Berta's Metal Art Blog

Texture Plate Storage and Care Instructions In order to ensure your tools remain in good working condition, it is recommended that you keep them stored in a cool, dry place. We realize that many of our clients live in warmer and more humid climates, however, so here are some suggestions to help you extend the longevity of your tools: * Do NOT leave your plates stored inside the cellophane bags or shipping packaging. It is possible for moisture to accumulate inside and prolonged storage in this packaging can create the perfect environment for rust and discoloration to form. The plastic packaging...

Every now and then I will get a message from someone saying that there is something wrong with a texture plate they received, and that they believe that it's not holding up to par because they feel like it is the steel or my particular process for making them when in fact it's actually that they're using too much pressure on the tool itself. This can actually cause damage to not only the texture plate, but also your mill. So let's go ahead and see if the issue you are having is in fact the tool itself or perhaps just...

Show season is about to open up here in Oregon and it has me thinking about my time vending in local shows.  Now, I get a THRILL making big, gawdy, in-depth pieces of jewelry using expensive materials and showing off what I can do. I take pride in completing a challenge every time I make something I didn't expect to be able to do, and I know that a vast majority of you all feel the same way. But let's not forget... we have a bottom line, and we won't be able to meet our minimum income to obtain even...

Many of us began our journey into metal art just enjoying the jewelry we already have, never really putting any thought into how it's all made or who made it. Others in our craft were raised by a household that supported itself off of the industry and it's always been a part of their lives. Whatever set off that spark that brought you here - encouraging you to make your own jewelry whether for sale or self fulfillment - you're going to need a good starting point.  While those who later become professional jewelers attend accredited schools and apprentice to...

Having a hard time soldering gallery wire? Here’s how I use it without melting tines! First of all, I always use paste solder. It’s just easier: the flux is mixed right in with the solder so you just place it where you want it to go. No fiddling with chips and flux... The syringe makes it easy. Also, it has a wider spread than traditional solder so it will go where you need it (and then some, sometimes, especially with a pattern under it.. but that’s okay with the pattern you won’t even notice.) Second, I NEVER place the flame...