I started working with metal about 6 months ago. After some safety instruction and a few tips from a welder friend, I simply grabbed the torch and some tools and began smashing and bashing and creating. I also read every single bit of info I could get my hands on, including some of the great info on this site. I learned through trial and (lots of) error making small pieces of copper jewelry which sold well at local art shows.

I have begun to feel somewhat limited making just jewelry, so when my daughter asked me to make her a metal mask to wear when she performs at a local renaissance faire, I was pretty excited to give it a try. It was a new adventure!

I'm happy with the results, I learned a few things while making it, and I can see that in the future I will want to make still larger pieces of art. I have a lot yet to learn, and want to improve my existing skills first, but this metal stuff is addictive!

The mask is sheet copper & wire, some beads and 2 small metal (steel?) flower shaped bits i found for the base of the 'horns'. Since it was to be worn, I lined the inside with some self-stick tooled felt material after sealing with renaissance wax (which I love).