What is electroforming?

A lot of my pieces are done using a process called electroforming. What is electroforming, you might ask? Similar to electroplating, where a layer of one metal is plated over another metal, electroforming goes beyond simple metal on metal plating. By using electroconductive paint, an electric current, and copper solution bath, a thick layer of raw copper can be grown on just about any surface, including stones, organic materials, small toys, etc. (think bronzed baby shoes if you are old enough to remember these). The possibilities of what you can coat in metal are endless. The end result is solid, sturdier than the original, well detailed, and unique. I love nature, so some of my favorite things to Electroform are leaves, tree branches, shells, and fossilized sea organisms. I also love to use the technique to set raw gemstones in bezels that cling to every unique curve and angle. While the process is slow-it can take several hours to even days to develop the amount of thickness I want for the piece, I've found the result to be very durable-more so than prong settings that can easily catch on things or break. So, in summary, electroforming is a bit of alchemy combing chemistry, geology, and biology with a bit of creativity!
Want to see more of my Electroformed pieces? Check out my events page or FB page @lomostudiodesigns for local festivals/markets I will be attending to see my full collection in person. Want something unique created just for you? Just contact me, I love custom pieces! Have questions? Just ask!