Fusing Sterling Silver and Copper is a process I began using the first few months of my metal work education.
Most metal is joined together using solder (with heat) or cold connection (with rivets). Of course I now use both of those methods in many designs
But fusing is still the most fun!
This process joins the metal by creating enough heat to melt parts of the metal.
The TRICK is to remove the heat just BEFORE the whole piece melts into a blob! Wonder how I know this? I have created a few ‘blobs’ during my learning process.
I mostly use scrap pieces that have been cut or filed from other designs. The idea of reusing this material instead of discarding it appeals to me. Silver scraps can be sent to a refinery for reimbursement, too, but reusing the metal myself makes more sense.
Here is what I love MOST about this process. The metals take on a mind of their own. As the components melt many of the pieces move or only partially melt. I have an idea of what I want the design to look like, but honestly until the heating process is completed, I dont have a clue how the design will look.
That’s what makes this process my favorite. I even named a collection after it. It is called the DARE to DREAM Series. It embodies our need to take a risk, step back and let things happen.
Many of my Copper and Silver Cuffs feature this process as well. Visit my web site to see the full collection.
Stefanie Peterson says
Create Your Reality
Heather says
That is such a talent and a rare skill — at least I think so. The only place I even remotely see work like this is at renaissance faires. All of those cuffs are just gorgeous! They could go with anything.
alenegeed says
Thanks so much Heather. I appreciate the Kudos! I am pretty obsessed overall with metals. This passion came to me later in life. but once it came to light I had no choice but to follow it.
Jennifer Quisenberry says
How incredibly gorgeous! And you make it sound a lot easier than it is no doubt.
alenegeed says
Thanks Jennifer. It certainly is a learned skill. My first attempts were atrocious.
Roslyn Tanner Evans says
I’m impressed. You do make it seem so easy & yet I know there is a lot of skill involved. I’m sure some trial and error too. Each design is spectacular.
alenegeed says
Thanks Roslyn. Appreciate your input. Creating your gorgeous work takes skill as well..and and eye for color and design
Sonya says
I love that, it means that each piece is completely unique too.
alenegeed says
Thanks Sonya. You are correct. No way I could duplicate if I tried with this process?
Robin says
Oh my gosh – that is gorgeous! I love the new boho look, and that would be so perfect! Kudos!!
alenegeed says
Thanks Robin. Yes these are perfect for Boho?
Kristen Wilson says
This is gorgeous and you really have taught me a few things over the time I’ve followed you about your metal works of art. No worries, no competition here.. I’ll admire your handiwork. 😉
alenegeed says
thanks so much Kristen. Appreciate your comments