A Copper Rose Metal Art - High Relief Chasing / Repousse & Metal Art

Featured in Rio Grande "The Studio" Blog

2012-01-13T09:40:00.000-08:00

A Copper Rose Metal Art's Chased / Hammered Aluminum Hard Hat Commission - Featured in the Rio Grande Jewelry Supply Blog "The Studio"!

Read Blog Post and see more photos: "Chased with WOW, Aluminum Hard Hat Custom Made With Medium Green Chasers Pitch"

You can purchase my medium green chasers pitch through my website in various quantities: PITCH IT TO YOU - CHASING/REPOUSSE PITCH

You can also purchase my medium green chasers pitch through Rio Grande Jewelry Supply in 5 lb orders.

As well as carrying the pitch products, Rio Grande also sells a great variety of metal forming and jewerly making supplies. Go check them out!

For custom metal art commissions such as this unique aluminum hard hat, contact Debra Montgomery / A Copper Rose Metal Art

Build More Profit Into Your Small Business | Manta Small Business Center

2012-01-04T10:29:00.000-08:00

MANTA SMALL BUSINESS TIP O' THE DAY:

HAVE A PLAN FOR 2012 & WRITE IT DOWN!

You don't need a new 50-page business plan. But you do need some clear, measurable goals with specific "actions" you need to take to achieve them. Written goals provide you with focus and clarity. So take the time to write down what you WANT (results or outcomes) and what you need to DO (actions) to make it happen this year.

My husband, Eric, has been an advocate of lists and organizing his day by writing things down for as long as I have known him. For the longest time, I was a resistant participant in this, I mean - I thought I don't need no stinkin' list! How hard is it, really, to keep all my tasks organized in my mind and maybe with the help of a calendar.

However..... as our business has gotten busier and each of our business-related responsibilities have grown - I have since discovered (okay... I had to admit I was wrong) - it is very easy to get off task or forget something if I don't write it down. As well as a means to refer back to job notes or even simply someone's name and phone number, a pen and paper also gives you a way to index your long and short term business goals. Writing it down just makes sense and later could even make "cents" .... get it - .... "cents"..... HA HA - okay, so I am not a comedian, but you get my gist.

Here's to a Productive, Profitable, Satisfying and Creative New Year for everyone!

Related article:
Build More Profit Into Your Small Business Manta Small Business Center by Joan Nowak

Peace Out -
Debra Montgomery
http://www.acopperrose.com/
http://www.themetalshoppe.net/

Asheville, NC Land For Sale

2011-09-13T10:43:00.000-07:00

Asheville Mountain Land For Sale (website)

This 57 acre parcel of mountain property is the last parcel of land that my parents have for sale. This property is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains in the Western North Carolina town of Asheville. It is located in close, convenient proximity to Asheville's city center. If you are looking for mountain living with some privacy but still want the convenience of shopping, entertainment, etc. that is a short drive away, this might be the location for you. Please feel free to click on the link above to go to an informational website to view photos, further descriptions of this potential mountain get away, as well as the realtor's contact information!

Represented by Judy Byrd of Beverly-Hanks & Associates

My Latest Commission - Manzanita Tree Sculpture, Carmel, CA

2011-09-02T11:32:00.000-07:00

I just completed a larger welded sculpture commission. It is a steel manzanita tree sculpture that will be used primarily as a wedding chuppa and then generally as a nice decorative piece on this property. It is my first job/commission in the Carmel, CA., area - we have been waiting a long time to get some work in this area.

The location is at Point Lobos Ridge, a nice private rental home with fantastic views, used for weddings and other private events. The owner, Lou Sena, was super nice and was very happy with the artwork. Hope it brings both of us new and appreciative business!

I hope this next year will be filled with more of this type of art / sculptural commissions!

Menopause, Hot Flashes and Hormone-Related Health Issues - It Is A Big Deal!

2011-07-14T09:38:00.000-07:00

This may be a very personal and private issue with some, some may find this an awkward subject, or it may be more of a little window into my personal life than you wanted to see, but I am posting this anyway.

Hormone related health issues are real issues that will affect EVERY WOMAN to some degree EVENTUALLY and the more educated you can be - the better it will be for you and those close to you. Actually, one of my metalsmithing friends, Teresa Masters, turned me on to this and I want to share it as well.

This is a movie that touches on a lot of different aspects of womens health with regards to these issues, including hysterectomies, Womens Health Initiative study on hormone therapy and what was wrong and inaccurate about those studies, hormone use post breast cancer, bone health, heart health and more. There are also references to other educational books, etc.

I did do quite of bit of self-education prior to my hysterectomy, but didn't find a lot of information regarding post hystectomy hormone problems until after the fact....when I started to have problems. My doctor never mentioned any of this either. Maybe it was because my ovaries were left intact and I "wasn't supposed to" experience early menopause - I don't know...

But ..... its not too late to continue to educate myself and pass the word to other women who could be going through the same thing.

Chicks - Its about your health and its about your quality of life!

And ya know what else, it can't hurt to have the men, (and other family members for that matter) in your lives watch this as well to help them have a better understanding about all of this. I will say I have a very supportive and understanding husband and family, for that I am grateful! :)

(via Hot Flash Havoc website) HOT FLASH HAVOC (http://www.hotflashhavoc.net/) is the most provocative and revealing film ever made about menopause. For the first time this film sets the record straight about the Women's Health Initiative study released in 2002, which misrepresented that the hormonal replacement therapy being used by millions of women to treat the symptoms of menopause could actually increase the risk of heart attacks and cancer. This misinformation caused confusion, hysteria, and fear among women as well as healthcare providers, endangering the health and well being of millions of women, many of whom flushed their hormones down the toilet.

This film not only sheds insightful light on the confusion stemming from a decade of misguided facts, but conveys poignant personal stories shared by real women and in-depth interviews with the world's most noted experts.

HOT FLASH HAVOC provides compelling information about menopause that will empower women for the “Second Act” of their lives.

The website is WWW.HOTFLASHHAVOC.NET

SUMMER WORKSHOP AT SHARON ART STUDIO - SAN FRANCISCO

2011-05-14T09:25:00.000-07:00

THIS CLASS WAS CANCELLED DUE TO LOW ENROLLMENT: I will be teaching a beginning repousse class / workshop at Sharon Art Studio in San Francisco on July 9, 2011 - July 10, 2011; 10 am to 2 pm each day.

Click on the link below for more information and / or to register.
SHARON ART STUDIO ADULT SUMMER CLASS SCHEDULE

Class size limited. Hope to see you there!

A VERY NICE WRITE UP ON MY CHASER'S PITCH

2011-05-14T09:18:00.000-07:00

Rio Grande Jewelry Supply has been selling my pitch for some months now. Sales have been good and credible reviews have been coming in. They recently did a nice write up on the pitch in their blog

THE STUDIO - Jewelry Blog by Rio Grande.

Click the link below to read!

NEW GREEN CHASER'S PITCH GETS RAVE REVIEWS!

You can purchase my chasers pitch through Rio Grande Jewelry Supply or directly through me on my website: Pitch It To You Chasers Pitch

PRICING BASICS

2011-05-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

By Eric & Debra Montgomery
THE METAL SHOPPE / A COPPER ROSE METAL ART
(an article that was written for the California Blacksmith Assn. Journal)

Many factors come into play when you talk about pricing your work. These factors include reputation of the artist/metalsmith, the public’s perceived value, media bias, what the market will bear, competitors’ prices, etc. In this article, we are only going to touch on some basics and base this on a sole proprietorship scenario. The numbers we are going to use are based on working twelve 4 week months or 1920 hours/year = 160 hours/month.

COST OF MATERIALS

Using a notebook or record book, you can keep track of materials on any particular job. These notebooks may seem unnecessary to a seasoned metalsmith/business owner, but particularly with a startup business, it will help keep you in line with your costs.

There are different viewpoints as far as how to account for cost of materials and is different for every shop. It could be a 10% mark up all the way up to 100% mark up. This starts to get into what the current market will bear, what your competition is charging and other factors. My advice here would be to be more conservative on your markup than not.

OVERHEAD EXPENSES

What does it cost to run your shop? Take into account business-related costs, which are the fixed costs to run your business other than material costs. Be meticulous about keeping receipts and records of these costs. For example, keep a notebook in your work truck to keep track of the job-related miles. Did you know with mileage alone, you could get a 50¢ per mile write-off on your taxes?

Miscalculation of your overhead expenses could result in underbidding or overbidding your project. This could result in either not getting the job because your price is too high or getting the job because of your low price, but working at a loss.

Therefore, you need to figure an overhead expense hourly rate component to include in your total quote calculations. For example, let’s say your annual overhead is $36,000. Take $36,000/12 which equals $3,000, your average monthly overhead expenses. Now take your $3,000 monthly overhead expenses/160 monthly hours. This equals $18.75 per hour. This is your overhead expense rate component, which must be added onto each hour of fabrication time.

NOTE: Keep in mind when you are keeping track of your overhead expenses, also keep track of what I would call overhead hours. In running your metalsmithing business, you will also be doing other business-related tasks, such as answering emails, answering /making phone calls, preparing quotes, etc. You need to be able to conduct business knowing that you are not losing money when you answer the phone. I will touch on this further in our final calculations.

LABOR

It is crucial to keep track of the direct hours spent on actually working on a particular project, including design time specific to that project. We have all had a project where the hours were miscalculated and we basically had to eat that labor cost. You certainly can’t go back and ask a customer for more money because you miscalculated your time. Again, a seasoned metalsmith won’t necessarily have to keep notes, but I think it is very important at the beginning or when you take on a type of project you have never done before. It can be as simple as keeping a notebook handy to log in your hours each time you go to work on a particular job.

The importance of this is to (1) be able to provide professional and accurate quotes for your work and (2) if you find your labor costs are higher than the market will bear, you can use these notes to analyze the areas where you may be spending too much time and figure out a way to increase your productivity. You can also use these notes to determine if you could possibly use a lesser-paid employee or helper to do some of the more routine tasks, freeing you up for the more advanced work.

FIGURE OUT PROFIT NECESSARY

How do you start figuring out what you need to make per hour? One way to start would be to figure out your personal expenses. What do you need to pay your mortgage/rent, utilities and groceries, etc.? Are you working solely as a self-employed metalsmith or do you have a full time job and do the metal work more as a second job?

Let’s just put some numbers out there: Let’s say you need $55,000 a year to pay for your personal living expenses (not including your shop overhead) and plan to work 48 regular 40 hour weeks. That equates to 1920 hours per year. Dividing $55,000/1920 = $28.64 per hour which is your necessary profit hourly rate component.

If you are employee full time through another company and do the metalsmithing on the side, then you can simply use the same formula above to figure out how much you want to make on top of your salary with your side business.

FINAL CALCULATION TO DETERMINE YOUR SHOP RATE

We are ready to do the final calculations to determine your shop rate. The next step is take your profit hourly rate component of $28.64 determined previously and add in your overhead expense rate component of $18.75. This equals $47.39 per hour.

As mentioned previously, you need to factor in an adjustment to cover the hours spent on non-fabrication type tasks of running your metalsmithing business. For example, you determine you spend 8 hours out of a 40 hour week performing these tasks. This means you only have 32 hours of work hours per week available for actual fabrication. Take 32 (hours) / 40 (hours) which equals 0.80 or 80%.

Take your hourly rate $47.39/0.80 which equals $59.24. This is your final shop rate that you would use in calculating your chargeable labor hours on a job quote.

SUMMARY

Figuring the Price of the Job

SHOP RATE = MATERIALS + LABOR + PROFIT

Pricing is a vast topic and this article covers some very basic information. We hope you find this basic information helpful and useful. For outstanding references on pricing metal crafts and the like, check out any of the links provided below.

RESOURCES

References/Links: Harriete Estel Berman - ASK Harriete; Home Jewelry Business and Design Guide; SNAG Professional Development Seminars

The Internet Is Becoming The New Yellow Pages - Are You Ready?

2011-03-20T19:23:00.000-07:00

This is an article that I wrote for the Jan/Feb 2011 Issue of the California Blacksmith Assn Journal - thought it would be worth posting here:

I don’t claim to be an expert in internet marketing or website building, but I can share with you what I have learned by trial and error in relation to our business exposure on the world wide web.

In this economy, I think small businesses need as much of an edge as the possibly can get without spending a fortune. It appears that the internet is becoming the new yellow pages. Having a website or blog is a great way to get your name, portfolio and content out there in connection with your particular market locally, as well as get some nationwide and world wide exposure for what can be minimal cost compared to most conventional advertising.
There are many topics I can talk about under this umbrella, but I think the first thing would be
“Do It Yourself “ web site building services.

Three features that are important in my book are:

1. Affordability
2. Ease of Use
3. Google Verification Friendly

Everyone is tightening their belts these days and building your own website is one way to save some up front expenses. I have experimented with “do it yourself” website building services since we opened our business 7 years ago. I will talk about four which in my opinion, are the most user-friendly, most reasonably priced for what you get, have nicer templates and have decent integration/site verification with Google, Yahoo and Bing website tools. Site verification gives you the tools to get information about your site, helping you improve your site optimization by tracking how your site is working on the web.

The first service, which is my favorite and is the service we are currently using for both our sites, is Bandzoogle.com. This is a website service that was created initially for the music industry with many easy to use features for the more artistic venue. While it was created for the music industry, I think it crosses over very well with many useful features for visual arts as well. The templates are attractive and artsy. The site building tools are extremely easy to use so even the most novice website builder can put together a very nice site. For the more experienced website builder, you can utilize the more advanced features on the templates or you have the capability to build a completely custom site. The prices are reasonable starting at $9.95 for a 10 page/1 email site up to $19.95 per month for unlimited pages/10 email site. They can also host your domain. This service has seamless integration/site verification with Google Webmaster Tools. With regard to technical support, you have live chat and email “help desk” correspondence available and they are quick to respond. The only thing I don’t like about this site is, at this time, there is no way to promote each individual page. Having said that though, I have not noticed a drop in the visitation to our site since switching. Go to Bandzoogle.com for more information and a free, no-obligation 30-day trial. Honestly, out of all of the do it yourself services I have tried, this is the easiest I have used to date, as well as the smoothest transition when moving from another service.

The second, GoDaddy.com, is a decent do it yourself service with very reasonable prices. You can get a domain name for as low as $1.99 and a 5-page website for as low as $4.99/month. The templates are relatively easy to use and they have a good choice of some very nice professional looking templates. There is seamless integration/site verification with Google Website Tools. For the advanced user, you can squeeze a little more out of the templates using some of their advanced features. Techical support is not bad. GoDaddy.com hosts the domain names for websites through their service, and can host your domain if you are not using their website building service. You get a professional email box option with GoDaddy.com also. Go to GoDaddy.com for more information or to start a website.

The third, Wordpress.com, is a little more complicated. In my experience, it requires a little working knowledge on putting a site together here, but it is not too difficult. One thing about Wordpress.com is that there is seamless integration/site verification with Google Webmaster Tools, Yahoo Site Explore AND Bing Web Tools. It takes sometimes 24 hours to get an answer from the help desk. You can use Wordpress.com for free as a blog OR, you can pay $25.00 for the year for a domain name, that they host, and have an actual “yourbusinessname.com” website address. F.Y.I: Don’t get this service confused with Wordpress.org which is for website builders with very advanced skills - Wordpress.com is designed for doing it yourself.

The fourth, Blogger.com, which is a blogging “service” through Google. This is another situation where you can obtain website presence for free. However, if you want to have an actual “nameofyourbusiness.com” website address, you have the option here, like Wordpress.com, to upgrade to a domain name. Blogger.com domain names are hosted by GoDaddy.com and for as little as $10.00 a year, you have a .com address. No professional email services are offered through Blogger.com. However, you can use whatever active email address you have through this service. Help forums, etc., are available for technical questions. Since this is a Google “product,” the integration/verification process through Google Website Tools is automatic.

The main thing with the internet is getting your “content” out there for people to find whether it is through the blogs or actual websites. For examples of some of the site services I have mentioned, feel free to view our Bandzoogle.com websites, at the following links: http://acopperrose.com http://themetalshoppe.net
To view one of our Wordpress.com sites, follow this link: www.customcopperkitchenhoods.com
To view one of our Blogger.com sites, follow this link: www.copperkitchenrangehoods.com

I hope you find this information helpful!

MY COPPER ROSE LOGO T-SHIRTS ARE READY!

2011-03-11T14:35:00.000-08:00

I finally got some t-shirts printed up and are now for sale!

Mens sizes S-XL (Crew neck) $16.00/ea + shpg and applicable tax
Womens sizes S-XL (V-neck) $18.00/ea + shpg and applicable tax

Below is how the back of the shirt looks.

Go to my store to order A COPPER ROSE STORE

This first order was on the conservative side with regard to colors, sizes and quantities until I can see how much they sell. If I don't currently have your size or you would like to see a specific style, please email me at info@acopperrose.com to let me know and I will try to accommodate any changes and additions on future orders! UVMHUMFHX4GM

Thanks in advance for your support of A COPPER ROSE METAL ART!

I'D RATHER BE IN THE STUDIO - Book by Alyson B. Standfield

2011-03-01T09:53:00.000-08:00

I recently purchased this book and find that it has plenty of easy to understand common sense advice and great organizational and marketing tips!

I'D RATHER BE IN THE STUDIO is for artists of all kinds. Painters, sculptors, ceramist, jewelers, photographers, and others will benefit from the easy-to-follow self-promotion practices in this book.

I’d Rather Be in the Studio! The Artist’s No-Excuse Guide to Self-Promotion

Author and art-marketing consultant Alyson B. Stanfield, of ArtBizCoach.com, focuses on sharing the artwork directly with potential buyers through electronic and traditional communication outlets—in a manner that is comfortable, not artificial. Artists match Internet marketing strategies with sincere personal skills to take charge of their art careers.

The book includes online worksheets and downloads.

Victoria Lansford - Instructional Metal Techniques Videos and Book

2011-02-04T11:34:00.000-08:00

Victoria Lansford - Independent studio metalsmith, producer of the Metal Techniques of Bronze Age Masters

An internationally acclaimed artist, educator, author and publisher, Victoria Lansford creates one-of-a-kind wearable pieces of art and art objects that evoke the mystery and splendor of ancient masters, yet are infused with her own provocative vision.

She has developed a series of instructional videos in high relief Eastern Repousse, Russian Filigree and Rings, as well as an instructional book on Chainmaking.

Follow any of the links above for more information or to preview these videos and book!

FRESNO FIRE & METAL

2011-01-03T09:38:00.000-08:00

School of Industrial Arts

CHECK THIS OUT!

Location:
2223 S. Van Ness Avenue
Fresno, CA 93721
559-285-9662

Mission Statement

Fresno Fire and Metal is a start-up non-profit educational facility that seeks to offer both fine and industrial arts instruction to youth and adults with an emphasis on eco-friendly practices and providing scholarships to under-privileged youth.

Classes to be offered in:

· Blacksmithing / Coppersmithing
· Welding—MIG, TIG, Oxy-Acetylene
· Glass—Slumping, Fusing, Lampworking, Blowing
· Enameling
· Jewelry
· Foundry
· Sculpture—Metal and Stone
· Metal Fabrication
· Fire Dance

FIRST CLASSES START SAT. FEB 5, 2011!

In addition to their focus on art . . .

They will provide leverage for local teachers of at-risk youth. FFM will collaborate with teachers to identify students who might benefit from scholarships to attend classes at FFM. Teachers at the middle/high school level, working with FFM staff, will devise a behavioral plan unique to the identified student. The plan might emphasize things such as completion of homework over a specified time, behavioral changes in the classroom, number of books read, or grades. If the student meets the objectives set forth in his/her plan, the student then earns admission into a class of his/her choosing at FFM!

BEGINNING REPOUSSE TECHNIQUES CLASS

2011-01-03T09:24:00.000-08:00

Location:
Fresno Fire & Metal
2223 S. Van Ness Avenue
Fresno, CA 93721
559-285-9662

Date/Time:
Sat. Feb 5, 2011 9am-3pm
Sun. Feb 6, 2011 9am-3pm

Instructor:
Debra Montgomery / A Copper Rose Metal Art

All tools, materials and copper will be supplied for the class. Just bring gloves and safety glasses.

An instructional book is included in the cost of the class and will be yours to take home at the end of the class, as well as your completed copper piece(s).

Copper, CUSTOM HOODS, COPPER Range HOODS, Custom Iron - The METAL Shoppe, Custom Copper and Metal - Home/About

2010-10-19T10:58:00.000-07:00

Copper, CUSTOM HOODS, COPPER Range HOODS, Custom Iron - The METAL Shoppe, Custom Copper and Metal - Home/About

The Metal Shoppe, Custom Metal Design, Fabrication & Coppersmithing: Copper In the Kitchen - Consider A Copper Feature ...

2010-10-19T10:20:00.001-07:00

The Metal Shoppe, Custom Metal Design, Fabrication & Coppersmithing: Copper In the Kitchen - Consider A Copper Feature ...: "Have you considered a copper feature in your new kitchen? Custom Welded Copper Kitchen Range Hood by The Metal ShoppeCopper Chasing/Repouss..."

The Metal Shoppe, Custom Metal Design, Fabrication & Coppersmithing: Copper - A "Green" Building Material

2010-10-19T10:20:00.000-07:00

The Metal Shoppe, Custom Metal Design, Fabrication & Coppersmithing: Copper - A "Green" Building Material: "Copper Bay Window Cover by The Metal Shoppe Copper products for your home, such as exterior roof sheet metal, i.e. crickets, valley, etc.; a..."

Chasing / Repousse Starter "Kit"

2010-09-28T17:13:00.000-07:00

SALE ON TOOLS!

Taking Orders- am offering a 25% discounted package deal on a Chasing / Repousse "Starter" Tool Kit.

Kit includes:

(1) 8" cast iron pitch bowl with rubber ring
(1) 4 oz. basic chasing hammer
(5) lbs of my medium grade chasers pitch
(1) "Beginning Repousse Techniques..." instructional book
(2) 6" x 6" pcs of 24 oz. copper

COST: $105.00 plus $13.95 shipping (within USA only - Canada orders email me for shipping quote)

Go to my A Copper Rose Metal Art website Online Store to order.

Allow 4 weeks for delivery.

Custom forged tool set is sold separately. See online store for details.

Chasers Pitch - Pine Rosin Based Medium Hard Pitch for Chasing / Repousse Work

2010-09-18T19:02:00.000-07:00

I am now offering a nice pine rosin based "Chasers" pitch through "Pitch It To You" - Chasing / Repousse Pitch - A Division of A Copper Rose Metal Art. Go to Pitch It To You website to order!

Particulars as follows:

FYI:

It takes at least 2.5 lbs of pitch to fill up a 4" pitch bowl.
It takes at least 5 lbs of pitch to fill up an 8" pitch bowl.

I am passing on my commercial flat rate shipping prices to you.
($10.20 versus $10.70)

Shipping costs have been determined based on the fact that most orders will be for 2.5 lbs and up.

Any orders less than 2.5 lbs, please contact me.

So having clarified that: prices are as follows:

Up to 5 lbs @ $9.00/lb plus $10.20 shipping flat rate box - After I receive your payment, allow 5 days processing for orders 5 lbs and under.
6-15 lbs @8.75/lb plus $10.20 shipping flat rate box- After I receive your payment, allow 7 days processing for orders 6-15 lbs.
Orders over 15 lbs @$8.70/lb - call for shipping quote and turnaround time.

I apologize for any inconvenience, but currently, I cannot process orders from Canada/Mexico or any other international country through my standard shopping carts.

Orders from Canada/Mexico or other international countries, please send me your order requests via email and I will send you an invoice with the correct shipping prices. With this invoice, you will be able to pay with check or through Paypal.

Canada/Mexico - up to 15 lbs of pitch - Flat Rate Shipping $25.60

Other International Countries - up to 15 lbs of pitch - Flat Rate Shipping is $41.28

Thanks for your interest!

Stand By Your Product/Art

2010-08-11T18:40:00.000-07:00

SCENARIO:   Can you just "tone down" your work and leave off some of the details?" Wow!

The other day, I was speaking with a potential client regarding a fairly large copper repousse piece they were considering. To represent my capabilities, I brought along my current portfolio in order to show them some of the larger scale work I had completed in the past. I went over everything in detail, including the technique, as well as touching on the hours each piece or section took to complete. The response was "Wow, that sounds expensive." This further resulted in a conversation about other artists they had spoken too with regard to some other big projects in this new home they were building. The gist of the conversation was that while they wanted something nice, it didn't appear that they were willing to pay what they might anticipate the final fee to be. Their solution to that was to suggest that the artists "tone down" the quality - not do as detailed of a job that they normally do because they were thinking "cheap."   Yes, they actually used the word "cheap" many times during this conversation.

My response to her was that my prices were fair given the quality of work but that I would not be able to give her a ball park price until I had time to better evaluate the scope of the project. (At this point, the details were was just a brief conversation). Obviously, if this person calls to more seriously discuss this particular commission, I have no intention of "toning down" the normal quality of my work to cheapen the project for them.

I can't believe someone would even suggest that. Its insulting! I think that my portfolio represents a certain quality of work and is representative of many careful hours put into each piece. What makes it is the details! It is hard to get your name out there in the art world. I always thought that one should put 100 percent into each piece and make it as perfect as possible, taking as many required hours as necessary to do just that. I don't think that they would ask the carpenters building their house to "tone down" the quality of their carpentry. Why do they think that it would be appropriate to suggest that to someone they approach on making a large wall hanging that will be the focal point of their living room? My guess is that they may have contacted the artist who did a similar piece (the work was featured in a high end log home magazine) and that his price was more than they could afford so they think that a hungry local artist would be easier to persuade? I am just speculating here, of course. Uh- No.

First, all of the artists out there, like any other small business - in order to be truly competitive, you need to set your prices that are comparable with your competition within the scope of the quality of the work that is produced in that category. You should take the mind set that first, as in any business, you ARE allowed to make a profit. That is not an unreasonable expectation. Second, there is the cost of the actual hours and material put into the piece and after that, there should be an "asthetic" value for your work.

Obviously as you gain skill, popularity and notoriety within the art community, collectors, etc., your "asthetic" worth may rise, but to start - maybe do some research and see what is going on in your specialty. You can likely come up with a reasonable asthetic value for your work by seeing what current selling prices are for similar pieces. Its a place to start anyway.

I have learned from being in small business in fields other than art, you don't do yourself or anyone else any good by undercutting the industry norms when it comes to pricing. Typically the people who do that are not the best in the business and are just trying to drum up work. What happens is that they get in over their head and end up ultimately blowing the job anyway, but in the process, have potentially brought the price down for everyone and created a negative association with the industry.

An example of this in our metal fabrication world was we were called out to bid a copper job. We were referred to these people only for the copper work. There was another blacksmith on site working on the iron railings on this house. The home owner expressed some frustration with this person because they were taking way to long and wanted to know if we did railings. We told them we did, but that we knew this other shop and were not interested in coming in on their job. So, we bid the copper part. Turns out later, this shop found out that we were bidding the copper, and even though they had NO experience with copper whatsoever, (as a matter of fact, they were referring copper work to us earlier in the years) - they undercut our price by $1,000, which resulted in us losing that job. Later we found out they were not able to figure out how to do the copper work required, ultimately failed and could not produce the copper like they said they could. And.....they ultimately got kicked off the job completely because they never got the iron work finished.   So not only did they screw it up for themselves, they screwed it up for everyone involved. We all lost.   Neither of us got the copper or the iron.   This is an example of what happens when you undercut your market. And we have never heard from that contractor again!   Thanks guys!

Lowering your prices to accommodate a cheapskate customer or contractor doesn't help you any more than "toning down" the quality of your work in order to "make it cheaper" in the eyes of these types of customers.

Well, I got off track a little bit - but my point is - do your homework. Make sure you have a justifiable price on your art work. After that, stand by your price and stand by the quality of your work that will back up that price. If a customer says they can go to Joe Schmoe to get it cheaper, let 'em go! My guess is that it will turn out quite like the story I mentioned above. There is a reason why they are so cheap. And personally, I do not have a problem mentioning that to the customer either.

Bring your portfolio of your work and qualifications, get all the information you need to accurately bid the job and bid it like the professional that you are.   After that, stand by your price and the quality of your work. If they don't want to work with you on those terms, they you are better off moving on.

All this time spent building your portfolio and reputation based on your hard work, developing a reputation and signature style can quickly be unraveled if you start decreasing the quality to accommodate a cheapskate.

If we all work together, rather than against each other - it will help keep the whole industry strong!

Website Changes Coming

2010-08-04T17:53:00.000-07:00

I am in the process of changing website service providers. My basic website address - http://acopperrose.com/ will remain the same, but some of the page links out there in internet land may prove to be broken.

If you book mark the main home page address, http://acopperrose.com/ that will still get you to my site.

As of 5:51 pm pacific time 8/04/2010, the old website is still coming up. It is supposed to change anywhere from 24-48 hours.

My email address: info@acopperrose.com will also remain the same. This is already working in the new website format.

Thanks for following my website/work!

Have a good one!

Other Repousse Projects of Note

2010-06-07T11:09:00.000-07:00

A second example of monumental Copper Repousse sculpture is Portlandia by Raymond Kaskey, which was installed in 1985 in downtown Portland, Oregon. This sculpture is said to be the second largest Copper Repousse sculpture in the United States. Again, in the close up image below, you can see what appear to be seams in the construction of this sculpture.

Another example, one from antiquity, is the late Eighteenth Dynasty mummy mask of the King Tutankhamun. The Lapis Lazuli and other stones were inlaid in chased areas after the height of the form was completed. The majority of the mask was formed using the technique of Repousse using what appears to be a single sheet of gold. Though the ceremonial beard, Nekhbet Vulture and Uraeus were attached separately.

Metalworking Trivia - The Statue of Liberty - Largest Copper Repousse Statue in the United States

2010-06-07T10:46:00.000-07:00

The Statue of Liberty is considered to be the largest Copper Repousse sculpture in the United States. If you look closely at the photo, you can see the seams in the copper pieces.

The Statue of Liberty was a gift from the French, intended to celebrate the centenary of the American Revolution, though it was not completed until June 1884. Construction began in France in1875, was completed in June 1884, pieces shipped to the United States in 1885 and was officially dedicated October 28, 1886.

The artist who designed this sculpture Frederick-Auguste Bartholdi received a patent on his design in 1879 and it is said that small replicas of the statue were sold, which helped raise funding for the project.

The statue's framework was designed and executed by none other than Gustave Eiffel, who later designed and constructed the famous Eiffel Tower.

Some stats are: Height is 151 feet. Weight of copper used is 200,000 pounds. Thickness of copper sheet used is 3/32" (approximately 1/32" thicker than 48 oz. copper sheet). More than 300 sheets of copper used.

These sheets were individually hand-hammered or pressed into shape using various wooden molds, hence the repousse process. Interestingly, each panel/sheet was backed by an iron strap for rigidity. Each of these straps were fastened to the supporting framework in a way that each section is supported independently of the other with no panel hanging from another or bearing down on another.

In 1985, the Statue underwent a major restoration with the 1,350 pieces of the original iron frame being replaced with stainless steel due to severe corrosion problems.

Some more interesting facts: Liberty's torch had been plagued with leaks ever since it was modified in 1916 to install internal lighting. Gutzon Borglum, the sculptor of Mount Rushmore, had cut out most of the copper from the flame and installed 250 tinted yellow glass panes. The torch was deemed beyond repair and was hoisted off the statue on July 4, 1984. A team of ten French metalworkers constructed a new torch on Liberty Island using the same techniques and tools as Bartholdi. Old photos and measurements taken from the original were used as a reference so the new torch would remain consistent the original design, except that the copper flame was plated in 24 carat gold leaf (in 1893 Bartholdi had suggested gilding the statue when he was disappointed by its lighting). The new torch was raised into place on November 25, 1985 and the original torch was placed on display for visitors in the lobby of the museum in the pedestal.

Here is a link that gives more information on the history and restoration if you are interested:

ASCE MET - History/Restoration Statue of Liberty

California Sculptors Symposium - Sept 21 - 26, 2010 - REPOUSSE CLASS CANCELLED

2010-05-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

Below is the link to the Registration Form for the Symposium

September 2010 Symposium Brochure/Registration Form

UPDATE: 09/10/2010

Unfortunately, due to lack of registrants for this particular workshop - it was mutually decided to cancel the "Introduction to Copper Repousse and its Applications in Sculpture" workshops.

I will, however, be putting together some repousse class schedules after the new year so will keep you posted.

CHANGE IN WORKSHOP TIMES as of 06/25/2010: My workshop times have changed to the following:

CANCELLED - Wed, Sept 22 - 10:30am-12:00 noon / 1:30 pm-3:00 pm

CANCELLED - Thurs, Sept 23 - 10:30 am-12:00 noon

I believe due to the short time blocks available here, I will expect that my workshops will end up being more of an ongoing rotation throughout the day for those who want to try hands-on work. Hope to see some of you there!

If you would like more information/brochure on the Symposium, please email me at info@acopperrose.com with your mailing address/contact information.

For updates on CSS:

California Sculptors Symposium Website

One step closer to getting my shirts/apparel going!

2010-05-01T13:13:00.000-07:00

Okay, here is the preliminary artwork for the back part of my logo: Joshua Wigger, the artist designing the logo - a plug for him - he is doing a fantastic job! One step closer to getting my apparel going! Very excited!

September California Sculptors Symposium

2010-04-28T18:14:00.000-07:00

Okay, so the latest word on the September symposium is that the majority did not want to make a permanent switch to the September dates. So that means that there will still be the annual April event.

However, the last word I got from Victor is that they are still planning a "Focus on Sculpture" event for September anyway. I do not know for sure if I am going to be part of that event or not.

Nothing is set in stone yet, but I will keep you posted via my website and blog as soon as I hear anything new.

Feel free to go to their websitefor information as well.

Preview of Book

2010-03-22T13:45:00.001-07:00

**PREVIEW OF BOOK - Click on images below to enlarge**

E Book is Ready

2010-03-21T14:34:00.000-07:00

My book is ready for purchase. The download PDF version should be up and running this evening. I also am selling hard copies of the book, which I can simply mail to you. I accept check or you can pay on line via PayPal. You don't need a PayPal account to pay through them.

The price of the e-book will be $15.00 (plus tax for California residents)
The price of the hard copy will be $20.00 plus shipping (plus tax for California residents)

Click here to go directly to my store to purchase.

NOW SELLING REPOUSSE TOOLS

2010-03-10T16:58:00.000-08:00

I am now offering some basic beginning repousse tools for sale on my website. I am also in the process of developing a "logo" for some apparel I hope to offer by the end of April - T-shirts and Tank Tops to start, Sweatshirts in the Fall. I have commissioned a terrific local artist, Joshua Wigger, to design the logo - I am expecting the designs to be fun, a little edgy and unique! I will keep you posted!

For the tools currently available, click on the link below to go directly to my online store:

A Copper Rose Metal Art - Online Store

California Sculptors Symposium

2010-02-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

I just got confirmation of my invitation to be an instructor/demonstrator during the September 2010 California Sculptors Symposium located in the wonderful coastal city of Cambria, CA., at Camp Ocean Pines!

This is exciting - I had approached them about this at last April's symposium!

My tentative dates (pending confirmation of the other instructors) will be Wed./September 22, Thurs./ September 23 and Fri./September 24. The plan is that I will be leading two hands on workshops per day, two hours each. I will be providing all the materials necessary and you will go home with a piece that you complete.

I will also have some items for sale, such as my upcoming book, tools, etc. I am also currently working on designing a logo for some apparel.

I will keep you updated to the final details as I know them!

In the meantime, there will be the April Symposium going on April 18th through April 25, 2010. Please go to their website for more information regarding attending this event! California Sculptors Symposium

Ironstone Vineyards "Spring Obsession" Art Show & Wine Celebration 2010

2010-02-26T13:04:00.000-08:00

See my work "A MAPLE LEAF STUDY" on display in the Ironstone Vineyards "Spring Obsession" Juried Art Show and Wine Celebration

Address: 1894 Six Mile Road, Murphys, CA 95247

Show opens Saturday: 10am - 6pm
Artist's Reception 4pm-6pm
Show closes Sunday May 2, 2010 5pm

There will be other activities going on during the month of March at the winery.

Go to their website Ironstone Vinyards to get more information.

Enhancing Your Website For More Exposure

2010-01-02T13:09:00.000-08:00

01/02/2010

I came across this article and it has some very helpful, legitimate and free information regarding website enhancement. I have been working on my site and already have some of these things in place on my website and it has, in fact, increased traffic to my site.

Just click on the link below to the PDF file. Hope you find something useful!

Click here to view the full article on Website Enhancements.

Artful Business - POSITION YOUR BUSINESS FOR SUCCESS..... (article from Sculptural Pursuit Mag.)

2010-01-02T11:29:00.000-08:00

Hi to all you fellow artists/business owners -

I read this article in the Winter 2009 issue of Sculptural Pursuit magazine. It's really just common sense, but I thought I would share.

Here's to a successful and creative 2010 for everyone!

Excerpt:

"For the past year, we've been inundated with one distressing piece of economic news after another, along with anecdotal reports from art fairs and shows around the country indicating that sales are undergoing a major downturn. I was surprised and gratified to see so many sculptors actually selling work at the recent Loveland shows. Many of the artists with whom I talked had sold at least a few pieces, and some had made significant dents in their show inventory...

.....One of the positives that comes out of times like these is that your business can become much leaner, yet stay successful, so that when times change - because they always do - you're ready to go with new work, new habits and a new attitude."

Click here to view the full article on Artful Business.