Ceilidh ... Re^2: Softening the Edges of Micro-folds

Hydraulic Die Forming Discussion Group

Re^2: Softening the Edges of Micro-folds

My pieces thus far have been in 34 guage copper, which I use to work out the bugs before using gold and silver. Thanks for the thoughts I will try them out. My problem really arises in earrings, where I am reluctant to ad a bezel and back and add to the weight. The great thing about microfolds is the lightness.

Bill

4On Thu Aug 29, Jack Berry wrote
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>A Copy/Paste Reply:MICROFOLD EDGE DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

>Bill: What metal and gauge are you using? Are you using die forming? If you are making micropleats and cutting them on the diagonal I assume you are using thin (30-34 ga) metal. In my opinion these must be covered or effectively removed for jewelry to be worn. See the section “Edge Design Considerations” in my book (I recognize your name as a book owner). The collapsed edge technique (pp. 29-34), some call a “ruffled edge”, where an expanded shape collapses into the desired final shape does not require any cutting and the “sharp points” are not produced. A little “rounding” of the collapsed edge with fine sand paper gives a suitable finish. If you must cut the edge use a “framing plate” which covers the edge as discussed in the book. Another possibility, if you are die forming the piece, is to die form a framing wire into place simultaneously with the die forming of the piece. In the image below, I made a framing wire (soldered into a solid ring) which was slightly larger in diameter than the circle in the matrix die, placed it on the die (sitting concentric and just next to the cut edge of the die). This was held stationary with rubber cement. Then the microfold sheet was placed on top of the framing ring so the ring was sandwiched between the die and the microfold. When die formed, the framing ring simultaneously formed into the microfold, creating a “nest” which makes it very easy to solder the frame into place. The “blue tape” is used to maintain the correct “mating position” so there is good contact all along the frame for soldering. After soldering, the edge can be cut away and finished right up to the frame leaving no sharp edges. I hope this is helpful!! …..Jack
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>On Wed Aug 28, Bill Hornaday wrote
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>>I am a little worried about sharp edges on my micro-fold jewelry pieces, especially pieces cut on the diagonal. Do you guys ignore the sharpness or do you soften it, and if so, how?

>>Your thoughts and/or advice? Thanks in advance.

>>Bill Hornaday
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Thu Aug 29