Here are some amazing, simple modifications for a brand new bench pin, huge thank you to @alexboydstudio for sharing these process shots with us! To modify the pin- “I used a jeweler’s saw with a #3 blade, a half-round file, a round file, and a pencil... more
This is my review of the GEMZOOM Macro Lens Adapter Kit for Cellphones (should work with all types of galaxy, android, iPhones, iPads etc.) You can purchase from ottofrei.com and use code MMS719 to save 5% on your purchase (through 7/1/19)
For this week’s #tooltalktuesday I wanted to give my honest review of the Gem Zoom U 10X Macro Cell Phone Lens Adapter (compatible with all Galaxy and Android smart phones and the following iPhones: X, 8, 8plus, 7, 7plus, 6, 6s, 6splus, 5, 5s,5SE and... more
Here is a tip for making your own burnishers to cut silver (like the inside/outside of a bezel) from @jewelrymonk - “I took an inexpensive steel wax probe, or awl, and trimmed, sharpened, and polished it. One is a point and the other is sharpened to... more
Here is a tip for keeping a heavy gauge ring together while soldering - use stainless steel binding wire! Simply wrap it around and then use a pair of pliers to twist closed. I personally like 20-24 gauge binding wire but you can find uses for all... more
Here is a wonderful, inexpensive tool for sanding your edges nice and soft from @tranquilgoddess - “I always like to create a smooth edge to my pieces by using these sandpaper blocks! 👌🏻 You’ll see in the video I sand at an angle to ensure there isn’t... more
Here is a tip for utilizing a collet block to file a setting from @paulcoyne - “This tip is useful when making bezel settings. It can be tough to file the top of a bezel setting accurately, I use my bezel block as a filing guide place the setting in... more
Here is a fabulous setting tip for those that have a flexshaft that goes in reverse from @andrewberryuk - “Want to have more control when cutting seats in claws? Have a problem with the setting burr grabbing the claw and running around it? Try... more
One of the most common questions is: what gauge bezel wire should I purchase? Here are some tips for ordering BEZEL WIRE from @riogrande. It typically comes in gauges 24 (.51mm) - 30 (.25mm) and in various heights. First, let’s focus on gauge. If you... more
For this week’s #tooltalktuesday I wanted to discuss my Technique Quick Change Handpiece (for 3/32” tools), I gotta start by saying even though I’ve made jewelry on and off since I was in high school I have never used a quick change handpiece. I think... more
Here is a genius way to color code mandrels from @sandrasommerdesign - “Nail polish is a great way to color code on metal. I use my flex shaft to polish work. Here I am about to use the Luxor compounds for the first time. A little dash of nail polish... more
Here is a tip for cleaning up curved surfaces like the inside of a dome! I use 3m Radial Bristle Discs, you stack 2-4 on a screw mandrel and they are fantastic for using inside curved surfaces! Biggest thing to watch out for is you don’t want to... more
I love a good organization tip, here is one from @kaypeajewelry -“A mail organizer works really good to store pliers!” Simple and awesome! Thank you so much for sharing this idea with us! Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend! If you have some... more
Here is a tool (and a stretch) for some self care in your studio from @wellnessformakers - “It is beneficial to incorporate massage into your daily routine, and you can do it without leaving the comfort of your own studio. Harmony Rollers are great... more
Here is a tip for protecting a gemstone during resizing from @vuthejeweller - “People ask me how I resize rings without cracking the stone, especially cubic zirconia in silver. As silver needs high heat to solder this can lead to stones cracking. The... more
Here is a fun #diy lathe tip from @maloupaul_jewellery - “I don't have a lathe, but would love to have one. So instead, we just used a hard felt polishing stick on our polishing machine to hold the wax ring. To cut the wax ring we use some of our... more
For this week’s #tooltalktuesday I wanted to show the Foredom® H.15D hammer handpiece. This model includes the “duplex spring” which provides extra flexibility, there is also the H.15 model but I have never used it so I can’t compare the two. I do... more
Here is a technique for holding a bail in place while soldering from @shinynotions - “I use a honeycomb soldering board with pins. Pins help hold the pieces in place and you can put some under the metal to lift if needed.” Thank you @youmnaelsabry who... more
Here is a tip for organizing your pieces and keeping track of costs from @foxandblue -“I use a Jewellery Making Journal (I have a whole stack!) which can be found on amazon! It has amazing sections for pricing each product and you can draw it or add a... more
Here is a technique for drilling holes in your work without skidding or breaking a drill bit - I always take my center punch and a rawhide mallet and make a small indentation where I plan to drill. This extra step is a necessity for me because it... more
