Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> Comments on: Fusing fine silver jump rings http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/ All about jewelry and creativity Wed, 17 Aug 2011 18:45:22 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.1 By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62319 Leah Sat, 09 Oct 2010 02:45:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62319 I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty - maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process? My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem... I have occasionally had that problem too. I suspect that the wire is slightly tarnished or dirty – maybe there is some residue left on it from the polishing process?
My best guess is to try cleaning the wire or pickling it a bit to make sure there is no oxidation. Good luck, and maybe someone else can respond who has more experience with the problem…

]]> By: Alexis http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-62311 Alexis Sat, 09 Oct 2010 01:20:05 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-62311 Hi Leah... Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual "success" I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn't seem to have the same "attraction" at the fusing seam that I am used to... it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I'd like. I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier. Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-) - Alexis Hi Leah…

Thank you for posting this straightforward information. I have actually been fusing fine silver for a while now, but I have been having some challenges recently. It seems like the actual “success” I have with fusing fine silver (16g in this case) can depend on the batch of silver that I am working with. Has this been your experience? This latest batch that I am working off of doesn’t seem to have the same “attraction” at the fusing seam that I am used to… it is making my projects more challenging, and I find that I am trashing (saving the scraps, of course!) more than I’d like.

I should also say that my process has stayed exactly the same, and I purchased my wire from the same supplier that I always use, and it is a reputable supplier.

Thank you so much if you are able to offer any commentary/advice! :-)

- Alexis

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-58353 Leah Wed, 08 Sep 2010 18:03:48 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-58353 Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times - works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion. Hi Tina, tumbling is a good way to work harden metal. It depends what you are fusing whether or not you actually *need* to work harden it. Some things are stable enough without it. I like to use a tumbler for polishing and work hardening, but if you just need to toughen up the metal, using a rubber mallet works better. You just whack the fused rings a few times – works great, and cheaper than buying a tumbler and steel shot. As far as fusing versus soldering, if you are using regular sterling silver, soldering will be much more precise than fusing, but if you are using fine silver or argentium fusing is easier & quicker, in my opinion.

]]> By: Tina http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-57649 Tina Thu, 02 Sep 2010 23:02:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-57649 I've read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish? Thanks for you help! I’ve read that you need to tumble the piece you fused with metal shot in a rock tumbler AFTER fusing to work harden your peice. Is this true? Also, would you prefer to Fuse or Solder? Do you get the same results for both or is one better than the other depending on what you are trying to accomplish?

Thanks for you help!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34286 Leah Fri, 22 May 2009 22:56:27 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34286 Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn't need to be dead soft - any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps! Gabriele, any firebrick will work. In a pinch, I once used a brick that was sitting in my parents back yard, and it worked fine. The wire doesn’t need to be dead soft – any fine silver wire will work. Cross lock tweezers & a propane plumbers torch are things you can get at a hardware store. Hope this helps!

]]> By: gabriele http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-34282 gabriele Fri, 22 May 2009 21:36:12 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-34282 OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can't find a simple "You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire....". I can't find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you! OMG! It is sooo hard to simply find info on what to buy to do fine silver fusing. I am reading, googling, and can’t find a simple “You need to use a [kind of white fire brick], tweezers, and dead soft wire….”. I can’t find the brick or any help in finding the stuff! Please help if you know these answers-thank you!

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30717 Leah Sat, 28 Feb 2009 01:05:34 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30717 I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it's still seconds, not minutes. I have no idea if the room temp matters or not. But I can tell you that four minutes is WAY too long. Using my propane torch, it takes seconds to fuse fine silver jump rings, or ball ends for head pins. Thicker wire such as 16g or 14g takes a bit longer than, say, the 24g I use for pearl head pins, but it’s still seconds, not minutes.

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30713 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 21:26:49 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30713 Leah - I think you're right! This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that's too long, don't you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can't get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS. I can't even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won't melt. Does the temperature of the room matter? I'm in my garage in Pennsylvania and it's about 30 degrees. Thanks so much for your help - I really appreciate it! Maria Leah –
I think you’re right!

This Ronson butane torch from Wal-Mart is just not getting hot enough. Although the box says it reaches 2500F, I have my doubts. When I fused on a soldering board, I was able to get the silver to the melting point, but it took about four minutes for each ring. I think that’s too long, don’t you? Now I am trying to make head pins for the rivets for the project called More Bangle for Your Buck in the May 2008 issue of Art Jewelry Magazine and I can’t get the ends to ball up on 16 gauge FS.
I can’t even get the 18 gauge to ball up either. The ends glow bright red but they simply won’t melt.

Does the temperature of the room matter? I’m in my garage in Pennsylvania and it’s about 30 degrees.

Thanks so much for your help – I really appreciate it!
Maria

]]> By: Leah http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30699 Leah Fri, 27 Feb 2009 06:01:09 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30699 Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame - so it's possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck! Butane is a relatively cool burning fuel, and most butane torches only allow you to use a small flame – so it’s possible that your torch is just *barely* hot enough to melt 16g fine silver, and that is the problem. Have you tried fusing 18 or 20g? If you have better results with thinner wire, then the problem is mostly likely that you need a torch that burns hotter fuel (such as propane or oxy/acetylene). Another common problem is not getting the wire ends completely flush together. For metal to fuse well, it needs to be filed smooth so that you have a really good, clean join where you want it to fuse together. Also, metal should be clean where you want it to fuse. You could try using a piece of fine sandpaper to buff off any dirt or oil that may be present on the surface of your wire. Good luck!

]]> By: Maria http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/comment-page-1/#comment-30689 Maria Fri, 27 Feb 2009 00:04:15 +0000 http://www.michondesign.com/jewelry-blog/2006/02/06/fusing-fine-silver-jump-rings/#comment-30689 I have been learning how to fuse and my butane torch sometimes melts the wire but other times doesn't. Tonight I can't get it to melt at all. I'm frustrated. I'm using 16 gauge FS wire. Any ideas what I'm doing wrong? I have been learning how to fuse and my butane torch sometimes melts the wire but other times doesn’t. Tonight I can’t get it to melt at all. I’m frustrated. I’m using 16 gauge FS wire. Any ideas what I’m doing wrong?

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