Fascinated with Fusing Argentium: Explore the Possibilities, with April Bower

Level : Intermediate, must be comfortable with a torch and saw. 

Learn the basics of working with Argentium, the low tarnish, no fire stain, easily fusible silver. Learn about fusing, dusting, texturing, forming, soldering, finishing and tricks of adding high karat gold for interest & contrast. Learn about the dos and don’ts of this wonderful white silver.

ARTIST BIO

April Bower has always been fascinated by all the varied processes involved in metalworking. “Metal is an extremely versatile medium, that can be cast, stretched, compressed, pounded, welded, textured and colored or melted down to start all over again. From steel to copper to gold and silver, from ancient forging techniques to modern electroforming, the possibilities are endless.” After receiving a Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree, she spent 18+ years doing bench work in fine jewelry stores in Arizona. Over the years her focus has spanned from fine jewelry to copper fountain sculptures. Primarily a goldsmith, Bower teaches metalsmithing online and in live workshops at art retreats and studios throughout the US. She specializes in argentium silver, bimetals and reticulation. Texture and contrast are her driving elements.

TOOL LIST

• Basic Hand tools of Pliers, Saw frame & blades
• Files & sanding sticks 
• Rulers
• dividers
• sharpie marker 
• Makers stamp if you have one
• safety glasses 
• Flat charcoal block (best for fusing on) or a clean flat solderite board 
• Fav bench pin or texturing tools & planishing hammer are optional.

SUPPLY LIST: 

( ARSS= Argentium Sterling Silver)

ARSS Sheet

24g 1.5 x 6” minimum ( good base for earrings, stones, pendants)

20g or 22g 3” x 6” for cuffs... go heavier if larger than average wrist as

you can roll it longer

18g 1” x 6” for rings

ARSS Wire

10 g round 6” can be rolled, tapered or forged

12g round 1’ to 3’ use this to roll flat for frames

14g round 3’-5’ for wires and granules

16g round 2’-5’

18g round 2’ - more if you like to make and use jump rings

20g round 3’ more if you like to make and use jump rings

ARSS scraps for granules, dust or ingots for thicker stock

ARSS heavy walled tubing to fit favorite faceted round stones ( she usually uses

3 and 5 mm stones) also useful for bails and connectors

OR.... Bring what you have and make do.

Please note: you don’t have to buy all of this. It is a good starting point if you

want to create in Argentium. If you aren’t into cuffs, don’t buy the sheet to make

them, choose an earring project instead.

Want to add gold? Bring 18k or higher.....dust or granules or even small scraps

of sheet or wire. April uses 18 k gold from Rio ( 604521) .5” to 1”..... it is not

inexpensive