I hand make the slide focals for my bracelets in silver, copper and bronze. They are made from metal clay - metal particles in a binder. When the piece is fired in a kiln at very high temperatures, the binder burns away and the metal sinters - leaving pure and solid metal.
I love the flexibility the clay gives me. It's so much more malleable than hard sheet metal.
I don't make the silk myself but source it from Etsy from sellers who hand dye and sew them individually.
How to tie:
Silk care instructions
Hand wash in cold water and a drop of mild soap - like dish soap or baby shampoo.
Rinse silk in cold water until free of soap.
Roll up silk in tower to remove excess water. Hang on rack.
If you want a smooth ribbon iron on lowest setting while slightly damp.