by Carol Rucker

Created on: May 19, 2009   Last Updated: May 24, 2009

Create a Pendant by Soldering Layers of Sterling Silver and Wire

If you already create handcrafted jewelry, a few basic soldering techniques can give you an extra creative edge. Using the simple technique of layering sterling silver sheet and wire shapes and then soldering them into place, you can create a pendant with a three dimensional feel and an artistic, one of a kind flair.

To create your pendant, you may begin the easy way by purchasing die cut shapes from a jewelry supply catalog; but for a one of a kind creation, start out with piece s you design and cut out yourself, abstract shapes perhaps or whatever shape you choose. See How to Create Simple Metalwork Jewelry for sawing techniques.

Once you have a large sterling silver piece cut in a desirable shape, a smaller one to solder on top and a coil of sterling silver wire for an added design element, your next step is soldering, using a blowtorch to fuse the separate elements into one piece.

Basic Soldering Equipment-

Some of the same catalogs that sell beading supplies also have tools catalogs with soldering equipment and supplies. Below is a list of the basics found in catalogs followed by a few less expensive options available at your local hardware store:

Blow torch- The torch is actually the brass head, connectors, hoses and gauges you attach to a tank of fuel or a dual fuel/oxygen and fuel options available:: Propane only for basic hea; Mapp Gas, for slightly higher heat; Propane/Oxygen combination, for high heat; Acetylene - for high heat; Little Torch- Propane/Oxygen , capable of a very small high heat flame

Fuel- A simple torch with a disposable propane tank should suffice for a beginning project. Propane, Oxygen and Mapp Gas are available from a hardware store. For Acetylene or other refillable tanks, check your local directory for soldering, brazing or welding supplies.

Soldering tripod-As the name implies, this is a three legged metal stand that elevates your work surface. It has a detachable wire mesh platform to hold pieces for soldering.

Soldering pan- a round metal pan mounted on a turntable to rotate as you work. It usually comes filled with heat-absorbing, lava rocks, usable as a base for annealing metal. Placing your tripod in a soldering pan protects work surfaces from heat and sparks.

Soldering blocks- used to lay out your project before soldering, absorbs heat and distributes it uniformly beneath your piece.

Striker- a metal gadget with screw-in flint pieces,

• 1
• 2
• 3
• Next Page >>