My wife and I really enjoy your videos. We are just beginning jewelry making and find your instructions precise, accurate and easy to follow. Many people post jewelry videos but most leave out some of the steps, assuming that the viewer already knows how to do them. Your instructions however are much more complete and detailed. You have a natural ability to teach and we will continue to anxiously await each of your videos. Thanks for doing such a good job.
+Gary Crow Im happy to hear, when filming and editing I never know if it makes any sense lol! I appreciate your encouraging words and look forward to uploading another video shortly! xo
I personally think you're a better teacher than you give yourself credit for. I like your candor and your love for what you do certainly shines through. I'm branching out from primarily bead work to metal work so I've been searching RUclips for tutorials that would give me a good foundation to begin with, by far, I enjoy yours the most. Thank you for taking time to teach and share your knowledge of metalsmithing. This video was awesome!! I hope you keep them coming...
+Shannon Ferguson Hi Shannon thank you I really am just going with it so I tend to babble and say so um a lot. Im happy so many of my viewers are finding my tutorials helpful. It is encouraging and makes me want to film more :)
Hi Michelle, I have watched all of your videos over and over again. I enjoy your "babbling" as much as your tutorials. I was hoping for a start to finish ring tutorial. I know a lot of work goes into making these tutorials and really appreciate you taking your time to make these videos. Your jewelry is so beautiful and you are an real inspiration to so many. Thanks again Michelle!
+Rachel Hans OH Rachel!!! I love that you love my babbling lol! I will have a very nice babble filled vlog coming shortly :) Thanks for all your appreciation, I hope to do more tutorials soon! You as well inspire me with your lovely comments! xo
This was so freakin awesome! Thank you so much for taking the time. I can't even list all the things I learned. I'm so ADD I rarely watch an entire video in one sitting, but you had me for the entire hour! Your skills, perfectionism, humor and willingness to say "this isn't the only way, it's just how I like to do it" really makes you the best maker of tutorials I've seen. Thanks again.
Michelle, you are a FIRST CLASS INSTRUCTOR! This is the first full tutorial I've seen of yours and it is excellent. Your pace, method, and communication are really very good, and so easy to understand. Bravo! I love making bezels (not sick of it yet- hopefully never!), and I learned HEAPS from this wonderful tutorial. Thank you, thank you, thank you for taking the time for your fans, followers, and lucky subscribers! Well done!
I stumbled upon this video thinking it was about watch bezels (Lol - not jewelry savvy) and ended up watching a real artisan at work. I was hooked until the end. You do great work. :)
reading other responses, it looks like many want these peeks into your jewelry/educational backround- you are a great story teller- teacher, that's RARE!
I just found your channel about a week ago and have now watched all of your vlogs. I just love them, mostly for your no bullshit approach, your very clear information and your obvious joy in what you do. I also enjoy seeing the day to day working life of a bench jeweler. I viewed these in reverse order and this was the final one I viewed. It was just what was needed to pull together what you had been showing in your other vlogs. I'm just starting out and I'm so grateful to you for sharing your hard-won experience and techniques. Thanks so much! I'll stay tuned. I'm also following you on Instagram (recent flash sale purchaser) as guiltyhedonist :) Thanks, again!
+Martha Miles Hi Martha! Welcome to my channel thanks so much for watching! I am happy to hear you are starting out on your metalsmithing journey. Best of luck to you :) xo Thank you again for the purchase I appreciate it xoxo
Thank you and thank you again. I have been trying to learn how to make rings by watching various videos and this is the only one that has all the steps. I had it pretty much all figured out, but your little tips just filled in the blanks and I know it will make all the difference. Your attention to details is remarkable. I love watching how you work. Great job!!!!! Thank you again for sharing.
+Judith Grenier Thats great to hear, I am so happy my video can be of help. I really enjoyed making this video for my viewers. Tweet me a photo of when you complete a project! Thanks again for all your kind words and best of luck! xo
Love this video! I spent the entire day yesterday making my own bezels for 4,5,and 6mm stones . They all turned out great and I felt so good! Today I am starting on the ring shanks. Thank you so much for your guidance. You explain the steps so well!!!
Thanks so much for the great how to video, I have been having problems with the soldering but after watching this video "I'm Back". Made three shanks two bezels and bottoms and attached, sawed and polished, now I am back for the last to see just how you attach the bezels to the shank. Thanks much
+teresabruce Hey Teresa so happy you are liking the videos! I'm over the moon to hear you completed your first bezel ring :) Congrats and thanks for watching :) xo
Love your real no nonsense approach! I found your video a great refresher for me. I took a few classes last year and now, setting up a small bench at home....I will definitely be following you!
You must please please please continue with tutorials. This was awesome. I already know how to do bezels but I love to see how other people do it. So thorough and rare that way. Please keep up the fabulous work. (Maybe get a camera person? :) )
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I have been having some troubles setting the stones so I will try again following your steps :) I love all your videos and these are very helpful for beginners like me!! Regards from Spain! Lucia
Thank you for taking the time to make this GREAT video! I love your enthusiasm and your great tips. I am so hooked on your videos, I look forward to more. You are a great artisan your work is beautiful!
Another great video. I have loved watching all of them and they just keep getting better and better! Thank you for taking the time and inspiring me to get more into making jewelry. Please keep up the good work and I look forward to following you're journey. Cheers, Paul
+Paul Marrano Hi Paul! Thanks for watching :) Im happy everyone is enjoying these videos. I hope to make more in the near future. Thanks for all your encouragement, it makes doing this worth it when I know its helping other smiths! Have a great day! xo
Hey :-) My first time commenting on someones video and also my first time subscribing to a channel on youtube, but I just wanted to let you know that I love this tutorial. Your videos are so educational and I am hereby one of your fans!! Currently waiting for a big load of supplies to start soldering, and I am sooo excited... so - thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge..you make me even more eager to start!
+Desirée Støen Hi Desiree thanks for watching!! Glad to have you subscribed to my channel! So happy that you found my tutorial helpful. I love getting new supplies always the best when they get delivered. Shear joy :) xo
Thank you so much for sharing all your expertise, really enjoy watching you and learning so much from you.You are amazing!!! You are doing a great job!!
Thank you. great video, that is such a nice gesture from you to show others your talents. I am taking metal working and this is the type of project I am really wanting to learn. hoping to make a stacking family ring for my daughter.
New video yaaaaaaay! I love your vlogs! I check everyday for a new one and just watch old ones until you upload! I know you are busy being amazing and I really appreciate you sharing your journey and tips! Secretly you are my mentor ;) Any chance you will do a video on how you do the stone on stone designs? Keep up the great work!
+Aesha Egbuna Thank you! So humbled to be your secret mentor lol :) I dont think I will be doing a stone on stone video just yet, If I do I will be sure to mention it in the video for upcoming tutorials :) Thanks for watching xo
ur amazing! thank u so much for this very well explained tutorial!!! i love jewelry making and this has been so helpful for me and cant wait to try this myself!
Hi, I love your instructional videos. Please tell me what is, and where to buy, the flex shaft wheel that you used to polish inside the ring. I note that you didn't use a split mandrel with sandpaper.
I used this tutorial as my first attempt at bezel setting. It is awesome! My question is what are the minimum supplies I need to purchase to start making silver rings? This is what I know so far from watching the video: Use "fine silver" (not sterling) use 20 gauge for backplate (hardness?); use ? gauge for ring ? hardness? use 26 or 28 gauge for bezel wire 3/16" (hardness?); Sheet solder Medium. I'm hoping you can help me fill out the ??? because I'm on a very limited budget and I can't afford to purchase something that won't work. Thank you so much for making me believe I can do this! Donna Robertson
I finished 2 rings today and I love them!! When you polish, do you only use the gray and red rouge? Always? I have all these radials etc., but your way seems so much simpler--- just 2 steps instead of 5 or 6! Thanks so much. Oh, by the way, I ordered my Smith acetylene set -up today!!! I can't wait to get it. I have been using a butane. You are the best teacher!!!
+Jean Watkins Hey Jean! I usually only use grey and red rouge, you can use other polishing compounds it really depends on your preference. I have the radial disks but it's a lot of steps in my opinion and has its purpose for certain polishing projects. So happy you got a torch :) Thanks for watching! xo
Hi Michelle, Love this tutorial and I know I will be coming back to it when I attempt my first bezel setting. Would you mind sharing what kind of torch you use? I know you said acetyene but would you mind telling me which one you have? I began teaching myself metal smithing about 9 months ago and have been using a creme brule torch but I have surpassed its abilities. Please let me know if you feel that you can. Thanks, Lizzie (p.s. I get TONS of compliments on both my man in the moonstone and man in the moon garnet rings I purchased from you a few months back. LOVE THEM!)
+Lizzie Bowersox Hi Lizzie so happy you are on your way to soldering like a pro! I use the smiths silver smiths acetylene and air torch set up! Im so happy you are enjoying your rings :) xo
Wonderful tutorial ! Do you oxidize with stone in setting? Does this depend on size or type of stone? If tumbling do you tumble first then oxidize and set , or set then oxidize? Most of my stones are larger freeform cabs. I have been watching you on you tube for some time. You are a beautiful woman with a beautiful mind and beautiful jewelry. Thank you for sharing.
+Jeffrey Becker Hi Jeffrey! Most of the time I do oxidize with the stones in, not all, some can get ruined. I stay away from the really soft stones and LOS. Such as turquoise, pearl etc. I usually tumble before I set just to get everything pre shined and work hardened even though some say tumbling does not do that. So happy you are enjoying the videos, thank you for the kind words as well. :)
You do very intricate and detailed work. I'm not a jeweler or anything like that. I was just browsing for a DIY tutorial on bezels for my polymer clay. (LOL) I have never, ever watched a tutorial longer than 15 min and not get bored. This tutorial, however, is very educational, interesting and engaging that I didn't want to blink! :D Thank you. You are one very talented girl. In my next lifetime, I would like to have at least, half of your skills. By the way, I'm just curious. How long did it take you to learn this and what kind of training/schooling did you have to take?
+Angela Perkins Hey Angela Its a green lion saw they are actually releasing a second version that is almost the same but a few new improvements I would recommend waiting if you haven't already purchased one. But here is the link for the original Otto Frei will carry the second saw as well in the next few weeks xoxo! www.ottofrei.com/Store/Saw-Blades-and-Saw-Frames/GreenLion-Studios-Jewelers-Saw-Frame.html
Hi, I was wondering if the sanding of the bezel work hardens the metal, making it harder to push? I'm new to it all, and one of my bezel was virtually impossible to push!!! It was normal fine silver bezel, and small, but I sanded a lot, and maybe I'm thinking it was too much solder???
+huskyfluffy Hello Husky, no I don't belive it does. Maybe too much solder if you get it all over the wall the solder tends to stiffen it quite a bit. I would give it another go! Good luck xo :)
What large files are you using & what grit sand paper? This is great! I've been teaching myself silversmithing for the past year or so & there are so many little tips that I learn from watching videos like this. Thank you! Do you have any suggestions for a good hand dremel to use for silver work & the best hand torch in your opinion? I have a very limited budget and very remedial home set up but I'd like to know what is best for my budget and upgrade as I am able! Thanks so much for your time. Beautiful work
Hi, awesome tutorial. I'm from Italy and I didn't really get the thickness of the bezel wire, you said 3-16-7... But I don't know how to use these numbers to get a measure in millimeters... can you tell me the thickness in mm? Thanks! Great work by the way, keep going!
+Valentinolandia Hello thanks for watching :) The bezels go by gauges which is the thickness 26 (.46mm),28 (.376mm) ,30(.315mm) the lower the number the thicker the gauge. The height is in inches 1/8" or 3/16". Hope that helps :) xo
Hi. Love you videos. New to stone setting. Do you use .999 for your base plate also. I was told if using .925 with transparent stones the base can oxidise over time (which you'll see though stone after a while) and If using .925 to place a piece of .999 foil at bottom. Have you found this? Is the foil needed? Sorry for long winded question. Also not sure if would work for bezels also, but when measuring for ring shank I use this formula. Radius + metal thickness X 3.14 = length of shank. No guess work.
+dawn butcher Hi Dawn thanks for watching! I use sterling for my base plate. You can use foil I have in some cases, you need to make sure no moisture will get in the bottom, it could end up moving around and causing the silver to peak through the foil. You can also seal the silver underneath to prevent tarnishing. I tend to find the 3.14 formula works but there are variables always especially if when you need to file the ends down to make them perfectly flush for a solder joint. Then you lose a few mm there. But overall that works!
I enjoy watching your videos and learning so much! Thanks for sharing your knowledge. A few years ago I start making jewelry, from beading with elastic, growing up to beading with Flex Wire, designing my own beaded necklaces, and now, settling on making Beaded Kumihimo necklaces. My biggest desire has been to work with wire and metal and I have taken some wonderful classes on wire wrapping, recently playing with metal working. My husband makes Poly Clay Cabs and beads, which I love using on my Kumihimo ropes, so I would love to start making my own metal designs and bezels, and so my question....can Aluminum be soldered? We found copper solder and that is great, but aluminum is easy to find and eventually I will graduate to Sterling Silver but not until I know what I am doing. If Aluminum can be soldered, what type of Solder can I use? You are much appreciated. Thanks. GloriaB
+Gloria Borrero Yes you can solder Aluminum I think the melting points are much lower than copper, brass, silver or gold. I would recommend starting with copper its inexpensive and can be more fickle than silver. If you do well with copper you can then graduate to sterling. Depends on your preference and budget do what your comfortable with. I would say a low temp solder but I don't know much on aluminum sorry I couldn't be of more help there! Im sure there are many articles on google I would try doing a search I can imagine you will find a suitable answer. Thanks so much for watching and best of luck xo!
Hey Lauren thanks for watching! No need for a big polishing machine if you don't do tons of polishing just yet. a dremel or a flex shaft will be perfect to start with! best of luck xo
Oh, one more thought; would you do a bit of expounding on "hybrid"/marriage of metals soldering, specifically with 14k (or whatever k) gold bezel wire and sterling back plate? It has been a real challenge for me, I don't know the tips and tricks (solder? Temperature? Etc.) to avoid the total meltdown. There is next to ZERO info out there, none in fact on RUclips even. You would be the first! Thanking you in advance :))
+Gabby Flying Chef I just apply more heat to the backplate than the actual bezel wire and flicker the flame on the gold this way it still heats but not overheats. Gold does have different flowing temps then silver and depending on the KT you use it varies with flow. I will see if I can make a video for that specific topic in the near future :)
+meshedesigns what kind of solder would you use/ Gold easy? Or maybe silver(H,M,E?), but then I would worry about it running up the outside of the bezel with yucky silver stripes or blobs over the gold. Ack! I tried it and the gold totally melted into the back plate....sigh. I think gold needs more heat initially, but then melts suddenly when it does reach temp. And, I think the temp for gold solder flow (I tried 10k gold solder)is higher than silver (H or M) but at the same time close to the melt temp of the bezel itself- ARGH! It (the 26g gold bezel wire) literally melted INTO the backplate- I saw it through the other side....then next try, it melted into a blob. Expensive blob!!! DANG!!! I think a reallly clear and detailed video on this would be a FIRST in the industry; a bit of gold in a piece really takes it to the next [beautiful] level- and a good challenge for students (ME)!! Thanks again (and again). When I figure it out, I'll have to get a vid camera make a video Hahahaha! YOU FIRST (Please!)! XOXOXO
+Lauren Baca Hi Lauren, in this particular video I used fine silver for the bezel! Sometimes I use sterling depending on the application :) Thanks for watching! xoxo
Sorry, one more question- I am slurping up as much of your brain that I can get (lol)!; Is the grey compound the same as tripoli? And are they interchangeable? One better than the other? Thank you M.
+Gabby Flying Chef Hey Gabby! The grey compound and tripoli are different but serve similar purpose. The tripoli I believe is a bit more aggressive than the grey. Both are pre polishing compounds. My teacher used tripoli, I used it a few times he gave me chunk but I love grey.
You're a natural teacher. Great video, basic and concise for beginners and even seasoned intermediates like me. Thanks.
+Mj Drean Thanks MJ glad you enjoyed it xoxo
My wife and I really enjoy your videos. We are just beginning jewelry making and find your instructions precise, accurate and easy to follow. Many people post jewelry videos but most leave out some of the steps, assuming that the viewer already knows how to do them. Your instructions however are much more complete and detailed. You have a natural ability to teach and we will continue to anxiously await each of your videos. Thanks for doing such a good job.
+Gary Crow Im happy to hear, when filming and editing I never know if it makes any sense lol! I appreciate your encouraging words and look forward to uploading another video shortly! xo
Best video tutorial out there!
I personally think you're a better teacher than you give yourself credit for. I like your candor and your love for what you do certainly shines through. I'm branching out from primarily bead work to metal work so I've been searching RUclips for tutorials that would give me a good foundation to begin with, by far, I enjoy yours the most. Thank you for taking time to teach and share your knowledge of metalsmithing. This video was awesome!! I hope you keep them coming...
+Shannon Ferguson Hi Shannon thank you I really am just going with it so I tend to babble and say so um a lot. Im happy so many of my viewers are finding my tutorials helpful. It is encouraging and makes me want to film more :)
Hi Michelle, I have watched all of your videos over and over again. I enjoy your "babbling" as much as your tutorials. I was hoping for a start to finish ring tutorial. I know a lot of work goes into making these tutorials and really appreciate you taking your time to make these videos. Your jewelry is so beautiful and you are an real inspiration to so many. Thanks again Michelle!
+Rachel Hans OH Rachel!!! I love that you love my babbling lol! I will have a very nice babble filled vlog coming shortly :) Thanks for all your appreciation, I hope to do more tutorials soon! You as well inspire me with your lovely comments! xo
This was so freakin awesome! Thank you so much for taking the time. I can't even list all the things I learned. I'm so ADD I rarely watch an entire video in one sitting, but you had me for the entire hour! Your skills, perfectionism, humor and willingness to say "this isn't the only way, it's just how I like to do it" really makes you the best maker of tutorials I've seen. Thanks again.
Thanks so much for your wonderful video. By the way, this was one of the few times I listened to the entire advertisement. Love it!
Michelle, you are a FIRST CLASS INSTRUCTOR! This is the first full tutorial I've seen of yours and it is excellent. Your pace, method, and communication are really very good, and so easy to understand. Bravo! I love making bezels (not sick of it yet- hopefully never!), and I learned HEAPS from this wonderful tutorial. Thank you, thank you, thank you for taking the time for your fans, followers, and lucky subscribers! Well done!
+Gabby Flying Chef Thank you for all your sweet words! I love bezels I never get sick of looking at them! Much love xo!
I stumbled upon this video thinking it was about watch bezels (Lol - not jewelry savvy) and ended up watching a real artisan at work. I was hooked until the end. You do great work. :)
+Tsampiko F. Thank you so much that means a lot. Glad you enjoyed it :) xo
Please make more. This is one or maybe the best tutorial I have watched. I have made many rings but learned from you at every step.
Love your vlogs as always! You should have a tv show truly. So relatable and generous with your craft!!
reading other responses, it looks like many want these peeks into your jewelry/educational backround- you are a great story teller- teacher, that's RARE!
I just found your channel about a week ago and have now watched all of your vlogs. I just love them, mostly for your no bullshit approach, your very clear information and your obvious joy in what you do. I also enjoy seeing the day to day working life of a bench jeweler. I viewed these in reverse order and this was the final one I viewed. It was just what was needed to pull together what you had been showing in your other vlogs. I'm just starting out and I'm so grateful to you for sharing your hard-won experience and techniques. Thanks so much! I'll stay tuned. I'm also following you on Instagram (recent flash sale purchaser) as guiltyhedonist :) Thanks, again!
+Martha Miles Hi Martha! Welcome to my channel thanks so much for watching! I am happy to hear you are starting out on your metalsmithing journey. Best of luck to you :) xo Thank you again for the purchase I appreciate it xoxo
Thank you and thank you again. I have been trying to learn how to make rings by watching various videos and this is the only one that has all the steps. I had it pretty much all figured out, but your little tips just filled in the blanks and I know it will make all the difference. Your attention to details is remarkable. I love watching how you work. Great job!!!!! Thank you again for sharing.
+Judith Grenier Thats great to hear, I am so happy my video can be of help. I really enjoyed making this video for my viewers. Tweet me a photo of when you complete a project! Thanks again for all your kind words and best of luck! xo
Love this video! I spent the entire day yesterday making my own bezels for 4,5,and 6mm stones . They all turned out great and I felt so good! Today I am starting on the ring shanks. Thank you so much for your guidance. You explain the steps so well!!!
+Jean Watkins Love to hear that Jean, I am happy that this video has helped you complete your rings :) xo
Thanks so much for the great how to video, I have been having problems with the soldering but after watching this video "I'm Back". Made three shanks two bezels and bottoms and attached, sawed and polished, now I am back for the last to see just how you attach the bezels to the shank. Thanks much
+Marilyn Holland Hey Marilyn so happy to hear you are back at it!! Best of luck to you and bravo on your success! xo
I love your videos! I just made my first bezel ring while watching this. You made it so clear and easy to understand. You rock!
+teresabruce Hey Teresa so happy you are liking the videos! I'm over the moon to hear you completed your first bezel ring :) Congrats and thanks for watching :) xo
This was such a good video. I have watched it over and over! You explain it so good. I am learning so much from you.
This tutorial was the best of its kind I have ever seen. Thank you very much. More of the same please. Frank
Wonderful video! Everything flowed from point to point and the information was concise and clear. I will be following too!
+Mardi Renn Thanks for watching Mardi! Glad you enjoyed the tutorial :) xo
Thanks for the great tut. Nice to see the process from the beginning through the final polish.
+Janet Steigerwald Thanks for watching Janet! xo
Love your real no nonsense approach! I found your video a great refresher for me. I took a few classes last year and now, setting up a small bench at home....I will definitely be following you!
I think you did an amazing job on this video! Very straight forward and detailed steps. Thanks so much! I look forward to watching all your videos.
Such an informative vlog! Answered all of my questions! Adding to my tool bench once again! GREAT job Mich! Always love your tutorials!!!
+Emily Grivois Thanks Emily!!! Much love xo
You must please please please continue with tutorials. This was awesome. I already know how to do bezels but I love to see how other people do it. So thorough and rare that way. Please keep up the fabulous work. (Maybe get a camera person? :) )
Thank you so much for this tutorial! I have been having some troubles setting the stones so I will try again following your steps :) I love all your videos and these are very helpful for beginners like me!! Regards from Spain! Lucia
+lucia cadi Thanks for watching Lucia! xo
Thank you for taking the time to make this GREAT video! I love your enthusiasm and your great tips. I am so hooked on your videos, I look forward to more. You are a great artisan your work is beautiful!
+Best Cut Gems, LLC Thanks for watching, and thanks for your kind words! Glad you enjoyed :) xoxo
Another great video. I have loved watching all of them and they just keep getting better and better! Thank you for taking the time and inspiring me to get more into making jewelry. Please keep up the good work and I look forward to following you're journey.
Cheers, Paul
+Paul Marrano Hi Paul! Thanks for watching :) Im happy everyone is enjoying these videos. I hope to make more in the near future. Thanks for all your encouragement, it makes doing this worth it when I know its helping other smiths! Have a great day! xo
Hey :-) My first time commenting on someones video and also my first time subscribing to a channel on youtube, but I just wanted to let you know that I love this tutorial. Your videos are so educational and I am hereby one of your fans!! Currently waiting for a big load of supplies to start soldering, and I am sooo excited... so - thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge..you make me even more eager to start!
+Desirée Støen Hi Desiree thanks for watching!! Glad to have you subscribed to my channel! So happy that you found my tutorial helpful. I love getting new supplies always the best when they get delivered. Shear joy :) xo
You are amazing!!! This video was exactly what I needed. I just love to listen to you. I have watched each one at least twice LOL
Wow. Thank you for such a thorough lesson. I really appreciated all the tips and tricks!
So glad I watched this. You did such a beautiful job! Thank you for making such a great tutorial.
+jasminmalia Thank you so much for watching, glad you found it helpful! xo
Awesome tutorial! I love the way you explain things clearly and in detail. Thank you so much for posting..im learning so much from you. :)
+Bring Me Wine Thanks! So happy it helped, I tend to babble a bit lol! Happy to hear you are learning! Keep it going and best of luck xo!
Thank you so much for sharing all your expertise, really enjoy watching you and learning so much from you.You are amazing!!! You are doing a great job!!
+Ingrid Taddigs Hi Ingrid thanks for watching! So happy you like the videos. Thanks for all your warm wishes, have a great day! xo
You did a fantastic job Michelle!! Loved watching this and hearing your little tips here and there!! TY!
+Lori Jarrett Thanks Lori glad it helps :) xo
Excellent presentation and very detailed.
+Charles Tramontana Thanks for watching Charles glad you liked it! xo
Thank you. great video, that is such a nice gesture from you to show others your talents. I am taking metal working and this is the type of project I am really wanting to learn. hoping to make a stacking family ring for my daughter.
+Anita Dee Thanks for watching Anita, stacking ring is a great place to start. I'm sure it will come out beautiful. :) xo
New video yaaaaaaay! I love your vlogs! I check everyday for a new one and just watch old ones until you upload! I know you are busy being amazing and I really appreciate you sharing your journey and tips! Secretly you are my mentor ;) Any chance you will do a video on how you do the stone on stone designs? Keep up the great work!
+Aesha Egbuna Thank you! So humbled to be your secret mentor lol :) I dont think I will be doing a stone on stone video just yet, If I do I will be sure to mention it in the video for upcoming tutorials :) Thanks for watching xo
Thank you so much! This was an amazing video! xx
+thelipstickdiaries So happy you enjoyed it :) Hope all is well xo
I'm just getting into jewellery and you do a great tutorial thank you :)
So THATS how you make those tiny bezels without flipping the stone across the room. Thanks!
Thank you, you are a very good teacher. Nice style.
I SO enjoy your video's. Thank yo so much for sharing. you are thorough, very professional and pleasant!
Thanks, great video with a lot of super tips!! Make more - please!!
+Frank LaBrake Thanks Frank!!! I am filming another vlog, I will try and do another tutorial soon! xo
ur amazing! thank u so much for this very well explained tutorial!!! i love jewelry making and this has been so helpful for me and cant wait to try this myself!
+amymckinney2011 Thanks for watching Amy! So happy you enjoyed the video, glad it could be of help! xo
Hi,
I love your instructional videos.
Please tell me what is, and where to buy, the flex shaft wheel that you used to polish inside the ring.
I note that you didn't use a split mandrel with sandpaper.
This is really great and very helpful!
+Katy Boyd Thanks for watching Katy glad you enjoyed xo
I used this tutorial as my first attempt at bezel setting. It is awesome! My question is what are the minimum supplies I need to purchase to start making silver rings? This is what I know so far from watching the video: Use "fine silver" (not sterling) use 20 gauge for backplate (hardness?); use ? gauge for ring ? hardness? use 26 or 28 gauge for bezel wire 3/16" (hardness?); Sheet solder Medium. I'm hoping you can help me fill out the ??? because I'm on a very limited budget and I can't afford to purchase something that won't work. Thank you so much for making me believe I can do this! Donna Robertson
I really liked your tutorial. Great job!
I finished 2 rings today and I love them!! When you polish, do you only use the gray and red rouge? Always? I have all these radials etc., but your way seems so much simpler--- just 2 steps instead of 5 or 6! Thanks so much. Oh, by the way, I ordered my Smith acetylene set -up today!!! I can't wait to get it. I have been using a butane. You are the best teacher!!!
+Jean Watkins Hey Jean! I usually only use grey and red rouge, you can use other polishing compounds it really depends on your preference. I have the radial disks but it's a lot of steps in my opinion and has its purpose for certain polishing projects. So happy you got a torch :) Thanks for watching! xo
Easy to follow ando detailed tutorial 💯💖💖💖
Great video, so kind of you to share. Thanks😊
This is really good and I loved this tutorial! Could you tell me what digital caliper you use? Thank you so much!
+Janice Williams Hi Janice I actually bought mine from Michaels and love it its from Bead Landing! Thanks for watching xo!
Hi Michelle,
Love this tutorial and I know I will be coming back to it when I attempt my first bezel setting. Would you mind sharing what kind of torch you use? I know you said acetyene but would you mind telling me which one you have? I began teaching myself metal smithing about 9 months ago and have been using a creme brule torch but I have surpassed its abilities. Please let me know if you feel that you can.
Thanks,
Lizzie
(p.s. I get TONS of compliments on both my man in the moonstone and man in the moon garnet rings I purchased from you a few months back. LOVE THEM!)
+Lizzie Bowersox Hi Lizzie so happy you are on your way to soldering like a pro! I use the smiths silver smiths acetylene and air torch set up! Im so happy you are enjoying your rings :) xo
Wonderful tutorial ! Do you oxidize with stone in setting? Does this depend on size or type of stone? If tumbling do you tumble first then oxidize and set , or set then oxidize? Most of my stones are larger freeform cabs. I have been watching you on you tube for some time. You are a beautiful woman with a beautiful mind and beautiful jewelry. Thank you for sharing.
+Jeffrey Becker Hi Jeffrey! Most of the time I do oxidize with the stones in, not all, some can get ruined. I stay away from the really soft stones and LOS. Such as turquoise, pearl etc. I usually tumble before I set just to get everything pre shined and work hardened even though some say tumbling does not do that. So happy you are enjoying the videos, thank you for the kind words as well. :)
You do very intricate and detailed work. I'm not a jeweler or anything like that. I was just browsing for a DIY tutorial on bezels for my polymer clay. (LOL)
I have never, ever watched a tutorial longer than 15 min and not get bored. This tutorial, however, is very educational, interesting and engaging that I didn't want to blink! :D
Thank you. You are one very talented girl. In my next lifetime, I would like to have at least, half of your skills.
By the way, I'm just curious. How long did it take you to learn this and what kind of training/schooling did you have to take?
excellent Tutorial . Thank you.
+patricia flores Thanks for watching Patricia!
Amazing video! Any tips on where to purchase some of the supplies needed, i.e. metal for the bezel, soldering, etc.?
+Megan Duncan Hi Megan, Rio Grande, Hoover and Strong, Otto Frei are all great suppliers. Thanks for watching xo!
+meshedesigns Thank you! Is there a soldering kit you would recommend for beginners?
Nice professionally presented video thank you from Southampton , England.
What a great video.... I have just one question. Where did you get that amazing jeweler's saw? I am in love with it!!!
+Angela Perkins Hey Angela Its a green lion saw they are actually releasing a second version that is almost the same but a few new improvements I would recommend waiting if you haven't already purchased one. But here is the link for the original Otto Frei will carry the second saw as well in the next few weeks xoxo! www.ottofrei.com/Store/Saw-Blades-and-Saw-Frames/GreenLion-Studios-Jewelers-Saw-Frame.html
Hi, I was wondering if the sanding of the bezel work hardens the metal, making it harder to push? I'm new to it all, and one of my bezel was virtually impossible to push!!! It was normal fine silver bezel, and small, but I sanded a lot, and maybe I'm thinking it was too much solder???
+huskyfluffy Hello Husky, no I don't belive it does. Maybe too much solder if you get it all over the wall the solder tends to stiffen it quite a bit. I would give it another go! Good luck xo :)
What large files are you using & what grit sand paper? This is great! I've been teaching myself silversmithing for the past year or so & there are so many little tips that I learn from watching videos like this. Thank you! Do you have any suggestions for a good hand dremel to use for silver work & the best hand torch in your opinion? I have a very limited budget and very remedial home set up but I'd like to know what is best for my budget and upgrade as I am able! Thanks so much for your time. Beautiful work
Hi, awesome tutorial. I'm from Italy and I didn't really get the thickness of the bezel wire, you said 3-16-7... But I don't know how to use these numbers to get a measure in millimeters... can you tell me the thickness in mm? Thanks! Great work by the way, keep going!
+Valentinolandia Hello thanks for watching :) The bezels go by gauges which is the thickness 26 (.46mm),28 (.376mm) ,30(.315mm) the lower the number the thicker the gauge. The height is in inches 1/8" or 3/16". Hope that helps :) xo
Hi. Love you videos. New to stone setting.
Do you use .999 for your base plate also. I was told if using .925 with transparent stones the base can oxidise over time (which you'll see though stone after a while) and If using .925 to place a piece of .999 foil at bottom. Have you found this? Is the foil needed?
Sorry for long winded question.
Also not sure if would work for bezels also, but when measuring for ring shank I use this formula.
Radius + metal thickness X 3.14 = length of shank. No guess work.
+dawn butcher Hi Dawn thanks for watching! I use sterling for my base plate. You can use foil I have in some cases, you need to make sure no moisture will get in the bottom, it could end up moving around and causing the silver to peak through the foil. You can also seal the silver underneath to prevent tarnishing. I tend to find the 3.14 formula works but there are variables always especially if when you need to file the ends down to make them perfectly flush for a solder joint. Then you lose a few mm there. But overall that works!
I enjoy watching your videos and learning so much! Thanks for sharing your knowledge. A few years ago I start making jewelry, from beading with elastic, growing up to beading with Flex Wire, designing my own beaded necklaces, and now, settling on making Beaded Kumihimo necklaces. My biggest desire has been to work with wire and metal and I have taken some wonderful classes on wire wrapping, recently playing with metal working. My husband makes Poly Clay Cabs and beads, which I love using on my Kumihimo ropes, so I would love to start making my own metal designs and bezels, and so my question....can Aluminum be soldered? We found copper solder and that is great, but aluminum is easy to find and eventually I will graduate to Sterling Silver but not until I know what I am doing. If Aluminum can be soldered, what type of Solder can I use? You are much appreciated. Thanks. GloriaB
+Gloria Borrero Yes you can solder Aluminum I think the melting points are much lower than copper, brass, silver or gold. I would recommend starting with copper its inexpensive and can be more fickle than silver. If you do well with copper you can then graduate to sterling. Depends on your preference and budget do what your comfortable with. I would say a low temp solder but I don't know much on aluminum sorry I couldn't be of more help there! Im sure there are many articles on google I would try doing a search I can imagine you will find a suitable answer. Thanks so much for watching and best of luck xo!
Soldering scares me . I'd love to learn but it just makes me leary. But your videos are going to help me become more familiar with the process.
This is awesome!! Thank you so much!!
+Kristina Pittman Thanks Kristina! So happy you liked the video. xo
Thank you for an excellent video!
thank you.....you are a good teacher.....:):)
+Kremena Venkova Thank you for watching I appreciate it :) xo
I am a jeweler, I really like your work
love it, really usefull! you're awesome! thanks for the video
Thumbs up... you are Fantastic. Great Video
+Valerie “Osunwele” Tate Thank you Valerie glad you enjoyed :)
+meshedesigns Wow this was an amazing tutorial! I learned so much! Thank you for posting this.
+Lisa Rollny (start-a-kit) Thanks for watching Lisa, glad you found it helpful! xo
Hi can you make this bezel ring using copper....I am a beginner?
Can you show us what you do with your scrap metal? TIA
thank you my teacher
+Hamza Aberkane Thanks for watching Hamza!
Is the bezel wire sterling silver or fine silver?
What if you don't have a big polishing wheel? Can you use a dremmel and some sort of a attachment?
Hey Lauren thanks for watching! No need for a big polishing machine if you don't do tons of polishing just yet. a dremel or a flex shaft will be perfect to start with! best of luck xo
you are the best ..ty dear..
+Eliz Richardson Thanks for watching Eliz xo
Oh, one more thought; would you do a bit of expounding on "hybrid"/marriage of metals soldering, specifically with 14k (or whatever k) gold bezel wire and sterling back plate? It has been a real challenge for me, I don't know the tips and tricks (solder? Temperature? Etc.) to avoid the total meltdown. There is next to ZERO info out there, none in fact on RUclips even. You would be the first! Thanking you in advance :))
+Gabby Flying Chef I just apply more heat to the backplate than the actual bezel wire and flicker the flame on the gold this way it still heats but not overheats. Gold does have different flowing temps then silver and depending on the KT you use it varies with flow. I will see if I can make a video for that specific topic in the near future :)
+meshedesigns what kind of solder would you use/ Gold easy? Or maybe silver(H,M,E?), but then I would worry about it running up the outside of the bezel with yucky silver stripes or blobs over the gold. Ack! I tried it and the gold totally melted into the back plate....sigh. I think gold needs more heat initially, but then melts suddenly when it does reach temp. And, I think the temp for gold solder flow (I tried 10k gold solder)is higher than silver (H or M) but at the same time close to the melt temp of the bezel itself- ARGH! It (the 26g gold bezel wire) literally melted INTO the backplate- I saw it through the other side....then next try, it melted into a blob. Expensive blob!!! DANG!!! I think a reallly clear and detailed video on this would be a FIRST in the industry; a bit of gold in a piece really takes it to the next [beautiful] level- and a good challenge for students (ME)!! Thanks again (and again). When I figure it out, I'll have to get a vid camera make a video Hahahaha! YOU FIRST (Please!)! XOXOXO
+Gabby Flying Chef: Even "The Orchid" Ganoksin has ZERO info on hybrid work. It is a surprisingly vacant subject of study and information.
Awesome!! Thanks so much
+Dianna Cooper Your welcome :) xo
what size saw blades do you use?
+therealunclebilly Mainly 3/0 seems to be a good size for most of my projects! Thanks for watching xo!
Lovely. Thank you
+Gert Thesquirt Thanks for watching Gert xoxo!
what is pickel ??
You makefine and beautifull things
Fine silver or sterling bezel wire?
+Lauren Baca Hi Lauren, in this particular video I used fine silver for the bezel! Sometimes I use sterling depending on the application :) Thanks for watching! xoxo
Sorry, one more question- I am slurping up as much of your brain that I can get (lol)!; Is the grey compound the same as tripoli? And are they interchangeable? One better than the other? Thank you M.
+Gabby Flying Chef Hey Gabby! The grey compound and tripoli are different but serve similar purpose. The tripoli I believe is a bit more aggressive than the grey. Both are pre polishing compounds. My teacher used tripoli, I used it a few times he gave me chunk but I love grey.
Thanks so much, that makes sense.
love the video
nice video;)
you are the best ..ty dear..