Just Hot Enough: Mixed Metal Surfaces

Numerous beautiful and complex mixed-metal patterns and compositions can be created both by soldering and by exploiting the different melting points of common jewelry metals. In this workshop we will explore various ways of combining metals to create rich effects through experimentation with soldering, fusion and inlay, further enhanced by rolling and roll-printing and the application of a series of simple patinas that enhance the contrast between metals. The main focus will be on using metal scraps and powder to create “yardage” which can then be used- much like mokume-gane- as a part of finished jewelry pieces. Emphasis will be on understanding the ways in which the properties of different metals can be fully exploited to create rich and unexpected effects. (Extra-thick copper, Nu-gold, gold/silver bimetal and Frip’s Flux in spray bottles will be available for purchase from the instructor.) Some Materials Included

Prerequisites:

• Beginning Series or equivalent required, intermediate advanced

Materials Included:

• -Copper and brass to make samples
  -Soldering supplies

Students Must Bring:

• -Some things from the list below!

Students May Bring:

• -Cash or check payable to instructor if you wish to purchase: Extra-thick copper, Nu-gold, gold/silver bimetal and Frip’s Flux in spray bottles
  -Any thick (12G +) copper, Sterling, Nu-gold (Dix-gold/Jeweler’s Bronze/rich low brass) sheet that you have. (Metalliferous sells it as “rich low brass” in both 12 & 8G)
  -18 and/or 22K Gold/silver bimetal sheet (some will be available for purchase) or you can buy a few square inches from Hauser-Miller. The workshop is about making a little go a long way!
  -“Interesting” scraps from your scrap bin. All non-ferrous metals, including sterling- including both wire and sheet. Cut outs and cool small shapes are the best.
  -Any silver or gold granules that you might have lying around.
  -Filings (lemel) of silver, gold or other nonferrous metals. These must be CLEAN of all steel filings or sawblade shards. Use a magnet to extract ALL steel!
  -Any metal stamps, dies or chasing tools that you have that might make a good repeated pattern
  -Copper or brass mesh or window screen. MUST NOT be steel or aluminum!!!!
  -Small brass hardware parts (nails, screws, washers). Again, these MUST NOT be plated steel.
  -Roll-printing materials such as: 3 x 5 cards, manila folders, construction paper, tulle, nylon screen, cloth scraps, cheesecloth, tamale wrappers (hojas de maiz), lace, etc.
  Remember; nothing that is harder than the rolling-mill roller (such as sandpaper)!!!!! Beware of steel wires along the edge of ribbons!!!
  -Rio Rubber PSA Mandrel https://www.riogrande.com/Product/rubber-mandrel/337234
  -Some PSA sanding disks (220, 320 grit are best. No need for finer)
  https://www.riogrande.com/Product/3M-PSA-Sanding-Discs/337253