I'm aware of Mr Dabler, and I've joined his Facebook group. His equipment and red clay looks great. However, I'm in the UK and the postage is quite steep, especially for a hobbyist.

Thanks, that's a great idea. I've only recently found out about metal clays, so I'll definitely check them out. Polymer clays I suspect would be a cheaper option. I also need to get some better casting sand / clay, as the cheapy petrobond stuff I bought, ain't the best.

Well, the effort was definitely worth the result. I'll have to resist the temptation to buy a stamp and try it out. My enthusiasm sometimes outweighs my skill level.

I can't work out how you've managed that. Are the petals punched out, engraved or soldered on? It looks beautiful.

The perils of working in wax, came home to roost. Got the ring to the point of casting, and it snapped whilst pressing it into the sand. As this was to be a gift, and time was running out, I resorted to a simple band, and a first attempt at engraving. Every day's a school day!

Healthy, but frustrating at times. This snapped as I was pushing it into the sand. Back to square one! I believe a lot of Native American jewellery uses silver and turquoise.