Like an intriguing little lens, or novelty toy from a bygone age, this charming bauble always opens a window for conversation. This tiny porthole is fun to make from ordinary hardware store copper pipe. Who knew? No prior experience required. You’ll learn a multitude of metalworking techniques in this class: sawing, tab setting and finishing as well as soldering with silver. This will be a slightly tedious class, so if fiddly little tiny projects is your thing, then join us! There’s nothing I love better than turning on tunes and getting lost in the metalworking process. And I can almost guarantee you’ll get constant compliments on your finished product!
Supply List:
- Copper pipe 3/4” (you’ll only need a short length of it, under a foot. You may want to make more than one if time allows)
- A hardware store pipe cutter- I got one at Home Depot for $10 (Get the stronger one, not the little plastic one, its too whimpy) Henery’s hardware in Port Townsend should have pipe and cutters. (360) 385-5900
- Artwork punched out to fit in your pipe, for inside your charms. You’ll need two separate images, front and back.
- three or four flat backed, round, clear (not iridescent) florist pebbles, the more circular the shape, the better. (Some are excessively oval)
- wet/dry sandpaper for metal 220 grit (they often come in an assortment pack which is great). Ace hardware usually has it. (not the blonde kind for wood) Henery’s hardware in Port Townsend may have some
- small mica sheet- usually Akamai in PT has it.
- scissors to cut mica
- a jeweler’s sawframe and sawblades #2/0 and/or smaller- try contenti.com
- a small metal benchblock and a portable benchpin OR my FAVORITE: a metal block/benchpin combo available here
- jewelry 8” long ½ round hand files #2 and #4 cut - these are $24+, but mine have lasted YEARS and I wouldn’t be without them! Available here If you don’t want to get your own since they are pricey, I will bring mine for you to try. But keep in mind you’ll be sharing with the class. FYI: Most people who try them, and do a lot of jewelry, end up LOVING them.
- Ranger Glossy Accents, I’ll bring a bottle too.
- Any jewelry working tools of your own you already have like files (if you don’t have any yet, you might want to wait and try mine)
Optional items:
- Tiny 1/16” metal stamps and hammer for them- I will bring some to share but you may want your own
- tweezers- they might come in handy
- A pre-made chain for your bracelet or necklace
- If you’re attaching your pendant you may need jewelry pliers
Teacher will provide:
- solder
- soldering tools and torches
- washers
- various other grits of sandpaper
- some tubing for bails
