Small Square Obvara Fired Shawl Pins
This smaller versions of our Large Shawl Pin was designed for use with fibers that might not be able support the larger version, alpaca for example. While we call the item a shawl pin, it can be used as a ornament for a sweater, a hat adornment, some have used it as a bag closure.
These handmade clay shawl pins are individually decorated using a technique called "obvara"...(ohb-var-aw) which makes each a unique. Even though we carefully fire each piece in the same manner, variation occurs and gives unique qualities to the piece. The technique was first developed 4-500 years ago in the Baltic Region and was used to seal pottery surfaces for food and drink. The technique predates all glazing in Europe. To read more about the obvara technique used to make this piece, Click Here,
The post firing manipulation of the surface of the pieces is a hallmark of LickinFlames. The shawl pin takes several weeks to dry and then the finishing can take place. After the shawl pins are removed from the kiln (while still hot at approximately 1300 degrees Fahrenheit) they are decorated in obvara. Each is cooled, washed, dried, sprayed with acrylic to protect it and an appropriate brass stick (also made by LickinFlames) is chosen to finish the piece. Each piece is approximately 2 1/2 inches.
The choice is for your favorite color or choose, "Brenda's Handpicked Choice" and let her make the decision.
Remember that because of the handmade nature of the brooch, some variations should be expected. The pieces shown in the pictures are only examples and are not the pieces that will be sent. The quality is always the same standard that LickinFlames is known for, but some variations in color, design element placement and decoration patterns needs to be allowed. We know you will love the piece that is shipped.