Do Not Fear Your Torch
August 30, 2006 by Tammy Powley
Filed under Basics - Getting Started, Wire
One issue that most beginning metalsmiths or want-to-be metalsmiths struggle with is being too chicken to use a torch. You heard me. You’re chicken! Yellow! Whimpy!
Okay, I’m going to admit that I was totally freaked when I first handled a torch in my first official jewelry making class. It didn’t help either that we were using big butane tanks from the hardware store (required by the instructor since they were an inexpensive way to start).
But, honestly, once you get going you get past that. You will eventually lose the fear. Now, you may get some respect for the torch after your burn a little flesh off your fingers a few times, but respect is a good thing when it comes to working safely.
Whatever you do, do not, repeat, do not sucker in and buy one of the cold heat soldering torches. They are a rip off when it comes to soldering jewelry. Yes, even jump rings! For some reason many people think if you are just soldering jump rings then you can use some wacked out torch, but it doesn’t matter. If you are soldering real metal – silver, gold, copper – then you need a real torch. Period the end.
For a more detailed explanation of why you need a real torch and not some wacko torch you bought off a late night TV infomercial, read What Type of Soldering Torch?
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