Intro to Jewelry: Filing

Summary

This video tutorial demonstrates step 5 of a basic metalworking process, focusing on the technique of filing. The instructor explains the different types of needle files, their uses, and how to handle them safely. Key points include using the correct file for various shapes, such as flat files for straight and convex edges and round files for concave surfaces. The video also covers filing techniques to smooth out imperfections and saw marks, emphasizing patience and precision to achieve clean, polished edges before moving on to sanding.

Takeaways

• 👩‍🏭 Needle files are named based on their cross-section shape, such as flat, round, square, and triangular files.
• 🔧 Flat files are used for straight edges or convex shapes, while round or oval files are better for concave edges.
• 🦺 Safety first: always wear goggles to prevent metal filings from getting into your eyes while filing.
• 🗡️ Knife edge files help get into narrow spaces, and square or triangular files are used for filing corners or angles.
• ⚙️ Use the appropriate file based on the shape you're filing—flat for straight edges, round for concave edges, and square for angles.
• 💪 Filing requires applying pressure on the push stroke while maintaining the correct angle to get smooth and even edges.
• 🔍 The purpose of filing is to correct any errors from sawing and remove saw marks for a clean, smooth finish.
• 🔄 Move the file along the curve when filing rounded shapes to ensure consistent results without uneven edges.
• 🪚 Sometimes, the saw blade itself can be used for fine filing in narrow spaces, but be careful not to apply too much pressure to avoid damage.
• ✅ After filing, the goal is to have smooth, even edges with no saw marks, and both the front and back of the metal should look well-finished.

Q & A

What is the purpose of filing in the metalworking process?

Filing serves two main purposes: correcting errors from sawing by straightening edges and removing saw marks to create smooth, even surfaces before sanding and buffing.

Why is it important to wear goggles while filing?

Wearing goggles is important to prevent small metal filings from getting into your eyes, even though filing is generally a safe process.

What are needle files, and how are they named?

Needle files are small files used for precision filing in metalworking. They are named based on the cross-section of the file, which refers to the shape of the file when viewed from its end.

What are the different types of needle files mentioned in the video?

The types of needle files discussed include flat files (tapered and plain), knife-edge files, square files, round files, oval files, half-round files, and triangular files.

When should you use a flat file versus a half-round file?

A flat file is used for straight or convex edges (curved outward), while a half-round file is used for concave shapes (curved inward) and convex edges.

What is the purpose of using a knife-edge file?

A knife-edge file is used for getting into narrow spaces and filing narrow angles where other files might not fit.

How can you tell when you are finished filing a piece of metal?

You are finished filing when the edges are smooth, there are no visible saw marks, and the edges have a consistent, even shape without high points or irregularities.

What filing technique should be used for convex and concave edges?

For convex edges, use a flat file with a forward swooping motion. For concave edges, use a half-round file, moving it along the curve to ensure smoothness and consistency.

What mistakes do beginners often make when filing metal?

Common mistakes include using the wrong file for the shape, hacking at the metal by filing straight up and down without flowing with the edge, or applying too much pressure and creating uneven edges.

Why is it important to file both the front and back of a piece of jewelry evenly?

In jewelry-making, both the front and back of the piece need to look equally polished and clean, as the back of jewelry is also visible and reflects the craftsmanship.