Time Lapse Process (6-7 Hours Condensed to >1min)
Process
Supplies
Spool of 26-28 gauge wire
Pre-drilled semi-precious stone beads
Base (stone, fossil, wood, etc.)
Pair of wire cutters
Pair of flat-head pliers
Industrial strength/flexible adhesive
Optional: sticky tack
For this example, I used 28 gauge, silver-plated wire for the tree, Moonstone for the leaves, and a Fossilized Sea Urchin for the base.
Steps
Straighten out wire and cut to desired length(s).
Attach leaves to end of each wire cutting.
Gather all of the pieces together and tightly twist together in the center (creating the trunk).
Optional: separate groups of wire at the stone end and gently twist major "branches" together (this can help make forming roots easier and more stable but potentially impede twisting the roots together smoothly).
Form the roots by progressively twisting smaller groups of wire.
Adhere the base of the wire trunk to the chosen base for the piece using industrial strength/flexible adhesive. Once securely set, adhere the rest of the roots to the base, working with the natural/organic shape and grooves of the base.
Trim excess wire from roots on base.
Twist groups of loose/stone end of wire into smaller and smaller groups (creating the branches) and arrange trunk and branches to maintain balance of the piece.
Common Questions
Q: How do you know how much wire you will need, what gauge to use, and how long to cut each piece?
The easy answer is: I don't, I have to guess. The longer answer: it depends on a number of factors, primarily the size and material of the base piece chosen.
Q: How many pieces of wire do you need to cut?
Again, this is something that I have to guess based on the gauge of wire, size of the base piece, etc.
Q: How long does it take you to make each piece?
This also depends on the size and surface of the base piece chosen (e.g., smaller and more porous base materials TYPICALLY take less time to make than larger and less porous ones); but I estimate an average range of at least 6-8 hours.
Q: How does pricing work?
In addition to the price of the base piece, stone leaves, and amount of wire used, the difficulty and complexity of adhering the roots is another major factor in the ultimate cost - as this strongly influences the amount of time needed to dedicate to the piece.
Q: What type of "industrial strength/flexible adhesive" do you use?
I'd prefer to keep some parts of my process to myself, as I'm still trying to earn a living; but if you happen to figure it out, good for you!
Q: Do you make custom pieces?
ABSOLUTELY! I genuinely love the challenges and rewards that come with commissioned work and would be more than happy to collaborate on my next project with you; don't hesitate to contact me!
Comments