Is Work-Hardened Half Hard Wire, Hard Enough
Question:
Hi Dale, I just made a wire bangle bracelet out of square half hard wire. How do I harden it to retain its shape? I'm new at this and don't have a clue! Thanks.
-Lisa in Beaverton, Oregon
Hi Dale, I just made a wire bangle bracelet out of square half hard wire. How do I harden it to retain its shape? I'm new at this and don't have a clue! Thanks.
-Lisa in Beaverton, Oregon
Instructions
Answer:
Congrats to Lisa indeed that's a fantastic milestone, making an heirloom-worthy piece!
You explained the hardening process really well. Wrapping the wires and shaping the bracelet naturally work-hardens the metal, especially with square half-hard wire. Plus, shaping it to the oval form of the arm is such a smart way to keep it comfortable and stable on the wrist.
And yes, the tumbler with burnishing compound or detergent is a nice finishing step if someone wants that extra shine and hardness definitely a personal choice depending on the desired look and durability.
Have you tried the tumbler method yourself? Or do you prefer to rely on work-hardening through shaping and wrapping?
Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
Congrats to Lisa indeed that's a fantastic milestone, making an heirloom-worthy piece!
You explained the hardening process really well. Wrapping the wires and shaping the bracelet naturally work-hardens the metal, especially with square half-hard wire. Plus, shaping it to the oval form of the arm is such a smart way to keep it comfortable and stable on the wrist.
And yes, the tumbler with burnishing compound or detergent is a nice finishing step if someone wants that extra shine and hardness definitely a personal choice depending on the desired look and durability.
Have you tried the tumbler method yourself? Or do you prefer to rely on work-hardening through shaping and wrapping?
Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong
Materials
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- Category: General Education
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Dale Armstrong
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