Boy's Craft Too--Giancarlo's Jewelry

This is the bracelet that my 13 year old son made in his jewelry class.  It's a beautiful hammered and twisted steel bracelet that I wear all the time.  I especially love the way the clasp is integrated into the design.  

I think he signed up for the class because a friend told him that it was a great way to meet girls, and in any case he was only one of 2 boys in the class, so in that regard, he considered it a big positive. What surprised him, was how much he loved the class.  After this project they moved to bead work, and I don't mean stringing beads, but blowing their own glass beads.  I'll post those photos next week.

I was a little surprised that a teenager, who likes to skateboard and plays his fair share of video games would be so interested in a crafting class.  But, he not only liked the class, he signed up for the next level. Every day he came home with another wonderful treasure that he created, which made him feel so good.  It was the same in wood shop last year, the sense of accomplishment that these middle school kids get is priceless.  His wood shop teacher said that these types of classes help kids with eye hand coordination, with problem solving skills and learning how objects are made.  

When I think about it, it was only about 75-100 years ago in our history that most people made most of the objects that they used every day, they didn't buy them ready made.  People made their own clothes, blankets, window coverings, tables, chairs, and yes, even jewelry.  

Middle school kids, and especially boys need lots of creative outlets and opportunities to build, design and create.  They thrive on the sense of accomplishment and learn so much from the process.  I highly recommend jewelry or any other of the craft offerings as electives.  Creating something with your hands just feels good.

Comments

[Melissa]

Hi!
I love the bracelet your son made for you. He is so talented!

it is always so inspiring to see people of all ages connect to what makes them happy. that is what life is all about.

thank you for sharing your story!
:) melissa

[giggles]

Your son is an amazing artist. Love the bracelet. So many young people are written off because they don't follow a conventional road. In actuality they are often suppressed artists.... Lucky your son has such a supportive mom. He is well on his way to finding his niche!

[Vintage Jewelry]

Very nice bracelet! My daughter have many bracelets, I will show her yours one.I'm sure she will like it.

[Cheryl @ Mandala Oasis]

I LOVE this story..and the bracelet is magnificient. And that he made it just for you. Thank you for sharing this story...it warms my heart.

Blessings always to you, and yours...