The basic of fusing is heating the metal until the surface melts, but not the entire piece of it. It creates a random texture, but more importantly you can melt two pieces together. There are many possibilities with fusing. You can use sheet, wire, filings, combined either way you want.
On this brooch fused silver filings were used.
No solder is necessary, but it takes several rounds to cover up each portion of the base. It is mandatory to clean the filings first. Use a magnet to remove any iron filings.
Brush the whole surface you want to cover up with flux. Heat it so it dries the first time and reapply it if necessary. The wet flux will help the filings stick to the surface, which is specially useful if you’re working on a repoussé (like this brooch).
Generously cover the area with your filings. And heat your piece until the filings fuse together with the surface. Some won’t adhere but it’s normal. That’s why you repeat this process quite a few times, until it is thoroughly covered.
Firstly, heat it from the reverse side so the fire doesn’t blow away the small particles. Also interrupt the heating process when the filings become shiny and cool it.
When it looks close to the desired effect make sure you brush fused areas, so all loose filings come off right away and you can see what is really done.
External Links:
[Ganoksin]: Fusing
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| [ tags ] art & artists • contemporary |
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