debVdesigns

Adventures in Silver Broom Casting I invited a few girlfriends for lunch today and one of them suggested we do broom casting.  Two of the ladies took a class recently and the other two (myself included) were intrigued by the concept and willing to give it a try.   With a new crucible, the first step is to flux it.   First lesson:  "do not add borax (flux) until the crucible is very hot" or else it will fly everywhere. Makes sense, right - LOL I retreated to my bench to do the deed.  Once I  heated the crucible, I added a little borax (flux) to coat it. My first casting was using brass (copper for my second).   It took forever to melt, even with the addition of an additional torch. There was more success with the brass casting vs. the copper (exact opposite  of what I expected).   Not sure if the type of fuel is important, but I used mapp gas which could have been part of the problem, along with a slight breeze. I made one in silver one (scraps and discar

Natural bronzite beads compliment the Agate focal gemstone. It can be worn on either sides to change the look. Copper and Turquoise & Howlite The links, clasp, and bail are all handmade using copper wire. Red Jasper with Picasso Beads with double coiled copper beads. I like it when the whole piece is handmade, including all the links. Another example of how you can create beautiful components and links using wire.