Solder Smarter: Strategies for Better Results
Joanna Gollberg
Class Preview
1:42
- In-depth Instruction; over 164 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Introduction
1:53
Meet metalsmith Joanna Gollberg and get an overview of the techniques she'll cover. You'll be able to use the class as a reference, learning or reviewing key soldering techniques whenever you need!
Torch Use
6:51
Your torch is the most important and powerful piece of equipment in your soldering toolkit. Joanna introduces a popular gas-oxygen model, the Smith Little Torch, discusses gas options and shares safety tips.
Soldering Setup
22:08
Set yourself up for success! Learn about the functionality of different soldering surfaces and types of solder. Joanna shows how to set up your gas tanks and check for leaks. Then, light your torch and adjust the flame size for a variety of tasks. Joanna also discusses safety and good joins.
Flux & Firescale
14:27
Joanna compares different types of flux for keeping your metal clean and aiding solder flow. She also addresses firescale, and shows how to use depletion gilding to remove unsightly discoloration.
Appliqué
22:29
Also known as "sweat soldering," appliqué refers to the soldering of one piece of metal on top of another. Practice more challenging tasks by soldering a ball onto a ring using two methods, soldering curved pieces together, and soldering an earring post. Joanna also shares tips for keeping your hands stable.
Pre-Melting Solder
14:34
Get better joints with less cleanup by pre-melting solder onto the pieces to be joined. Joanna shows how to securely solder a textured ring and place end caps on a snake chain. You'll love the precision and efficiency of this technique!
Props
13:49
You have a multitude of choices for props to hold your pieces as you solder. Joanna shows you a few of her favorites -- cross-locking tweezers, silicon carbide powder and a third hand -- as she solders tiny and hard-to-hold pieces.
Stick Soldering
15:01
Tackle the efficient method of stick soldering using wire solder. You'll see how to draw down your wire to a finer gauge using a draw plate. Joanna shares an easy tip for marking your wire, then shows how to stick solder. Learn to troubleshoot mistakes along the way!
Penetrable Soldering Block
14:21
Meet the soldering block that changed Joanna's career. Joanna explains the benefits of this block and how to set it up, then shows how to solder multiple joints at once, such as the prongs for a stone setting or two-band rings.
Troubleshooting
10:58
Everyone makes mistakes! Joanna encourages you to learn from them -- and learn how to fix them. See how to fill in holes, replace melted wire and move a solder joint without adding more solder.
Finishing
27:04
Let the beauty of your design shine with a professional finish. Joanna shows you how to remove extra solder using a flex shaft or a hand file. Sand off scratches or firescale with sandpaper, and add a final polish with a variety of handheld materials or flex shaft bits.
Master your torch and conquer challenging jewelry fabrication with ease! Metalsmith Joanna Gollberg guides you step by step through common soldering challenges and beyond, starting with the most important tool: your torch. Learn proper heat control for a variety of tasks and conquer firestain with tips on fluxes and fixes. Find out how to properly stage complicated projects, from curved and round pieces to intricate wire joints, and practice two sweat-soldering methods that offer greater precision. Then, successfully solder intricate designs with Joanna’s foolproof tips for stick soldering with wire solder, and learn to solder multiple joints at once to quickly make prong settings. Finally, learn troubleshooting tips every metalsmith needs to know and discover how to refine your pieces with texture or polish for a flawless, professional finish.
Joanna Gollberg
Joanna Gollberg received her jewelry design degree from the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. Upon graduating, she founded Joanna Gollberg Jewelry and she has been making and selling her original designs ever since. Joanna has authored four books, including The Art & Craft of Making Jewelry and The Ultimate Jeweler's Guide, and her designs have been featured in numerous publications such as Art Jewelry magazine, 1000 Rings and 21st Century Jewelry. Joanna teaches jewelry making at the Penland School of Crafts, the Denver School of Metal Arts, the Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts and here on Craftsy!
Bonus materials available after purchase