As a dedicated (jewelry) hobbyist, I research, ask questions and collect information, tools, industry magazines and basically try to saturate myself in creative information related to metalsmithing, wire working, design and other mixed media applications. I have no formal training yet, just a serious amount of curiosity, a bit of daring and a pretty good sense of perspective -- make that humor -- regarding the experimental process. In fact, in eight years of experimentation, I have even managed to learn a thing or two. Willing and hopeful to learn more, your forum is a wonderful place to wander.