How to Rivet Jewellery

Summary

In this informative video, the host from 'Cro with Copper' demonstrates the art of riveting in jewelry making, highlighting its advantages over soldering. Viewers learn about different types of rivets, including ready-made and wire rivets, and the tools required, such as ball peen and cross peen hammers. The host provides a step-by-step guide on marking and drilling holes, threading wire, and using various hammering techniques to create both standard and flush rivets. With practical tips and clear visuals, the video inspires both novice and experienced jewelry makers to explore riveting as a decorative and functional technique.

Takeaways

• 🔗 Riveting is a cold connection technique used to join jewelry pieces without soldering.
• 🎨 It preserves finishes and patinas that may not withstand the heat of soldering.
• 💰 Ready-made rivets provide neat results but can be expensive; wire rivets are a budget-friendly alternative.
• 🔩 Wire rivets can be created by hammering short sections of wire to form the rivet heads.
• ⚒️ A ball peen hammer or a cross peen hammer can be used for riveting; the choice is a matter of personal preference.
• 🛠️ To begin riveting, mark the holes, center punch to prevent drill skidding, and drill with the appropriate size bit.
• ✂️ The wire should be cut to a length allowing about 1 mm to extend from each side of the metal.
• 🔄 Hammering techniques differ: with a ball peen hammer, hammer around the edge; with a cross peen hammer, hammer across the center.
• 🔧 For flush rivets, counter sink holes are necessary to ensure the rivet heads sit flush with the surface.
• ✨ Proper filing and polishing can make rivets nearly invisible, enhancing the aesthetic of the jewelry piece.

Q & A

What is the primary advantage of riveting over soldering in jewelry making?

Riveting creates a cold connection, which is beneficial for joining pieces with finishes that cannot withstand the heat of soldering.

What types of rivets are discussed in the tutorial?

The tutorial discusses ready-made rivets, wire rivets, and decorative rivets, each serving different purposes and requiring various techniques.

What tools are necessary for the riveting process?

Essential tools include a ball peen hammer or cross peen hammer, a center punch, a drill with appropriate bits, and a block to support the metal while working.

How do you prepare the metal discs for riveting?

You start by marking where to drill the holes on the metal discs, using a center punch to create a divot to prevent skidding, and then drill using the appropriate size bit.

What is the process for cutting the wire for the rivet?

Cut the wire so that there is approximately 1 mm of wire on each side of the metal, making it easier to judge and cut accordingly.

What technique is recommended for hammering the rivet with a ball peen hammer?

When using a ball peen hammer, hammer around the edge of the wire in a circular motion, applying gentle pressure to push the copper outward.

How is the cross peen hammer technique different from the ball peen hammer technique?

The cross peen hammer technique involves hammering across the center of the wire end at 45° angles rather than around the edge, which creates a slightly different effect.

What additional step is necessary for creating a flush rivet?

For a flush rivet, you must counter-sink the holes before inserting the wire to ensure the rivet sits flush with the surrounding metal.

How can one achieve an invisible rivet appearance?

An invisible rivet is achieved by carefully counter-sinking the holes, filling the area with the wire, and then filing off any excess to create a smooth surface.

What should viewers do if they want to learn more about jewelry making after watching the video?

Viewers are encouraged to like the video, subscribe to the channel, and visit the presenter's website for more hints, tips, and project ideas.