I don't use a lot of tools, yet I have collected quite a few. There are certain times that one of these babies would make my job easier. Or perhaps I've taken a class and at the time, been totally convinced that I will be using that tool again in the future.Sometimes I design a bead, just so I can use a specific tool. It's like my own personal tool challenge. What would be a "Marcy" bead, if I used this one? Do you do that too?
And not being the most organized, (ha, that's an understatement), I keep a lot of my tools on my work table. The top photo shows that I stash them in a wide flower vase (vertical storage helps!) and in coffee cups.
My lower photo shows the tools that I have been using recently. The bottom one is one of the Leonardo Imprinters that I mentioned yesterday. Wanted to show you what they look like.
As you can see, my Stump Shaper has gotten quite a work out. I forget, and sometimes it migrates into my flame. The razor wiggles too much, but I still use it. I just need some fine lines sometimes.
The slotted paddle is similar to what Amy at Zoozi sells now. If you're doing sculptural beads that need to stand by themselves, I highly recommend it. It gives you an even surface, which is so helpful. I just checked and they are currently out of stock, but you could maybe make your own with a graphite marver and carving the slot.
These aren't all of my current favorites. I have others that just didn't make it into the photo.
What's in your tool box?
I like the look of the slotted paddle - I have a hard time getting beads to stand up straight!
ReplyDeleteSome of my favourite tools are dental picks, my favourite being a tiny spatula that is great for squishing dots. I just got some brass tools and am looking forward to seeing what I can do with them, or what they can do for me :D
New tools are FUN!
I like your storage system, Marcy. That's sincere, not just a little poke in the ribs because I'm also unorganized about storage. The thing is that when you are sculpting, you really do run into times when you think of just the perfect tool for that one particular shape/nudge/whatever you need. Having them all out where you can see them adds to the creative process!
ReplyDeleteFor me, having them out within arm's reach also can mean the difference between a bead not breaking from getting cold as I have to dash to where the rest of the tools are stored.
ReplyDeleteGenerally, before I start a bead, I think it through. I get out my glass and my tools that I think I'll need, but once in a while, some other idea pops into my head and off I go.
I’m having tool envy ; )) Don’t know if I have a favorite tool, but I can’t work with out my razor blade, butter knife, and old potato peeler. All my tools are handy but these I have to have laying out before I get started.
ReplyDeleteI have a collection of tools like you do, Marcy, but one of my favorites is a v-shaped pair of pliers. I am able to shape the bottom of hears very well with that.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.rosebud101-fortheloveofbeads.blogspot.com/
Great idea for a blog post. It was fun looking at your tools.
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