25 Days of Paper 2015, Day 21

© VERSO 2015, Pistil Earrings

Melanie Brauner combines her training in papermaking and metalsmithing to create VERSO, her line of paper and metal jewelry. The forms are inspired by the homes insects build, such as coccoons, chrysalises, and hives, as well as other shapes found in nature, like the bends in a river, or the curves of a willow leaf, or the pistil of a flower.

Melanie first forms silver, copper, and brass into small frameworks, which are then dipped into abaca paper pulp. The paper fibers cling to the metal and create a webbed network in the open spaces, which shrinks as it dries. Over successive dips in more pulp, a tight paper skin is built up over the form. This technique is called dip-casting, and takes several days of dipping and drying to complete.

© 2015 VERSO, Petal Necklace

The resulting paper beads and pendants are sealed to make them durable and waterproof, and then turned into delicate necklaces and earrings using sterling silver wire and chain, and freshwater pearls. 

© 2015 VERSO, Chrysalis Necklace

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About our Sponsor: VERSO is a papermaking, metalsmithing, and bookbinding studio in Shoreline, WA. Owner and designer Melanie Brauner makes a line of abaca paper and metal jewelry, as well as hand-painted wrapping paper and gift boxes, hand-sewn bags, suminagashi marbled papers, and miniature book jewelry. She also makes custom books and boxes. Check all of these items out in the VERSO Etsy Shop.

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About the 25 Days of Paper 2015: It’s a great time to celebrate paper, and I’m delighted to share my ideas for using this amazing material with you. Throughout December, I’ll be posting a paper tutorial on even days, and every odd day will bring news about paper artists, stores, distributors and more! Receive updates via e-mail by adding your address in the upper right hand corner of this page. Enjoy the season, and feel free to leave a comment below and check out what people are making in the 25 Days of Paper FB Group!