Maria Langer | πππ΅π₯οΈI just signed up for a sandcasting class at the Tacoma Metal Arts Center. That's where I first learned a lot of the #silversmithing skills I've got. They have some really great classes. I've been wanting to try #sandcasting for a while.
@malte Are people still picking instances based on their location or interests? π€
I'm thinking they should be more interested in hashtags. That's how I find a lot of people involved in the arts I like to play around with. #bookbinding #silversmithing #PaperArts #reading #writing
I got started on the copper version of the sterling silver earrings I've been making for a few years now. I actually now make them in two lengths; the images shown are the longer ones which are about 2 inches, including the bead. I've never made them in copper before, but I have the materials so why not? I'll need to do the stamping in my mobile studio, which has a good steel block. The studio has a light but I don't like going outside the camper after dark here. Mosquitoes.π³ #silversmithing
Holy crap. Silver is down more than 30% today to under $80/ounce. If it can stay down there (or go even lower), there's hope for my #silversmithing business.π€π»
A friend just sent me this about the crazy rise in #silver prices: https://www.nytimes.com/2026/01/28/business/silver-gold-prices.html?unlocked_article_code=1.IFA.rcLY.I2L7aBifLxhq&smid=nytcore-android-share (gift article) #silversmithing
I did some quick math to see what it now costs to make several of my earring styles and I realized that I was selling them way too close to cost β to the point that I would lose money on wholesale and consignment sales β with current silver prices. I've had to increase the prices on everything silver that I make. #silversmithing
I'll do more work in copper in the months to come, but I think I should probably step away from the business for a while.
The price of silver is up $11 in two days. π³ #silversmithing
Silver is now more than $90 an ounce. This is crazy expensive for anyone who makes #jewelry with #silver.
In looking up the price, I saw a link for a video about silver pricing from Rio Grande, my supplier. What's neat about the video is it shows the one room I really wanted to see on the tour that they did not show: the metal cutting room.
Understanding Precious Metals Pricing at Rio Grande
The last two rings: Fire Opal and turquoise. I've made a total of 8 rings since coming to AZ. I'm keeping this turquoise one. #silversmithing
I've been working hard to "up my game" and create finer, better handcrafted jewelry products so I can get accepted into better, fine art shows. Unfortunately, people don't seem willing to pay for these items. Silver is more than $70/ounce now. I can't lower my prices and still make enough money to continue #silversmithing. But I also can't continue if I don't sell enough to cover the costs of these shows. I'm starting to rethink my strategy. (4/5)