Torch Fear to Torch Adoration – Fabricating Rings

by Diana White.
(United States)

London Blue Topaz in Scalloped Bezel Setting

It has been quite some time since I posted here to JMJ, not because I haven’t been making, but because I’ve been so busy between working my full-time career and handling custom orders through my shop, that I’ve had less time than I’d like to make new designs.

A couple of years ago I took a basic soldering class at RioGrande, and this past year I took a ring fabrication class through an adult continuing education class at a community college in Wisconsin.

Sterling Teardrop Shaped Pinky or Toe Ring

Through both of those experiences, having superb instructors, I was able to get past my phobia of using torches more powerful than the simple hand held butane torches.

And, I’m thrilled with some of the results. I am also quite enjoying using rotary tools, Grobet and my portable Foredom to speed up some of the finishing tasks.

Reclaimed Gold from an old 14kt Single Earring Nugget Ring on Sterling Hand Fabricated Shank

If you, also, are having a bit of torch fear, then I highly recommend finding a workshop or two.

Structured classes, can give you a bit of scaffolding to experiment with fire and other jewelry making techniques without a big investment in tools and equipment before you feel ready to use them.

Recycled Gold on Sterling Modern Design Ring, Brush finished Shank and High Polished Focal

Diana White
Mockingbird Lane Wire