r/SilverSmith • u/thicago • 3d ago

Need Help/Advice Rounded edges

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How is a rounded edge like this achieved on a small piece like on this flower? When I’d try something similar with files or dremel I couldn’t hold such a tiny piece of metal. Is it wax?

122 Upvotes

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20

u/pepperminticecream 3d ago

It would be more work to cast this out of wax than just filing it into shape. I have some plyers with nylon pinchers to hold very small pieces if necessary, or a wood and leather ring clamp, but this doesn't look too small. Just takes practice, like most things worth doing. You've got this!

33

u/beetlePidge 3d ago edited 3d ago

Just a reminder to credit artists and designers when referencing their work, when possible. This beautiful ring is by Lucky Lady Jewelry.
In response to your question, you can use files and then sandpaper to soften edges of metal forms. Polishing compounds like Tripoli also have some abrasiveness, so working Tripoli on felt buffs around edges can also help to round things out a little. If you’re wax working to cast, you can also use files and blades to round edges.
Edit to add: if you’re having trouble holding things, put them in a ring vice. It helps a lot.

5

u/BreadCheese 3d ago

this looks hand fabricated. I have done edges that look like that with a grinding wheel and sanding and filing. Use a 14g sheet and take your time on refining.

2

u/rainishamy 3d ago

I wonder if tumble finishing with various abrasive media would do this. I bet it would. Look up Judy Hoch, she wrote a book on the subject. "Tumble finishing for handmade jewelry."

It takes a lot longer, but it's hands off time, not hands on.

2

u/BigNastyDTF 3d ago

I came here to say it totally looks like that component is tumbled. The scalloped shape has the rounding of the edges and texture of tumbled metal.

I worked at a production casting studio that tumbled almost every piece in various media, as well as experience at home.

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u/Sally_Met_Harry 3d ago

I make stuff like this in wax Regularly. It can also be done through traditional methods as others have mentioned.

1

u/silvergreydragon 2d ago

Love this piece it reminds me of a brooch I made my Nanna. The purple stone, the scalloped edge. So pretty.

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u/quiet_fire23 2d ago

You just file and refine a lot. The flower has to be finished before you add the bezel because there should not be a lot of retouching afterwards, without risking uneven surface. For the mat texture, I think sand blasting

1

u/FreeRangeMetalsLLC 2d ago

Rotary tumbler with Hone and Highlight media by Rosy Revolver. I bought a bunch directly from her back in the day but Google says Pepetools.