The Journey of Aaron Paul

I have always had a creative side and explored this through music and art throughout my life. While in university I had the privilege of living with a professional artist, David Delagardelle. His work conveys a Mythopoetic style through bladesmithing and other platforms of art. One of his biggest accomplishments is crafting Heimdall's sword, the guardian of Asgard, in the movie Thor. At the start of my journey he played a huge roll in my growth in crafting silver. He taught me the importance of how to heat and form different types of metals. He also gave me his grandmothers left over sterling silverware that sparked a passion for making quality spoon rings. A big thank you goes out to David!



Future Makers Learning the Trade

When creating a spoon ring you get to step back in time and explore the founders of silversmithing. Understanding the history and appreciating each piece of silverware is important. That is why I strive to continue in my knowledge of silverware makers and the marks that identify each piece of cutlery.

The spoons below come in a set of eight. Original made in 1928 by Reed and Barton. This "Harlequin" set of silver makes beautiful jewelry.



Before heating it is important to know where to cut and sand each piece. After I complete these steps the design, thickness, and durability guide me in the length of time heat should be applied. All of these skills take years of practice. It amazes me when I continue to find new ways to master each step.

After we heat the spoon I use a ring mandrel to form its shape. This allows me to change the size to uniquely fit each customer.

Next the spoon ring goes through stages of cleaning and polishing. Making sure it is cleaned well takes time and elegance.



Once the spoon is well polished it is ready to find a new home.

Finding the perfect antique for a lamp is not always easy. One of the adventures of the hunt is digging through old barns and sheds.

 

The first thing we do when creating a lamp is completely take it apart.



Next we clear all of the unnecessary wires.



Once all the wire is out we clean both inside and out being careful to preserve the antique patina.

Then we put together the lamp cluster and wire the lamp. This takes time and attention to detail.



Once the wiring is finished we carefully put the lamp pieces back together.



The use of spare parts are very useful and often get used to complete lamps.



After everything is done I go through a thorough inspection before adding the bulbs.



A few examples of finished lamps waiting for new homes.

My ultimate goal is for you to know that you are loved. You were created with unique talents and abilities. I wish I could sit down with each of you and share the many stories I have through exploring silversmithing, lamps, and antiques. If you have a chance I would love to meet you at one of my upcoming shows.