Jewelry, a Story of Community, Friendship, and Perseverance.
There is something about the community of jewelry makers that defies definition. It is as strong as family and its roots go as deep as oaks and blood and waters and history. The friendships I have made in this “family” over the years will last for the rest of my days, and the people who make up this community will stop at nothing to help one another. I was reminded of this fact this week when I posted a blog post where I had images of me polishing with gloves on, and the community came out in force. I have always harped about safety in jewelry making, that one mistake or lack of attention can be devastating. Polishing with gloves on was something I started doing a few years ago, always knowing that it was risky and paying particular attention to where my hands were at all times, but y’all have convinced me to toss the gloves in the trash and figure another way of keeping my fingers cool and clean.
This group is Awesome, thank you for your “calling me out”.
Thank you all!
Sincerely,
Doug
Hey Doug – I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate this post. The forum groups are not always kind and there are so many egos involved that disagreements and opposing views get really ugly at times. Really ugly. I think it’s human nature to react like you’ve been stung when somebody “calls you out”; to get defensive and/or back away and hide. You addressed this whole thing with a grace and kindness and not only diffused the controversy it could have become, but warmly hugged the entire community at the same time. I have to say I’m so very impressed by that. I don’t know you. I don’t know if you are just a zen master who goes through life with that kind of grace and care, but I admire it and aspire to it. Thanks for that, and thanks for this blog. You matter.
Wow! Christy, thank you so much! I try to leave my ego home most days. I don’t have it all figured out and if someone (or in this case many people) can give me constructive criticism, especially about something like safety, then I need to listen. The day I quit learning and think I have it all figured out is the day I become irrelevant. Thanks again.
Hi Doug,
How about finger cots, those glove-less leather finger covers? They will insulate from the heat and help keep fingers clean, but can get ripped off by spinning wheels without pulling the hand in. Or so I have heard. I’d love feedback on those. Although mine always seem to be missing. They don’t hang up like a pair of gloves. 🙂
I have tried those, but I like the “feel” of the jewelry while I am working on it. Sometimes I will use them if I am polishing multiple pieces.
Doug
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