Ring Drawing Frame
This is the final project in Stage 2 of the Silver Program at Jewellery Training Solutions. This is another project I hesitated on, but I’m determined to do each of the projects in the program (we are only required to do two in each level for certification). This one was challenging and I definitely ran into some issues, but I’m glad I pushed through it. Peter designed this frame to help visualize a ring when drawing it in perspective.
I must admit, even after writing about all of the projects to this point, I still find it very difficult to write about the problems I had and to point out all of the flaws! But, seeing flaws and being accountable for those flaws is what pushes us to grow and improve.
What were the challenges?
This project presented many challenges. The first one I had was in creating the ring in the middle. Another was getting the solder to flow where the pins attach to the flat plates.
Where could I improve?
I had definite issues when forming the middle ring. It was larger than any mandrel I currently have. so it was difficult to get round and flat. One edge flared a bit, making it larger from one side than the other, so it only fits into the frame in one direction. Also, when filing down the solder joint, too much thickness in that area was removed. The other issue was that one of the spacers didn’t get soldered. I realized after I got almost all the finishing done - I’m wondering if the solder just hadn’t fully flowed and I removed it all during finishing. I resoldered and refinished, only to find out that it still didn’t solder!
What did I learn?
This project reminded me that absolute care needs to be taken at each and every step. Because I didn’t have an absolutely perfect fit when originally soldering the ring, I ended up removing too much metal when cleaning up the joint. I also learned a fun tip - when using a round needle file, the teeth are such that it works in a counter-clockwise motion. If turning it clockwise it will bind up. I also learned that soldering is still my nemesis! I’m determined to conquer it.
]]> This is the final project in Stage 2 of the Silver Program at Jewellery Training Solutions. This is another project I hesitated on, but I’m determined to do each of the projects in the program (we are only required to do two in each level for certification). This one was challenging and I definitely ran into some issues, but I’m glad I pushed through it. Peter designed this frame to help visualize a ring when drawing it in perspective.