Jewelry Making Processes

Click on the links below to see a PDF of the text version of the story. Be aware that magazine stories go through an editing process. What I send in may not look like what you see in the magazine.

Lost Wax Casting

Casting call AJ 01 12Making the Casting Call.” Lost wax casting is an ancient, versatile process that allows you to make just about anything you can imagine. But it also requires very high heat, torches, high-silica plaster, and a learning curve. For jewelry makers who can’t or don’t want to do their own casting, here’s how to work with a professional casting house. Click here for PDF.

Lost Wax Casting LJ Feb 2001Finding Your Way Through Lost Wax Casting.” The lost wax cast process is very straightforward, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t pitfalls along the way. Experienced casters share their wisdom. Click here for PDF.

 

Thirty-six Tips, Tricks and Tools for Better Wax Working.” Wax working is a time-honored way to make jewelry with simple tools. It’s not difficult to learn, but these tips from highly experienced wax workers can reduce the time it takes.

CAD/CAM

CAD for Jewelry Artisans cover“CAD for Jewelry Artisans.” Love it or hate it, computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) are here to stay. Here’s your basic introduction to CAD/CAM. Click here for PDF.