informative teacher" Lucinda Bender

PMC Bracelet with Fused Links Sat. March 20th 10am-4pm

2010-02-23T23:55:00.000-08:00

PMC Bracelet with Fused Links
Make beautifully detailed and textured fine silver links and link them together with fine silver wire. Students will learn the basics of PMC (form, fire and finish) as well as the art of fusing sivler wire (cutting and forming links, and fusing with a torch, and linking components)
Level: Beginner to Intermediate Students
Date: Saturday March 20th 2010 from 10am-4pm
Class Fee: $95
Materials Fee: $60 for 1 ft fine silver wire, jump rings, and PMC.
Items to bring to class: Notebook and silver chain if you would prefer to lengthen your project to wear as a necklace.
Class Location: PMC Design Studio, Redwood City, CA (45 minutes South of San Francisco)
To register contact me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com or call 650-630-6061

Creating with Precious Metal Clay; An INTRODUCTION to PMC March 2010 Wed. 1-4pm

2010-02-23T23:50:00.000-08:00

Creating With Precious Metal Clay Workshop
Dates: Wednesdays March 3, 10, 17 and 24th 1pm-4pm
Cost: $140 (instruction, use of tools and kiln firing)
Materials Fee: Starts at $90 for 2 packs of PMC 3, 2 cubic zirconias and other consumables. More PMC will be available for purchase in class.
Student level: Beginner to Intermediate
This four week course will introduce you to the wonders of Precious Metal Clay. You will learn how to form, fire and finish with four projects designed to build your abilities and confidence with this flexible and fun medium.
Projects covered include simple pendants with bails, jewelry components, stone setting of kiln fireable stones, and hollow forms.

Students are encouraged to make jewelry expressing their own personal design styles and are offered one on one attention by the instructor.

A plethora of tools are textures are available for use in class.

To register for this class, contact me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com or call 650-630-6061. We hope you can join us.

Photopolymer Plates, Box Making and Mouldmaking Wednesday's 1pm-4pm April 2010

2010-02-23T23:45:00.000-08:00

Advanced PMC Techniques Workshop
Dates: Wednesdays April 7, 14, 21, 28 1pm-4pm
Cost: $140 (instruction, use of tools and kiln firing)
Materials Fee: Starts at $120 for 2 packs of PMC 3, mould materials, photopolymer plates and other consumables. More PMC will be available for purchase in class.
Student level: Students who have taken Intro to PMC and Intermediate Level students

This four week course will take your PMC designs and abilities to a new level.
as you continue to create with PMC using new techniques.

Techniques covered include Photopolymer Plates, Box Making and Mouldmaking.

Students are encouraged to make jewelry expressing their own personal design styles and are offered one on one attention by the instructor.

A plethora of tools are textures are available for use in class.

Links and Rings. Advanced PMC Projects. Wednesdays 1pm-4pm MAY 2010

2010-02-23T23:40:00.000-08:00

Advanced PMC Techniques Workshop – Links and Rings
Dates: Wednesdays May 5, 12, 19, 26
Cost: $140 (instruction, use of tools and kiln firing)
Materials Fee: Starts at $90 for 2 packs of PMC 3 and other consumables. More PMC will be available for purchase in class.

Student level: Students who have taken Intro to PMC and Intermediate Level students

This four week course will take your PMC designs and abilities to a new level.
as you continue to create with PMC using new techniques.

Techniques covered include: Chain Making aka PMC Links and PMC Rings

PMC Open Studio Wednesday Nights WEEKLY 6-9pm

2010-02-23T23:35:00.000-08:00

PMC Open Studio Wednesday Nights 6-9pm Weekly
MARCH, APRIL MAY,JUNE and on....
Studio time is available for those who have taken at least 12 hours of instruction in metal clay by Virginia or other qualified instructor. Studio tools & textures are available for you to practice and explore your creativity with Precious Metal Clay. Virginia will be available to assist you with your projects. You will learn many new techniques as you build your PMC knowledge and skills. Open Studio sessions include firing. Cost: $30 per session or $75 for three consecutive sessions. Bring your own PMC or buy some from Virginia. To register, please contact me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com or 650-630-6061

PMC Hollow Links Saturday May 15th 10am-4pm

2010-02-23T23:25:00.000-08:00

Date: May 15th 2010. 10am-4pm
Class Description: Make funky chunky links! Attach links to one another to create a unique bracelet or a necklace, a pendant and/or matching earrings. WOW! You will have people asking you where you got this beauty! And you can tell them, “I made it!”
This class will cover how to make hollow links which will look heavy but be light AND use less clay. Students finished products will vary depending on students output and use of clay.
Cost: $95 for instruction, use of tools and kiln firing
Materials fee: $ 90 includes a 45 gram pack of PMC3 and other consumables. Bring 12-18 inches of chunky chain and clasp to finish off your designs.
Student Level: Intermediate to Advanced Students

PRIVATE PMC INSTRUCTION

2010-02-22T09:30:00.000-08:00

Can't make a scheduled class? Have a specific technique or project in mind? Then sign up for one-on-one PMC instruction.Classes I teach include Intro to PMC, Rings, Earrings and Earring Components, PMC and Resin, Photopolymer Plates, Mould Making, PMC Hollow Linked Chain, Riveting with PMC Carving rubber rubber stamps , Stone Setting for PMC, Hollow Forms, PMC chain, Lentil Beads, Fun with PMC Paper, PMC Photo Pendant, Clasps and Toggles, Gold on PMC, and Copper Clay.

Sessions are $45 per hour plus materials. To schdule a session or chat with Virginia contact her by phone 650-630-6061 or e-mail virginiahuffman@gmail.com

What is PMC?

2010-02-20T19:51:00.000-08:00

Precious Metal Clay (PMC) is a revolutionary material developed and patented by Mitsubishi Materials of Japan. It is pure powdered gold or silver sprayed with an organic binder then combined with water to form a non-toxic clay which can be molded and sculpted much like regular clay. Once fired, it will yield a pure, solid gold or silver object. Natural as well as high quality synthetic gems can be cast & and fired with this marvelous medium. PMC + your imagination = unending creative possibilities.

For more details on PMC visit the PMC Guild.

Pictures of PMC Design Studio

2010-02-20T10:15:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures of my creative oasis.

A Bit About Me

2010-02-20T10:04:00.000-08:00

I was blessed with creative parents. My mother is an oil painter, and my father can make just about anything. There were always plenty of art supplies, tools and materials available for me to explore.

Over the years, I’ve worked with a variety of media like photography, beading, bookbinding, painting, pottery and collage. While I enjoyed all of these, I kept looking for the one creative outlet that would hold my attention. When I discovered Precious Metal Clay (PMC), I was fascinated. I took my first class and immediately became hooked making beautiful fine silver jewelry from this wonder clay. A year later I took a PMC certification class and started teaching at The Bead Shop in Palo Alto, CA in 2007. I had such a great time meeting other creative people and sharing the wonders of working with Precious Metal Clay. When the Bead Shop closed, I decided to open up my home studio for instruction.

I am currently working on mixed metal jewelry. I love etching copper and using cold connections like riveting to attach to either sterling silver or fine silver components. I recently started fusing gold onto silver with Keum Boo and Aura 22 is also a new adventure for me.

Cool Breeze Personalized Bracelet

2010-02-20T09:36:00.000-08:00

Made this for a customer to give to a friend to commemorate her online store "TASHI" which opened 11.15.09. I handcrafted each of the silver components which made this bracelet extra special.

Tashi sells beautiful lingere!! Oooh la la. You must visit.

Hey You....Off of My Cloud!

2010-02-19T10:53:00.000-08:00

Every have one of those days? Then you've got to EXPRESS YOURSELF with PMC.
I made this pendant with a photopolymer plate. This is a great way to share your favorite quote, sentiment or lyrics to your favorite song.

Photopolymer Plate Class Participants

2010-02-06T16:38:00.000-08:00

Today's Photopolymer Plate Class was a blast. Everyone made such fun designs to use in their PMC creations. Can't wait to see the beautiful jewelry people make with them.

Click on this link to see a slideshow of the session. You can see what people made and how rewarding the process is. PPP Class Photos

Stephanie's Gorgeous Necklace

2010-02-02T22:20:00.000-08:00

Whoo Hoo! Miss Stephanie just finished this gorgeous creation tonigh! Congrats Stephanie -- wear it with pride!!

Vine Design Jewelry

2010-02-01T23:55:00.000-08:00

Please double click on this picture to get a glimpse of some of my creations.

Carved Heart Mould

2010-02-01T12:47:00.000-08:00

So this morning I was making some moulds with my favorite mould making material. I realized how easy it is to carve. So with Valentine's Day in mind, I pulled out a wooden heart and pressed it into the mould. When set, I carved out the word "Love" with my razor sharp Dockyard carving tool. And Presto! Insta cool mould. Put some PMC Standard in the newly created mould so my silver comes out 27% smaller. Now its time to go into the kiln. Just in time to tell a friend how much they mean to me.

A Message from Above

2010-02-01T12:12:00.000-08:00

I wish I had more time in the day to finish projects that inspire me. Today I finished my copper angel wings and message that reminds me that God's Angels ARE watching over me and protecting me. Wings are made of copper clay and the chain is fine silver.

More Pictures of My Designs

2010-02-01T11:50:00.000-08:00

Stunning Coral Design Earrings

2010-01-28T15:29:00.000-08:00

I love, love, love this texture. Works well with this shape for earrings. Got to wear them tonight.

Intro to Precious Metal Clay (PMC) in the San Francisco Bay Area Jan. 16th 10-1

2010-01-06T17:38:00.001-08:00

Get hooked on Precious Metal Clay! Learn to make fine silver jewelry with PMC. This revolutionary medium is an easy entrée to metal work as well as a new addition to your metalsmithing repertoire. In this class you will learn the basics of PMC (forming, firing, and finishing). Student projects include pendants & charms.
Date; Saturday January 16, 2010 10:00am-1:00pm
Level: Beginner

Cost: $45
Materials Fee: starting at $30 for one pack of PMC 3 (16 grams)and depends on each student's design selection. More PMC may be purchase in class. Tools provided for use in class.

Class Location: PMC Design Studio in Redwood City

To register please e-mail me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com or call 650-630-6061

Photopolymer Plates for PMC February 6th, 2010

2010-01-06T17:36:00.001-08:00

Learn to incorporate your design or line drawing into metal clay with Photopolymer Plates (PPP's). PPP's have been traditionally used in the printing industry to create images or words onto paper. Using them with PMC is similar to using rubber stamps BUT the design is your own. Turn a photo into a line drawing and Viola! You can now use this to make a beautiful piece of silver jewelry. In this session we will spend time making plates and then using them with some PMC to make gorgeous one of a kind jewelry.

Date: Saturday February 6th 2010 from 10am-4pm
Cost: $95
Materials Fee: $15 for unexposed plates. Bring your own PMC or buy some in class.
Class Location: PMC Design Studio, Redwood City, CA (45 minutes South of San Francisco)
To register contact me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com or call 650-630-6061

How to USE RESIN...What I learned from Linda

2010-01-04T14:08:00.000-08:00

This is a photo of one of my regulars, Linda Cullen who attends the WED. NIGHT OPEN STUDIOS Sessions. She has been going crazy making resin pendants at home withe a Doming Resin product. Although the results have been beautiful, the resin has wreaked havoc on her skin. She is now fully outfitted with mask and gloves so that she can continue the resin madness. Warning: Don't go out in public like this...people may think there has been a nuclear accident in your local area and you may frighten small children.

Moral of the story: READ all caution labels of chemical products and use with caution. Use in a well ventillated area and in moderation. Do not let resin cure in areas where you sleep or eat.

Some of My Latest Designs

2009-11-16T22:40:00.000-08:00

All You Need are RINGS!!!

2009-11-15T23:59:00.001-08:00

Rings are fun to make and fun to wear!! Bottom ring band reads "All You Need is Love" (for those Beatles fanss!) and a very cool textured stirrup ring with a smoky quartz!

More Jewelry Created by Virginia Huffman

2009-11-15T23:59:00.000-08:00

Way Cool Silver Rings Created by Students

2009-11-15T19:44:00.000-08:00

Had a blast today with students in my Precious Metal Clay PMC Rings Class. They created such beautiful treasures!!

Fine Silver Rings Class Students

2009-11-15T19:41:00.000-08:00

I love teaching! I especially love working with such fun people as these. Loved that everyone's creations came out so beautifully and people left with a sense of satisfaction!

Textured Bracelet

2009-11-14T15:04:00.000-08:00

I made this beauty just before Christmas. I had an idea and went to town making all the components. It was satisfying making my own clasp from PMC instead of putting on a manufactured one!!

Lilly Pad Ring with Sterling and Copper

2009-11-14T15:03:00.000-08:00

Just completed this in a cool riveting class this past weekend. It's so fun to wear!

Turquoise, Pearls and Silver

2009-10-29T14:50:00.000-07:00

This is a fun everyday necklace!! Perfect for fall or summer.

Chic Holiday Boutique Morgan Hill Sat. Nov. 21st 10-3

2009-10-26T23:20:00.000-07:00

My friend Tracey Morris who is responsible for giving me a venue a few years ago to sell my jewelry is hosting a Holiday Boutique. So if you are in the area and can stop by -- there are bound to be some beautiful items to buy. This is no ordinary boutique! And you can see whats new by Vine Design.

PMC Classes

2009-10-12T15:13:00.000-07:00

PMC Rings Saturday November 21st 10am-4pm

You will learn two ring styles in one day! We will start off with my favorite: The Stirrup Ring which will be topped off with your favorite bead or stone. After that we will make a ring band embellished with PMC Paper . Class fee: $95 plus $65 materials fee for PMC3 and PMC Paper. Bring a bead or stone or buy one in class. To resigister for this session please contact instructor at virginiahuffman@gmail.com or 650-630-6061. Class is located in Redwood City, CA 45 minutes south of San Francisco.

WED NIGHT Open Studio 6pm-9pm
Studio time is available students who have taken at least 6 hours of instruction in metal clay by Virginia or other qualified instructor. Studio tools & textures are available for you to practice and explore your creativity with Precious Metal Clay. Each month we have a new project or technique focus. Past student projects include: PMC Links, Rings, Mould Making, Resin, Riveting on PMC. Cost: $30 per class or $75 for three consecutive sessions. Bring your own PMC or purchase in class.

PRIVATE PMC INSTRUCTION
Can't make a scheduled class? Have a specific technique or project in mind? Then sign up for one-on-one PMC instruction.Classes I teach include Intro to PMC, Rings, Earrings and Earring Components, PMC and Resin, Photopolymer Plates, Mould Making, PMC Hollow Linked Chain, Riveting with PMC Carving rubber rubber stamps , Stone Setting for PMC, Hollow Forms, PMC chain, Lentil Beads, Fun with PMC Paper, PMC Photo Pendant, Clasps and Toggles, Gold on PMC, and Copper Clay.

Sessions are $45 per hour plus materials. To schdule a session or chat with Virginia contact her by phone 650-630-6061 or e-mail virginiahuffman@gmail.com

CREATE INSPIRE DREAM

2009-09-28T10:22:00.000-07:00

This lovely bracelet was a commissioned piece for Janice Parsons owner of The Bead Shop. This bracelet is made of fine silver (from Precious Metal Clay) and the rivets are bronze.

More Finished Copper Clay Pieces

2009-09-19T22:03:00.000-07:00

These pieces are ready to assemble into something beautiful. I am going to have to make some out of BronzClay too!! Thats for next week when I am finished with two other projects.

Intro to Precious Metal Clay ...PMC Saturday October 10th 10-4pm

2009-09-19T15:17:00.001-07:00

Get hooked on Precious Metal Clay! Learn to make fine silver jewelry with PMC. This revolutionary medium is an easy entrée to metal work as well as a new addition to your metalsmithing repertoire. In this class you will learn the basics of PMC (forming, firing, and finishing). Student projects include pendants & charms. There will be a 45 minute lunch break. Bring a sack lunch.
Date; Saturday October 10th 10:00am-4:00pm
Level: Beginner
Cost: $95
Materials Fee: starting at $45 for one pack of PMC 3 and two CZ's. More PMC may be purchase in class depending on each student's design selection. Tools provided for use in class.

To register please e-mail me at virginiahuffman@gmail.com

Copper Clay is WONDERFUL!!

2009-09-19T15:15:00.000-07:00

WOW! I love the look of Copper Clay. It forms much like PMC Fine Silver -- the only difference for me so far is that it had to be fired in a stainless steel box in activated carbon for 3 hours at 1700 degrees ferenheit. I am tumbling more of the pieces. OH yes and the best benefit is the price only $20.00 for 100 grams!! Being silver is going up in price this is a good deal!!

Copper Clay Out of the Kiln

2009-09-19T15:12:00.000-07:00

Copper Clay out of the kiln looks like terra cotta. When I brushed it with soap, water and a brass prush it polished up beautifully. I love it!! C'est Manifique! On the angel pendamt above, I left the grooves unburnished so the design pops!

OH My Poor Kiln!!

2009-09-19T15:11:00.000-07:00

I was warned that my kiln would have black on the inside from the carbon AND it did! Now to vacuum it out!! The results were wortth the mess!!

Trying Out Copper Clay

2009-09-14T22:02:00.000-07:00

My first pack of Copper Clay just arrived today and I had a chance to make all the pieces showm from the packet and it was only $20. With silver prices increasing I think I am going to have to make more mixed metal pieces. also have some Bronze Clay. I bought it when it first came out but it seems more mysterious to me. Will have to try Bronze soon.

Will see how the firing goes withe the copper -- will post finished pieces when I get a chance.

Personalized Bracelet with Fine Silver on Leather

2009-09-14T22:00:00.000-07:00

ILYMTWCS "I love you more than words can say" Custom jewelry design.

Leather and Silver Bracelet

2009-09-14T21:51:00.000-07:00

Love how this turned out. A client saw an unfinished Fine Siver Bracelet I was working on and asked if I could add it to leather. I think I will have to make one for myself.

Gold on Precious Metal Clay (PMC)

2009-08-11T01:00:00.000-07:00

My latest experiment is adding gold to Precious Metal Clay with Aura 22 .. 22k gold and Keum Boo. The results are very satisfying!! Am loving the mixed metals look!!! So versatile!

PMC Open Studio Wednesday Nights WEEKLY 6-9pm

2009-07-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

PMC Open Studio Wednesday Nights 6-9pm Weekly (1/6/10, 1/13, 1/20, 1/27, 2/3, 2/10, 2/17, 2/24, 3/3, 3/10, 3/17, 3/24, 3/31)
Studio time is available for those who have taken at least 12 hours of instruction in metal clay by Virginia or other qualified instructor. Studio tools & textures are available for you to practice and explore your creativity with Precious Metal Clay. Virginia will be available to assist you with your projects. You will learn many new techniques as you build your PMC knowledge and skills. Open Studio sessions include firing. Cost: $30 per session or $75 for three consecutive sessions. Bring your own PMC or buy some from Virginia.

Intro to PMC Friday Aug 21st 6-9pm

2009-07-19T13:16:00.000-07:00

Intro to PMC Friday August 21st 6-9pm
Get hooked on Precious Metal Clay! Learn to make fine silver jewelry with PMC. This revolutionary medium is an easy entrée to metal work as well as a new addition to your metalsmithing repertoire. In this class you will learn the basics of PMC (forming, firing, and finishing). Student projects include pendants, charms and/or earrings in this 3 hour class you will learn the basics of PMC: FORM, FIRE & FINISH. Cost: $55 plus materials