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Heat Rivet Repair

by Susan LeGuyader
In a recent bracelet that I made from some vintage silver plate seafood forks, I wanted to use a heat rivet (which is wire that is balled on both ends with a torch). I first thought would use a jump ring, but it was too big and clunky for the design.

I decided to use sterling silver wire because I wanted the rivet to be strong and hold up to wear and tear of wearing the bracelet.
Instructions
I lit the torch (I used my Smith Little Torch but just about any torch will work) and balled up one end of the wire and because it's sterling, it's all pitted and pretty gnarly.
So, what do you do to make your rivets have pretty ends that match the beauty of your jewelry?
Susan LeGuyader's Heat Rivet Repair - , Metalwork, sanding, filing, polishing, making a heat rivet
Susan LeGuyader's Heat Rivet Repair - , Metalwork, sanding, filing, polishing, heat rivet
I found that using a super large cup bur that fits the balled end of the wire will round out the rivet and make it pretty.
Next, I used a fine Cratex wheel, but you can use a fine silicone wheel for the same effect, and then my flex shaft to finish rounding out and tidying up the rivet.
Susan LeGuyader's Heat Rivet Repair - , Metalwork, sanding, filing, polishing, cup bur
Susan LeGuyader's Heat Rivet Repair - , Metalwork, sanding, filing, polishing, rounding a heat rivet
Susan LeGuyader's Heat Rivet Repair - , Metalwork, sanding, filing, polishing, rounding a heat rivet
Susan LeGuyader's Heat Rivet Repair - , Metalwork, sanding, filing, polishing, finishing a heat rivet
Susan LeGuyader's Heat Rivet Repair - , Metalwork, sanding, filing, polishing, finishing a heat rivet
Using these techniques to pretty up a sterling silver heat rivet and elevate your design, giving a polished result.
Susan LeGuyader's Heat Rivet Repair - , Metalwork, sanding, filing, polishing, heat rivets

Materials

Sheet Metal
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Wire
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Tools

Bur Set - 24 pc
BUR-400.00
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Portable Small Torch Oxy/Propane Kit
G32-3
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Single 3rd Hand with Tweezer and Base
HOL-165.00
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Solderite Soldering Board 6 Inch by 6 Inch Soft
SOL-421.10
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Charcoal Block, 5-1/2 Inches by 2-3/4 inches
SOL-480.00
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20 X 15 Inch Padded Work Mat
MAT-620.00
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Eurotool Flex Shaft System 1/6 Horsepower with Reversible Motor
HDP-180.00
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Quick Change Handpiece
HDP-153.00
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Unmounted Silicone Polisher, Square-Edge, Black, Medium Grit, 12 Pack
POL-300.20
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Miniature Screw Mandrel, Plain, 3/32 Inch, Pack of 12
BRS-274.00
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  • Category: Metalwork
  • Technique(s): Finishing

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