Continuing from our interview yesterday, Deb Soromenho talks about the technical and manufacturing aspects of her designs.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
I love anything that feels earthy. I like mixing metals to get different looks and I love the earthy, natural colors of aged metal, wood, pearls and gemstones. I recently took an enameling class and am excited to add more color to my jewelry (I love what I like to call "spice" colors, like paprika, curry, mustard, sage, etc.)

Do you get more excited about the design or technical aspects of jewelry art?
Design, definitely. I do like to work out the "technical" issues in fabricating metal jewelry, but sometimes I wish I had a magic wand to do the finishing bits.

Do you find the process of experimentation frustrating or inspiring?
Both! I know that's a cop-out, but really, I get horribly frustrated trying new things over and over or having something in my head and not being able to get it to work. But I also find it extremely inspiring because I almost always come out of the process with a couple of new designs or ideas to try (sometimes even better than the one I was struggling with).

What do you have planned for future collections?
In the very near future I'll be adding some enameled rings and bangles, I love the look of enameled copper. Later on I'd like to do some more sculptural work, pieces that aren't necessarily for everyday wear, but can be admired as artwork on their own.

Find out more about Deb and A.W.E. Handcrafted Jewelry at the links below: