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A Digital Alchemist is someone who combines technology with tradition to create better design. We are at a juncture in history where technology has advanced so quickly that we barely understand how to use it properly. People are quick to abandon traditional techniques that were used to design and create mankind’s most beautiful jewelry. Tough economic times have forced business owners to redefine themselves and leaders in the industry are telling them that technology has the answers. These leaders would say there is a revolution in the industry going on; and if you’re not part of it; you will be left behind. A Digital Alchemist would say that it is an evolution going on, and that the future of the industry depends on not forgetting the past.

Thursday, March 22, 2012

Ikea Hack: Engraver's Ball

Homemade engraver's ball for around $50



The pictured engraver's ball was assembled out of easy to find items, in about an hour and for around $50.
I started engraving last year and took a class with Master Hand Engraver Jason Marchiafava.  I had everything I needed from the class except an engraver's ball.  During a trip to Ikea I noticed the bowls looked about the right size and the rest came together logically.  I ran into Master Hand Engraver Sam Alfano at the recent MJSA show in NYC and showed him a picture of the ball.  Upon his request here is the ball and how I made it.  I hope it inspires someone else and I would love to hear about other peoples attempts at homemade engraver's balls.




Tools, Parts and Instructions
  • drill, drill bits and driver bits
  • welder ( I have a PUK 2)
  • small funnel
  • (2) stainless steel bowls (Ikea) 
  • (1) bearing (American science and Surplus) weld onto bottom of 1st bowl
  • (3) steel rods (Rio Grande) drill holes through the bottom of bowl, push rods through and weld onto inside wall of bearing. This is for added support
  • (1) steel ring (Home Depot) weld on top of bearing
  • (1) large washer (Home Depot) weld inside of ring as base to mount universal holder
  • 2nd stainless bowl, weld to the other stainless bowl
  • (3) containers of stainless BBs 6000 each (used approximately 14,000 Walmart) drill hole and fill ball 
  • (1) 5/8" steel plug (Home Depot) plug fill hole
  • (1) universal work holder #113089 (Rio Grande) drill holes then screw holder onto washer
  • (1) rubber base (GRS) set finished ball onto rubber base and you are ready to go

Posted by at 9:50:00 PM

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