[Jewelry making - Article 00944] - [Orchid] Wax Model Making

[Dubiel Design Studio]

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    First of all, I joined this forum about 2 months ago and I am in awe
    of the unselfish willingness of all members to provide their
    valuable and insightful responses. My thanks and congratulations go
    out to Hanuman and all the sponsors. 

    I have noticed that there are several model makers who frequently
    contribute to this group and was wondering if I could get some advise
    from them and any others that may have suggestions. After working for
    almost 30 years in a non-jewellery related industry, I was downsized
    from my position as a Vice President. I initially started to look for
    another "desk job", but decided I would do what I like doing. I have
    taken some jewellery courses over the past 12 months and worked at
    home doing small custom silver work. My real interest though lies in
    wax model making. I have been a wood carver for several years, and
    recently had the opportunity to produce animal wax models (dogs,
    cats, horses etc.) for a client. I have made several other models of
    rings, pendants, etc. which I believe are as good as some
    "professional" pieces I have seen. I know that this is what I want to
    do, can do it well and will get better as I produce more pieces. This
    is were my strengths and talents lie and is my new vocation. But,
    where does one start to make this a viable and reliable source of
    income? I am also 50 years old, but feel this should not make a
    difference (most days I still feel like I'm 25, except when my knee
    acts up!) Are there apprenticeship programmes for model makers? Are
    most model makers self employed or are there "factory" type jobs? If
    you are self employed at what point do you start approaching people
    and try to compete. I am currently in the process of putting together
    a "portfolio" of work (digital photos, wax models and metal castings)
    so that I can start approaching companies and individuals for
    assignments or employment. I would appreciate any comments or advise
    from such a diverse audience as this forum offers. Oh, by the way, if
    it helps and there are others in my area that can provide local
    advise, I live in the Toronto, Canada vicinity. Thanks for listening
    Richard Dubiel ddstudio AT rogers.com


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