Techniques

Nancy LT Hamilton

Last updated: 10/14/22, 4/18/22, 10/10/21, 8/27/22, 5/26/18, 11/25/17

Please see my Disclaimers Page.

In the following pages, I will discuss the techniques I use.  Although, as I learn more, some of these pages may change.  These techniques are not necessarily the best nor the only ways to create jewelry  –  they are my methods and techniques.   Please use them as a guide and adapt them as you see fit.  It’s all about experimentation, exploration, and joy!

• Chains – free instructions on two chains, a little history, and a discussion
• Chasing and Repousse´
  • Pitch
• Cleaning Metal
• Cutting Metal Discs 
• DIY Tools and Storage
• Etching with photopolymer resists
• How to make Ear Nuts
• Fancy Wire
• Finding the Center of a Disc or Circle
• Finishing Jewelry
• Hinges
• Jump Rings 
• Making Washers (not released yet) But, there is a video on this topic!  Making Metal Washers
• Measuring Wire and Sheet Metal
• Patinas
• Pin Backs or Brooch Backs – Jewelry Making
• Photoshop Tutorial – Image to Line Drawing
• Projects
• Rivets
  • Basic Rivets
  • Tube Rivets
• Sanding
• Sculpt Nouveau Patinas and Metal Finishes
• Soldering
  • The 4 Steps for Successful Soldering
  • About Solder
  • Acetylene Gas – Tanks, Gas, Setup, Safety. This is a HUGE page.  I cover regulators, the history of acetylene, transporting gas cylinders, Mapp gas, propylene gas, oxygen, leak checking, tank storage, hoses, flashback arrestors, and of course, all things acetylene, etc.  Lots of information.
  • On Flashback Arrestors
  • On Pickle, Acid, Crock Pots, and Baking Soda
  • Oxidation, Flux, and Firescale/stain Prevention
  • Soldering 101
  • Soldering in a Nutshell – my list of basic necessities for soldering.
  • Soldering Stone Settings
  • Using an Oxygen Concentrator for Soldering
• Stones and Stone Setting
  • Soldering Stone Settings
  • Bezel Making and Setting
  • Flush Setting
  • Marquise Setting for Faceted and Cabochon Stones
  • Setting A Pear Shaped Stone
  • Settings for Irregularly Shaped Stones and Objects
  • The Split Card Setting
• Texturing Metal
• Tubes, Clips, and End Caps

Note: Nancy L. T. Hamilton and Bella Luloo Jewelry are NOT responsible for any injury, damage, or health issues resulting from or even remotely related to these posts!  You understand that you and only you are accountable for your decisions and actions!  Take care and USE COMMON SENSE when working with any material or following any procedure that is even slightly a health risk!!!!!!!!!  You are responsible for being aware of what constitutes a health risk.

YOUR actions and improper use of materials and equipment can result in death or serious injury. Never work when mentally impaired, in any way, and follow all safety precautions, manufacturer’s instructions, and the material’s safety and datasheets. (What is MSDS?)   There are multiple sources for finding MSDS sheets.  Most companies have these sheets available.  You should check with the manufacturer before using any products you are unfamiliar with or unsure of.  Here is only one source for finding a variety of MSDS sheets:  EHSO (Environment, Health, and Safety Online).  You can also check with OSHA – Occupational Safety and Health Administration –  if you are unsure of safe practices.