I was creating large copper embossed pictures way too many years ago. I found that I could use the copper as a mold in which I would pour about ¾ inch of plaster. I would then finish the plaster to look like the copper. I was selling this pictures in local gift shops.

This picture is around 18 by 36 inches.

I was looking for a more permanent medium to create theses pictures when I discussed the problem with my buddy, Dee Morris. He suggested I look into lost was casting. Needless to say I asked what the heck is lost wax casting.
After an explanation of the process Dee gave me a hunk of wax. I carved a buckle or bola and he cast it for me.
WOW!!! I had a way to create jewelry. I never created another copper picture.



ORIGINAL BUCKLE/BOLA


That led to a casting class with the Phoenix adult class. I found I could pour molten wax into the copper molds. I created a cowboy portrait buckle. I had it in a shop. A Doctor from New Jersey bought it and wanted to see all my work. By then I has seven designs. He ordered 10 each.



That was it. I was off and running and never looked back. I taught myself to solder, cut stones and make southwest jewelry. Eventually I added the pottery line.
By the way the original piece has been a bola and a buckle several times. I still have it and it is currently a buckle.