Torch Fired Earrings I, II, III, IV DIY Tutorial

Foldforming is a technique that lets you turn a flat sheet of metal into a three dimensional object. This way of manipulating sheet metal can also add a lot of texture to it. In this tutorial we will fold a piece of metal sheet many times to give it a eye catching texture. We will add to this texture with stamped designs intermixed with the folds. Once finished with the textured metal sheet we will cut out and shape a pair of round cabochons and a tear-shaped one. The cabochons will then be framed in sterling silver using a combination bezel-tab setting for a spectacular set of earrings and pendant. The step-by-step instructions includes how to apply and preserve colored patinas for a different look on the copper cabochons. This tutorial is an instant downloading PDF file. It has 16 pages, 54 photos and life size template of all the components. For intermediate skill students.

Corrugation is a metalworking technique that lets you pleat a metal sheet. These pleated sheet can be used in many jewelry making projects as they are lightweight but strong. Torch fired enamels are a good alternative to try enameling without making the big investment of buying a kiln. You will need a gas burning torch, a steel tripod & mesh, a couple of metal trivets and of course copper enamels! If buying enamels for the first time get a sample pack of opaques, they will be easier to use than transparents (you can try those later). Learn a new set of skills. Combine the amazing texture of corrugation with colorful torch enameling and you will have an eye-catching pendant to wear. This tutorial is an instant downloading PDF file. It has 12 pages, 35 photos and life size template of all the components. For intermediate skill students (torch use experience recommended)

End caps are one of the things I prefer to buy rather than make, but sometimes you HAVE to make them (color, texture or shape needs to match the rest of your necklace.) This was the case with the necklace I made last week, I had silver end caps and copper end caps but nooo... brass end caps. So had to get out the brass tubing, sheet and wire and get to work! This is a FREE PDF file for instant downloading.

Want to try something new? foldforming ,a patina , riveting, it all can be done in a smaller format. A pair of earrings, a ring, a charm or small link element for a bracelet, are ideal to try out new techniques. You can try many different things with a minimum use of material in a short time. If you like the way your experiment came out, use it. If you don’t like the way your sample came out, put it away for another day when inspiration strikes and you can use it in a completely new way. Now try your newly acquired skill on multiple small pieces for a bracelet or go for a bigger format, try making a pendant. This is a FREE PDF file for instant downloading.