Metalwork In Progress

Posted on April 25, 2007 by Leah
I started a new fused silver pendant last night. Since metalwork is such a mysterious process to many people, I thought I'd post a picture of what it looks like on my soldering pad at the moment. It definitely still needs some work, but I think it will be a good one when it's done: fused silver pendant - in progress
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3 Responses to Metalwork In Progress

  1. Cynthia Martin says:
    April 26, 2007 at 9:28 am

    Hi Again, I am taking metalsmith work at the art school here in HOuston at the Museum of Fine Arts – Glassell. It is wonderful. Trying to add a new dimension to my beading. Could you give me some details about this piece you soldered? What guage rod did you use for the main base? What guage is the smaller swirly pieces. Are they bezel wire? Did you have to use flux at all? I have some earrings I just fused with this type of swirly extensions and it was a mess but I finished them. I had to flux a piece or two to work. can I load a photo up for you to see?
    How will this piece be worn? A Pendant? It’s wild and crazy. love it.
    Also, when I submit a comment, how can I come back and see your response?

  2. Administrator says:
    April 26, 2007 at 9:47 am

    Thanks Cynthia – I just sent you an email reply to some of your questions. Fusing is tricky & just takes practice to get the results that you want. If I’m not paying attention, it’s easy to melt the metal too much. You can use any gauge of metal, but I like to use a thicker gauge for the base of my pieces so they are durable.
    I didn’t use flux yet on this piece, but I probably will for the next step. A little bit of flux helps when I’m using Argentium silver, but you don’t need it for fine silver. I think you always need flux for soldering though, or the solder itself won’t melt correctly.
    If you post a link to your picture in the comments, I will definitely go look at it!

    -Leah

  3. Wholesale Jewelry Store says:
    June 4, 2007 at 1:30 am

    Nice Jewelry Collection !!