Outfitting jewel/metalsmith studio

[burlymommy]

I was just asked to set up a jewel/metalsmith studio to accomodate beginner to intermediate classes in an old mill. I was wondering if anyone could give me any suggestions. While I have soldered and worked metals in the past, I am not sure which torch set-up will suit our needs. We are looking to get away with bare minimum until the program begins to grow. Can you solder all metals with the same set-up? Can you make the flameworked glass beads with a jewelry torch? Can we get away with using a dremel for grinding and polishing needs or do we need the big machine? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Metalman]

I would first recommend a book - 'The Complete Metalsmith' by Tim McCreight - [R&T cat #62-010].  This is a great basic reference as well as having a ton of information and explanations. There is a whole section on tools.
You will need to research torches abit - I use a 'Smith' brand, this is basically the same as a 'Prestolite' using an air feed with acetylene. Only one tank of gas, the acetylene.  While you can do a small amount of glass work with such a torch, I have heard that the acetylene is not a 'clean' gas for glass work.  Also, most glass torches have a broader flame.
As to the dremel. The important aspect to me is the usage of a flex shaft.  I had one of these attachments that fit on my dremel for a while but I have found discount tool companies that carry a flex shaft motor and tools for less then the cost of the dremel and the flex attachment.  The real issue is that you have better control with the flexshaft hand piece and foot pedal control than when you are trying to hold up that dremel along with your jewelry piece.
Check into used equipment as well.

[burlymommy]

Thanks! I have the book. Very helpful. I was given a used dremel. The flex shaft attachment is a great suggestion! I guess my biggest debate right now is what kind of torch. I'm leaning toward propane with oxygen.? (for convenience) I found a splitter that can accomodate two sets of hoses and torches. Would one consider one gas safer to work with than others. Our jewelry studio is part of a larger studio that hosts many childrens art classes. Can the broader flame that is needed for glass beads be achieved by changing the torch tip? Can you slump glass with a torch?

[Metalman]

Most of the torches I have used for silver soldering have used a fuel gas [propane, butane, natural gas, butane] under pressure with a passive air feed in the torch head. This means that the fuel gas flows through the torch head and draws in air from the atmosphere, mixes it and flows out to the flame part of the torch.  This also means only one tank of pressurized gas. Propane is fine, I don't think you will need the extra heat and push of the oxygen.  As to splitters, hoses and your particular set up - time to talk to your gas/torch and hose supplier. This is not one of the places in your set up to skimp on. SAFETY FIRST - meaning you want to have all your gear tested and if there are ?any leaks/problems/etc. - replace with proper or new equipment.
As I mentioned, you may be able to find full flex shaft equip. with handpiece and foot peddle for fewer $$ then you can get the flex shaft attachment for your dremel. I know it is tough when you are trying to set up on a budget but remember what your ideal is also.  In fact, it is worth writing up and pricing you 'perfect wish list' - "If you build it, they will come"
Somone can't gift it to you if they don't know you want it.
As to the glass torch flame question, you should talk to the instructor for those classes. Any proper instructor of glass bead work or for any activity involving torches, pressurized gases and the potential for large explosions should know their equipment, its set-up, hazrads and proper use - If you instructor can not answer these questions you need to get a different instructor, especially if you will have chidlren in the environment.
Glass slumping requires an kiln with reasonably good control of time and temperature.

[burlymommy]

Thanks again!