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Jewelry Making Adventures Part 2

Last week I told you about the Ghost that haunts the building where I attend Basic Jewelry/Metals class.  This week, I want to share with you what we are actually learning.

We will be learning basic metalsmithing techniques to create a simple linked bracelet.  At the end of the 6 week course, we should know about annealing, pickling, stamping, drilling, sawing/piercing, filing/sanding, plier usage, and patina.

Annealing, pickling, what kind of class is this?  These terms were so foreign to me.  So….I listened, watched and I learned.  Annealing is the process of softening the metal (copper, nickel, etc.) by heating it with a gas/air torch.  Me -- use a torch??  I don’t even like to light the BBQ grill :)

Pickling is the process of cleaning the soot off the torched or dirty metal from the annealing process.  Pickle is an acid (Sodium bisulfate).  I had no idea!

We also watched the instructor perform some stamping techniques. 

My assignment for the week is to design my bracelet link shape – I didn’t know I had to be so creative already!  I guess I will have to look on Etsy for some inspiration.

Note:  We are starting with a flat rectangular 4 x 2 piece of metal that will somehow be made into what I hope is a really cool bracelet.  I chose Nickel to work with because I love everything silver!  Wish me luck!

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The above picture contains some of the sample pieces that were made in previous classes

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This is the annealing process using the gas/air torch

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Some of the tools we will be using for stamping

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Free to use tool chest!



Comments

Alana said…
Wow--what a cool class! I can't wait to see how it turns out!
Tam said…
Thanks Alana, I will reveal my Bracelet Design next week! Thanks for stopping by, I appreciate it!
Jennifer M. said…
How interesting! I think it'd be super fun to take a jewelry-making class someday.
gold buyers said…
I have to agree with Jennifer that does look interesting. Thanks.
designer rings said…
Six weeks of jewelry designing? I wonder if that is everyday and how many hours each? That would be a lovely hobby for my retired mom to take. Albeit expensive too I suppose.
Tam said…
@ Designer Rings - the classes were once a week for 3 hours. The cost was only $50 plus $20 for lab fees.

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