Newsletter - February 10, 2010

The Jewelry Crafter

A newsletter for the home jeweler

This newsletter will be published every 2 weeks, and will include hints and tips for your jewelry business. Any feedback or comments about the topics presented here are always appreciated. Click here to e-mail us.

If you have an idea for an upcoming article, or would like to submit an article for the newsletter, please contact us. Anyone who submits an article will receive a permanent link to their website in a special section of our link pages.

New Stock Update:

We have received some new acrylic cameos this week - Including blue Mother and Child (40x30 and 25x18), tan Lady Rose (40x30 and 25x18) and blue Lady with a Bird (40x30).

Caring For Your Tools

By

Mary Harvey

Whether you make wire jewelry, beaded jewelry, metal clay or chain maille, the most important pieces of equipment that you have are your tools. Tools are an investment, and you need to take care of them to keep them in good working order. This week, we will discuss how maintain your tools.

Jewelry tools are made from either stainless steel or carbon steel. Stainless steel is corrosion and rust resistant, but still can rust if not taken care of properly. These tools need to be wiped down and lightly oiled periodically to prevent any corrosion from forming. This is especially important if you live in a damp, humid or marine environment. 

The other type of metal used in tools is carbon steel. Carbon steel is harder than stainless steel, which is why cutters are usually made from it. Many high-quality pliers are also made from carbon steel. The drawback for carbon steel tools is that they are prone to rust and corrosion. Care must be taken to remove any rust or corrosion as soon as it is noticed, or it can cause pitting. To remove corrosion from carbon steel, use a Scotch Brite pad, steel wool or very fine sandpaper, and wipe the tool down with a good quality oil, like 3-in-1 or Sewing Machine oil. WD 40 can be used, but it evaporates more quickly than oil. 

In addition to hand tools, mandrels can also show rust and corrosion. Large bracelet or neck collar mandrels that are not plated will rust eventually if not kept oiled. Remove any surface rust or corrosion using the same method as above, and apply a light coat of oil. 

All tools and mandrels, whether stainless or carbon steel, should be stored away from moisture and humidity. A tool box or tool pouch with a desiccant (those little bags of crystals found in the packing of electronics or other products), or plastic bags are good for storing tools. 

Your tools are an investment. Without them, you can’t make jewelry, so be sure to take good care of your tools, and they will give you many years of service.

Custom Jewelry Supply - Supplies for the Jewelry Designer or Wire Artist

The Jewelry Crafter Archive - Back issues full of useful information for your jewelry business

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