Fusing is a simple way to permanently connect two pieces of metal using a torch, but without the use of solder. No solder means no solder clean up, which can often be frustrating and time consuming. For those intimidated by torches the projects in this book can provide a rather stress-free introduction. A small butane torch provides a suffient flame to solder wire and it is very easy to use.
Silver Wire Fusing by Liz Jones
Interweave Press 2008
120 pages
This book covers basic techniques such as making ball head pins and jump rings, hammering, chain assembly, tumbling, wire wrapping a loop, crimping and stringing, ring sizing, stamping, and using silver black patina.
Once fused, the author cleverly transforms round fine silver jump rings into a variety of shapes including ovals, hearts, teardrops, stars, squares, rectangles, diamonds, and octagons. Some of the projects incorporate cubic zirconium beads which are placed on jump rings prior to fusing the rings. Due to the soft nature of fine silver the finishing step for most of the pieces involves tumbling them for several hours.
The 20 projects include a variety of earrings, bracelets, rings, pendants, necklaces, and a key chain. The finished projects are contemporary and fun. Many of them will give you practice making chain. The “Shooting Star Earrings” feature silver wire stars with dangles of small silver rings and Swarovski crystals hanging from commercially made chain. The end of the book features a gallery of work to provide additional inspiration.
To complete the projects in this book you need a small butane torch, a fire brick, wire cutters, pliers, mandrels, a hammer and steel plate, a tumbler and shot. Materials needed include fine silver wire of various gauges, earwires, clasps, beads.
