Here are 6 SAWING TIPS from @lucywalkerjewellery her online Metalsmith Academy is now open for registration! I have done Lucy’s classes and they are PHENOMENAL, I can’t recommend them enough! Link in my profile!!
1: Thinner metal such as 24 gauge is 100% more difficult to work with. This misconception is super common with those new to saw piercing, I see so many ok projects that could have looked exceptional if they’d only been done with thicker metal. It’s actually much easier to get a more refined, crisp looking result when using thicker metal. Start practicing with 18 gauge (1mm) sheet.
2: Saw piercing tip number 2! And this one is one of the main reasons for all those snapped blades! Make sure to flex the frame as you attach your blade to get it nice and tight in there. To test the tightness, ping the blade with your fingernail – if it’s good and tight, it should make a high pitched sound.
3: Focus on posture. We shouldn't be hunching over our work. Sit comfortably, but sit straight. We should be working at about booby height (when wearing a good bra).
4: When choosing saw blades, bigger is definitely not better in this case. You'll know if your blade is too big for the job because it will feel like a jittery asshole as you try to saw. You'll be able to feel it really catching on the metal. So if you're struggling, try switching out to a smaller blade and see if that helps.
5: Don’t use cheap saw blades, just don't do it! it's not worth the drama.
6: Start with the blade perpendicular to the metal. If it’s tilted forward, the teeth will catch on the edge of the metal and your saw will act all jittery. Keep it perpendicular and start sawing by applying zero forward pressure. If you’re still struggling, do a couple of upstrokes with your sawblade first to make a small notch using your thumb nail as a guide. and if you’re still struggling, try sawing into the bench pin for the first few strokes, you'll be surprised at just how smoothly things feel with this little trick.
You can also find free resources and downloads over on Lucy’s blog: lucywalkerejewellery.com/blog
