This is my first attempt at a Tlingit style bracelet. It’s an AIA (Alaska Indian Arts) design and since I’m a frog I was instantly drawn to the design. Also this was the first time I’ve carved copper.

First bracelet attempt

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Here are a couple pair of Eagle earrings, a pair of Raven earrings and two matching pendants Raven and Eagle.

Eagle, Raven earrings and pendants

I was pushing hard the silver popped off and the graver grazed past my finger fast and barely got me

Close call

Things are moving along now and it feels good! Already I’m seeing a huge improvement in my engraving. Looking back I’m proud of where I’m at especially since taking my first strokes with an engraver were just back in October and man was that humbling. Of course there is still a long way to go I’m enjoying taking my small wins for now and I can only hope that I keep improving as time goes on.

My work I put into a Raven and Eagle design has been paying off with earrings and pendants. I’ve really been liking these as I continue to make more. I can see the improvement and each time I learn more about the process first hand. My tools and supplies are starting to come together and I’m getting more self reliant as time goes on. Also going into AIA has been very helpful. The design on the bracelet I’m working on is from there. There are many more designs and I feel fortunate to be able to follow in the foot steps of those that paved the way before me. 

The work I have been creating has been well received it gives me encouragement to keep going and get better. I try to take pride on my work and do a good job. It helps my teacher Jenny only accepts that I do descent work. In the long run it pays off. I worked for a while to get the couple of designs I have dialed in, I should be able to use them for a long time. 

I’m working on my own bracelet designs, figuring out the dimensions and how the design translates to an engraving design that is relatively small. I’m still figuring this out and with practice it will feel more natural.