ELSIE KAYE GLASSWORKS®
How it Works:
In March 2009, my fantastico husband and father-in-law built a studio for me in our home. It was truly a labor of love, and I have been enjoying the freedom to do my torch work on the weekends and in the evenings. Up until this point, I had done all of my glasswork at the New Street Glass Studio, which is part of the Worcester Center for Crafts in Massachusetts and then later, at a private studio at the Sprinkler Factory in Worcester. I also do all of my wirework and jewelry design in my home studio. A bit of information about the names of my pieces and collections…each is named after a state park in Massachusetts, Maryland, New Jersey and California—some that I have visited while living in these states, others that I hope to get to one day...
About the Materials:
I use Moretti/Effetre (soft) glass and a minor burner torch with a propane/oxygen setup at the studio. All of my beads are kiln-annealed to ensure durability and each bead is thoroughly cleaned of bead release. I incorporate an array of other materials and techniques into my glasswork, such as frit (crushed glass), silver foil, aventurine, raku and etching. In addition to my beads, I use sterling silver, Swarovski crystals, and semi-precious gemstones in my work.
Product Care:Sterling silver is a precious metal that typically oxidizes and tarnishes over time. The best way to clean your silver is to wipe it with a soft jewelry cleaning cloth. Jewelry cleaners should be avoided, as they can corrode semi-precious stones, which are incorporated into many of the pieces that I sell. Store your jewelry in a dark, airtight container (plastic baggies work well) if possible. Also, avoid wearing sterling silver in chlorinated water and do not allow harsh chemicals, such as hairspray, perfume, or household cleaners to come into contact with your silver or glass beads. Glass beads can be gently cleaned with soap and water, if necessary.