Mad Hatter Cuff: A Fantastical Journey Through Design

Unleashing Surreal Dimensions in Jewelry

After successfully developing a process to translate her signature organic designs into a series of flat round pendants, Liz Sabol, the renowned designer behind Bead Lizzy, pushed the boundaries of her creativity with the Mad Hatter Cuff. This extraordinary piece of jewelry showcases the artist's ability to create a fantastical dimension on a grand canvas.

Measuring 71mm in width, 60mm in depth, and 62mm in height, the Mad Hatter Cuff is a true marvel. Crafted from 960 Sterling, a mix of PMC3 and PMC Sterling metal clay, this hand-painted and resined champleve cuff is adorned with an exquisite amethyst cabochon. Its wonderland-like design features a mesmerizing interweaving of flowing forms and colors, inviting the wearer to delve into a hierarchy of details and discover a new level of fantasia with every gaze.

Liz Sabol's creative process for the Mad Hatter Cuff is a testament to her dedication to craftsmanship. Starting with a sketch on paper, she meticulously refines the design on a computer, adding intricate details and refining the edges. To bring the design to life, Sabol cuts a mold of the design in Plexiglas using an etching laser. The silver clay is then formed in the plexiglass mold and fired in a kiln. Traditional techniques of forming, polishing, soldering, and stone setting are employed to create the final piece. The recesses of the cuff are meticulously hand-painted with oil paint, and the colors are sealed with resin, ensuring their permanence.

The challenges faced during the creation of the Mad Hatter Cuff were overcome through innovative solutions. Rolling out such a large piece of clay and obtaining a clean impression from the mold proved difficult, but with the discovery of a better release agent and reduced impression time, Sabol achieved the desired result. The curved surface of the cuff presented another challenge when applying the resin. To contain the resin within the wells, design elements were incorporated around the circumference of the cuff, creating boundaries that enhanced the overall aesthetic.

Worn on the wrist or lower forearm, the Mad Hatter Cuff is not only a stunning piece of jewelry but also a representation of mystical symbolism, nature, and fantasy. Vignettes of celestial bodies, elements, and organic life are intricately depicted, inviting the wearer to embark on a whimsical journey down the rabbit hole.

The Mad Hatter Cuff, a true testament to Liz Sabol's artistic vision and technical prowess, was awarded the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in 2016. This recognition is a testament to the cuff's well-designed, practical, and innovative nature, meeting professional and industrial requirements. It is a creation that integrates industry best practices and competent technical characteristics, providing fulfillment and positive feelings while contributing to a better world.

Image Credits: Liz Sabol, 2016

Intellectual Property Notice: Copyright Liz Sabol, Bead Lizzy, Liz Sabol Creative.