Kiln Electric Used
Everyday Household items which can be used in Jewellery Making
The ubiquitous slow cooker is likely to be found in more metals studios than in kitchens. It’s a perfect example of a purpose-specific device being used in a different environment for a different reason. (A family cooks a meal in one and a jeweller uses it to heat pickle for cleaning metal). I use many such repurposed objects and tools in my studio. I’ve found that when you shop outside the box, you avoid the word jewellers in front of an item’s name, and that usually means it is less expensive. For example, think of the price tag for a generic slow cooker versus a fictitious Jeweller Pro 3000 deflux deluxe.
I’ve always enjoyed lost wax casting but when I started hunting for a steam dewaxer, I found that commercial units cost upwards of £300. While shopping for unrelated items I found an electric deep fryer on sale for £30. All that was required was to use a pair of hand shears to trim the steel fryer basket and I had a low-tech steam de-waxer. The upside-down basket can support three 10.2 x 7.6cm flasks and does a terrific job melting most waxes.
Hardware shops are treasure troves for handmade jewellery makers. Rather than buying expensive tool steel to make your own punches, stamps and chasing tools, just get some large flat nails, like those used for masonry. They’re designed to be driven into a concrete block and are very tough. And, enamellists, you can use a mason’s trowel to lift hot pieces from your kiln.
When I need good quality straight, round files for fractional diameters, I buy chainsaw sharpening files. They’re sturdy and inexpensive, and there’s now waiting for the delivery to arrive.
Lacking a personal ring mandrel while still at university, I found a substitute in the form of a tapered centre punch. The larger end is equal to a size V ring. It still sees service as a jump ring mandrel all these years later.
I struggle for years cutting steel cable with mixed results until I bicycle cable cutters online from a bike supply company. What a difference; no more frayed ends! These cutters don’t care if you’re cutting jeweller’s stainless steel or a brake cable; they’re up to the task.
Has the striker for lighting your torch stopped working? The pond shop beckons with butane barbeque lighters in designer colours. When the gas is empty you can carefully pry open the lighter like an oyster to yield a piezo crystal. This crystal is enclosed in a little plastic unit with a push button at one end and a wire sticking out of the other. Press the button and a good sized spark of electricity will jump off the wire.
About the Author
Michael Dennison is the Director of Jewellery Design for Hanfords of London. Since joining the company in early 2010 Michael has worked tirelessly in updating the Handmade Jewellery collection, whilst bringing new ideas and techniques to the manufacturing process. He is currently devoting a lot of time to the Company’s range of Handmade Necklaces which is constantly growing and improving. Hanfords of London as a company that also specialises in Chain Maille Jewellery, Handmade Rings, Handmade Pendants, Handmade Earrings, Handmade Bangles and Handmade Bracelets.
Fuser 87″ Glass Kiln With Infinitely Variable Power Switch
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AMACO Polymer Clay & Craft Oven $40.94 This handy countertop oven is perfect for warming/baking polymer clays or any craft product requiring heat up to 300 degrees fahrenheit or 149 degrees celsius. It includes a 30 minute timer to prevent over-baking and free projects with the instruction book. Operates on standard household current. Stainless steel. Outer dimensions: 16″W x 8-1/4″H x 10-1/4″D. Inside dimensions: 11″ x 7-1/2″ x 5 from… |
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Alex Deluxe Pottery Wheel with AC Adapter $45.28 Your child can become a pottery pro with a real pottery wheel and a variety of included tools! Mould, shape, sculpt, and paint your own pot or vase! When you’re done, the clay will air dry overnight. Electric foot pedal makes it so the wheel really spins! This comes with an AC adapter…. |
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