Jewelry Studio: Silver Wire Fusing

My experience with metal jewelry-making stems primarily with sterling silver (SS), while the use of nearly 99% silver has been used with my glass and Precious Metal Clay (PMC - also approx. 99% silver) work. However, I have to admit that at times the steps taken when soldering SS and removing fire scale is time consuming. I decided to look into working with a purer form of silver and therefore purchased this book. Yes much is the same, but the ability to fuse silver without seeing the fire scale was pleasing (tested it yesterday - couldn't wait). Expense-wise it is often a set-back, but when you take into consideration time also equals money when in production of jewelry pieces, this may equal out. One of the most useful charts in the book was on page 67 where information of amount of wire needed to produce various sized rings. I also enjoyed playing with my little propane torch more than ever (have used it for other things).Yes this is a basic book, but one that is useful for those previously used to working with SS or those new to field of silver work. There are differences in methodology. I also feel that the safety issues brought up in this book should be required reading in every book that requires the use of machines, tools, or other items that can cause potential health hazards. I also appreciated the more detailed insights on various items (e.g. how the fire brick retains heat thus helping in providing heat to the metal from beneath) and how to set-up a studio focused on silver work. Some items required can be a bit pricey, but luckily for me, I already have them all.Reference guide, basics to follow, projects to get you started into the design of silver jewelry, and more make this a book to have in your metal design library. Giving it only four stars may seem a bit low after my positive review, but I really wish more examples of designs, especially outside the most common general circle designs, and applications for those wanting to advance in their skills would have been provided. Even if it were only two or three examples. Then again, since this is a beginner book on silver fusing, follow your own design path using the skills garnered from the guides in this book. You may be surprised!

Teaches you making your own ball-end head pins from wire, fusing rings closed, shaping them via hammer or pliers as you can see by the shapes on the cover, stamping "inspiration" links (my favorite find, I will upload a photo of that page in a moment), and it has some good info and tips along the way.I gave it 4/5 stars because her suggested resources for fine silver wire only offer it in thickness up to 18 gauge - yet for her projects you frequently need thicker stuff. Getting your metal will be pricier than the tools that's for sure!And it tells you it has to be a pure metal to fuse, FINE silver, not sterling. To me the obvious question is "Ok, so can I fuse and practice with copper first to save a few bucks?" If the book gives you the ok or tips to try copper (or pure gold if you're a lotto winner), I could not find that information in here.You'll need a kiln brick, torch, pliers, high-quality flush cutters, and fine silver wire to get started on basics. Steel bench block, hammer, metal stamps, and a tumbler if you want to get fancy and finish to perfection. I had everything but a tumbler, which I just picked up on ebay for less than $30. :)Where I'm coming from FYI: I'm a beadweaver, chainmailler (jump ring weaving really), lampworker, and I've dabbled in wireworking. Somehow I missed trying fusing along the way so this book filled that gap nicely for me. I plan to make frames for my lampwork beads, and some funky links to insert in my chainmaille pieces.

When people ask me for a cheap way to learn how to fuse Fine silver or Argentium Silver I still point them to this product. I was lucky enough to find a gently used copy for $3 here and find that the information contained within is invaluable. The only suggestions I would have would be for the author to update this text with working specifically with Argentium Silver and for the publisher to release this with a comb binding so you can refer to it as you're working at the bench.

I have been wanting to take a class on fine silver wire fusing, but haven't been able to. After recieving this book, I just may not have to! A wonderful beginner's book, the directions are clear, accompanied by lots of color step-by-step photos. The explanation of tools needed, and work area set up, is well done, and can perhaps alleviate some of the fear of using a torch. The designs are beautiful, some simple, some a bit more advanced. I can see anyone use this book not only to learn fusing, but to improve on your skills. As one of my favorites, I would recommed this book to anyone. Well worth the money!

Best for intermediate jewelers who have a good grasp of things like soldering. Book is only about silver smithing.

This is the first wire book I've bought since "All Wired Up" by Mark Lareau that is clear and consise enough to just jump right into. The pictures are great. I'm looking forward to finishing each and every project.

This book is well made with instructive pictures and nice samples. Love the easy projects and the way you are guided all the way through the process.

This is a good instruction manual on wire fusing. I am new to it and I found it informative and useful. Nice quality pictures and step by step instructions. Very pleased with my purchase. I've had difficulty finding books on this subject so was grateful to come across this one.

I bought this book as I am interested in moving to this technique having learned how to work with wire very well. Everything is well laid out, great pictures, and brilliantly explained. Also, very modern designs! I found it to be very practical and 'matter of fact'. User friendly. I still have to get the equipment but I will get all the recommended tools. I am looking forward to moving to the next level of jewellery making and thanks to this book not afraid to try this new technique. I recommend it highly as she is so clear in her approach and makes you want to try everything out without delay. Don't be afraid to buy this book, it really is a mine of information. It has a simple layout too, no extra unnecessary words, she gets to the point. She gives projects to try and lets you know at the start what knowledge you need to do it, and everything you need is explained in previous chapters. I hope this helps you make your decision. I love this book. Enjoy!

Excellent book showing all the basic techniques of silver wire fusing.

This book takes a beginner through simple steps with detailed instructions. The author then provides beautiful examples of jewelry that you can make with the acquired skills. This is a very thoughtfully put together book. Even a more advanced silversmith would enjoy adding this to their library.

Interesting read and great examples

Love this book!