Water Torch

Posted in Fire, Metal, Rowe’s Q and A on Jewelry, Tools

Q: I’ve got a second-hand type A+ “water” torch. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work—what am I doing wrong?

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The Water-Gilding FAQ—The Traditional Gold-leafing Process

Posted in Alt.Sculpture FAQ, Finish and Clean, Metal, Paint and Pigment
Wies Norberg provides information on this traditional method of achieving a brilliant gold finish on sculptural surfaces. This article covers the following topics: a general introduction, gesso, applying bole, handling leaf, applying leaf, burnishing.

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The Steel FAQ—Using Steel for Sculpture

Posted in Alt.Sculpture FAQ, Fabrication, Metal, Sculpture
Andrew Werby offers an overview of the techniques sculptors use for cutting, shaping, and joining steel, plus notes on surface treatments. This article covers the following topics: steel in sculpture, available types, cutting, bending, hardening and tempering, forming sheet, the forge, cold attachment, soldering, brazing, welding, oxyacetylene welding, arc welding, TIG welding, MIG welding, grinding, rust, paint, galvanization, vitreous enamelling, patinas, and safety considerations.

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