So you want to learn how to silversmith?
After years of admiring other silversmiths' work, I finally decided to dive into the deep end and give it a shot - and I've been addicted ever since! This is certainly not the most affordable hobby either - I mean, who can resist pretty rocks?!
The most basic project you can start with is a simple sterling silver stacker ring. This project will give you an understanding of how to use basic tools, how to solder, and how to choose your metal.
The tools and supplies below range from cheap/entry-level to some items that are worth spending the extra coin on.
Tools
$8.99 on Amazon - Pliers are tools you simply can't Smith without. This is very much a beginner set, but it can get the job done for now. You'll need these for snipping, bending, and manipulating your wires.
$18.95 on Amazon - This is another staple you'll need at your bench. When I first started I actually had trouble with this saw, but later learned it was the saw blades that were actually the problem.
$24.99 on PepeTools.com - Save yourself the frustration and upgrade to these blades. It will save you on costly mistakes when sawing your silver.
*Note: you can get away with using flush cutters to cut your wire for a simple silver ring, but as you advance you're going to want a jewelers saw*
Ring Mandrel & Ring Sizer Mandrel (plus mallet hammer)
$21.90 on Amazon - This set comes with everything you need to size your rings and shape them after you've soldered them.
$17.99 on Amazon - This one spins! This is a provides a safe surface for soldering - we're playing with fire, after all.
$12.98 on Amazon - Flux, in this spray form is quite handy! Flux helps your solder flow and helps to prevent fire scale (staining from fire).
$15.50 on PepeTools.com - This is used to pick up pieces of solder and move things around when you're using your flame
$44.99 on LittleHottieTools.com - FIRE! This torch is great for most projects. You might need something bigger if you're working on really large pieces or need to melt down a lot of metal.
$49.80 on Amazon - This kit comes with pickle, copper tongs, and a mini heating pot. Once you solder your jewelry you're going to end up with some discoloration/fire scale. Pickling your piece will remove the stain and provide a clean surface if you're going to be soldering additional pieces.
Metals
$29.45 on RioGrande.com for 5ft (as of July 18, 2024) - To make your basic stacker ring you're going to need Sterling Silver Wire, and 16 gauge is a good one to start with. This one is in dead soft which means the metal is relatively malleable without having to be annealed first.
$0.91 on RioGrande.com for 1ft - This is the "glue" to join your metals together. Once you bend the ends of your wire together to form the ring shape, you'll add a tiny bit of flux and solder. Once the solder flows you have a sturdy join!
*Like I said, not a cheap hobby!*