Pulling the Torch Trigger!

For many years I knew there would come a day when my micro torch (small handheld) would only get me so far. I’ve had to ditch a lot of ideas and pieces I got half-way through, only to find out my torch won’t get hot enough. I have been planning to bring back a much-loved design, in this Bloom Boom collection, and hit that barrier again this past Sunday. That was the nudge to pull the trigger on a big girl torch setup last night! Thanks to many hours of research and jewelry gal pals quenching my nerves, I literally said “f*ck it!” while pressing the button to submit my order LOL. Studio is getting another upgrade! I’m grateful to finally make larger investments like this, into my work! Now just have to get used to eating oatmeal for a few months…kidding….sorta.

[LEFT] Current (butane) Micro-torch [RIGHT] My new propane + oxygen setup w/ fine-tip torch arriving end of the week!

GAS 101

For those that don’t know, different gasses max out at different temperatures. The temperature of the flame from your torch (and accuracy of your torch tip), heavily impact what you can melt, solder, etc., and with which metals. So to give you an idea, Butane (fuel in my micro torch) Reaches max. Temp of 2100*F. Jewelers typically work with either propane, or acetylene, mixed with oxygen. These gasses max out at around 5000*F. Ultimately, the hotter and more direct flame is what avoids melting other small components (because you don’t have to hold torch on the piece for as long), cracking stones, and soldering larger areas of metal.

WHAT’S THIS DESIGN COMEBACK YOU SPEAK OF?

You may remember a “spinner” design I made years back? Pics below might jog your memory. It was really well liked, but I was even more limited then, with what I could fabricate myself.

But, with the new, hotter, and more precise torch setup, I should be able to bring ALL the NEW energy, fabrication, and elevated materials I want to make a robust spinner-comeback!

My torch setup arrives Friday-ish, hoping to re-attack them next week. I have some really pretty stones (inspired by the abandoned mines I recently visited) this design can so perfectly perfectly showcase. I can’t wait to share them with you all! Cross your fingers for me!

Here are a few WIP (work in progress) pics to hold ya over…