QuestionI've dabbled a bit with bending silverware handles over a ring mandrel and making simple keychains-I believe there is a much easier way to bend the metal with heat-can you tell me about it-I have small tanks-propane or whatever but haven't a clue how to use them-also have welding tanks in my dad's shop that I can use once I learn how-would really appreciate any and all information you can give me on makin g silverware jewlery-I find the patterns fascinating and would love to do it as a hobby-Also, how does one get the nice patina I've seen-I have a grinder with a buffing wheel on it and use red rouge but I can never seem to get the luster I've seen on items I've viewed at craftfairs. Thank-you for your help-don't suppose there's a book on this artform?
AnswerGreetings,
I assume that you are using old nickel flatware to create you piece, which can be identified by an EPNS stamp on the shaft.
This material cannot be worked hot and for that matter is more difficult to work whilst hot. Also you may find that it cracks or splits using this method.
My advice would be to anneal them first which is achieved by heating the piece evenly until it is cherry red and then allow to air cool. You will find that this removes most of the forge tension from the creation of the cutlery.
To achieve a good finish you probably need to etch clean them first in a 10% sulphuric acid and water solution, which works cold or better at around 40C. This will remove surface oxide.
When polishing you probably need to - possibly file first with a cut 2 file to remove dents - use emery paper 600 grit then 1200 grit to remove scratches from the piece followed by polishing with tripoli compound with a hard stitched mop, then finally finished using a swansdown mop and rouge..........this will achieve the lustre which you are talking about.
Good luck and happy forging.
Cheers, Peter
