So Many Hammers… So Little time!

Hammers are an essential piece of my design experience.

Each year I purchase more and more hammers. To date I own 31 hammers.

Each hammer is designed for a specific task. Texturing hammers (and I have several) are used to create texture and design in the metal. I have ones that create patterns such as tiny squares or circles, a satin finish, vertical or horizontal lines, spirals and raindrops. Then I have hammers used strictly for flattening metal. The steel hammers are good for this use IF I am OK to alter the shape slightly . The steel hammers when pounded against another metal tend to distort the metal. So I use this option sparingly. However, these hammers come in handy for any riveting work. The leather or Delrin style hammers have a softer imprint. They are prefect for flattening metal without distorting the shape.

Design process using Hammers

When I am at the bench looking to create a new pendant or earrings, the first thing I do is decide upon the gem or gems. The next process involves creating a bezel for the gems. Once the bezel is soldered, Then the hammers become vital. I decide upon the shape and material for the pendant or earrings; I choose the metal and then choose the texture. If I want something more subtle, I will use the satin finish hammer. If I want something bolder, I will choose the squares, circles, raindrops or vertical lines. Sometimes the texture goes on the front around the gem. And often I texture the back if the front has little or no metal showing.

Get a closer look at the individual hammers here in my video

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