metalsmithing
Handmade Jewelry: Types and Techniques
Curious what makes handmade jewelry so different from mass-produced? Learn about the different categories of handmade jewelry and some of the techniques for each one.
Jewelry Wire Work Tips from Melissa Muir
Learn wire jewelry frame fabrication tips from one of our preferred studio teachers, Melissa Muir. She shows you step by step how to make this gorgeous wire work cuff using Halstead’s Sterling silver supplies and a beautiful cabochon!
Top 5 Reasons Silver Solder Doesn't Flow
by Erica Stice
Solder not flowing? Find out the reasons why. Jewelry soldering can be frustrating at times, but with the right knowledge, you can quickly troubleshoot the problems.
Soldering Copper & Brass Metals in the Jewelry Studio
by Erica Stice
Copper and brass are fun materials to work with in the jewelry studio. They are beautiful in their own right and they are perfect for learning new techniques. But, soldering these metals raises unique issues in design and technical execution. Learn more from our studio coordinator, Erica Stice.
How to Pick Solder in the Jewelry Studio
by Erica Stice
If you have a small piece or want a precise join without a lot of solder flowing, learn to pick solder. Pick soldering minimizes solder messes and heat on your jewelry piece to prevent melting disasters. Add this skill to your bench resume today.
How to Sweat Solder 14kt Gold to Sterling Silver
by Erica Stice
Use 14kt gold solder ornaments on sterling silver jewelry blanks to create unique mixed metal jewelry pieces. Erica Stice is breaking down the sweat soldering process so you can add this great technique to your jewelry making skills.
Learn Sawing From Our 2019 Featured Metalsmith, Julie Sanford
We are proud to present Julie Sanford as the 2019 Halstead Catalog featured metalsmith. Learn more about Julie, check out her tips for using the jeweler's saw, and watch her demo video in this article.
Types of Silver Solder Used in Jewelry
by Erica Stice
Many jewelers remember falling in love with metalsmithing at their first torch soldering experience. That mercurial silver flash when solder starts to flow is magical. But, what is actually happening at that moment? What is the science behind soldering?
How to Set Geodes & Slabs
by Erica Stice
Setting geodes and slabs can be challenging at times but this blog will cover the two basic settings to get you started. Both require basic soldering skills.
Metal Alloys Used in Jewelry
by Erica Stice
Learn how the structure of metal and the properties of different alloys impact common materials in jewelry creation. As a jeweler, there is nothing more rewarding than learning how to take your designs from paper to metal form.
