Forming, riveting, raising, chasing, goldsmith’s, texturing—so many hammers for jewelers to use (the list goes on and on)! Here at Rio, we L-O-V-E hammers. We love them so much that we stock well over 100 hammers and hammer kits. With such a wide range of choices, how do you know which hammer or mallet to use? Today’s post on The Studio will take some of the mystery out of hammers and show you the exciting array of hammer resources available on Rio Grande’s website!
Master Your Stone-Setting Techniques with TrendSetter Wheels
Stone setting is hard work. To master the necessary skills you’ll need precision, patience, and plenty of practice. Blaine Lewis, widely recognized as the premier diamond-setting instructor in the U.S. today, understands this and invented TrendSetter Wheels which allow students to repeatedly set stones without setting up an individual mounting for each stone. Learn more about Blaine’s genius Trendsetter Wheels today on The Studio.
Video How-To with Ronda Coryell: Soldering and Working with Argentium Silver
Today, world-renowned jewelry designer and instructor Ronda Coryell demonstrates some great techniques, tips, and tricks for working with Argentium Silver. Don’t miss a chance to learn more about this remarkable metal from the best of the best!
Video How-To: Blaine Lewis on Precision Bur Control While Setting Gemstones
See one. Do one. There’s nothing like learning from a pro when it comes to setting gemstones. Through his videos and DVDs, Blaine Lewis teaches you one-on-one how to use your burs with precision while setting gemstones. Learn this and a whole lot more about how to set stones like a pro. Get started in today’s post at The Studio!
The Studio Team Gets Their Hands Dirty: Enter Rio’s Incredible WHITE COPPRclay Contest and Join Them!
It’s not too late to join our Incredible WHITE COPPRclay Pinterest Contest! Check out The Studio today to see the what happened when Rio’s blog team got the WHITE COPPRclay bug and had a workshop to create some treasures. Then you can join the Incredible WHITE COPPRclay Contest yourself for a chance to win a fabulous blog spotlight of your jewelry!
Video How-To with Ronda Coryell: Soldering and Working with Argentium Silver
Today, world-renowned jewelry designer and instructor Ronda Coryell demonstrates some great techniques, tips, and tricks for working with Argentium Silver. Don’t miss a chance to learn more about this remarkable metal from the best of the best!
Saw Frame Know-How with Yvonne M. Padilla
Saw frames. At first glance one looks very similar to the next. But, there are several features that you should consider before purchasing one. Whether you’re new to sawing or you’re a seasoned pro, Yvonne M. Padilla shares her knowledge about saw frames so that you can choose the right one for every jewelry making project.
Valentine’s Day Is Nearly Here (And We Have “A Lotta Heart”!)
Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Are you bursting with love and looking for creative ways to express yourself? Yvonne M. Padilla recently discovered her love of hearts and created a Valentine’s Day necklace to Inspire the rest of us!
Video Project with Tim Sheriff: Creating A Marble Pendant Using the Swanstrom Link-Forming Pliers
In this video, Tim Sheriff, shows you step-by-step how to create an eye-catching sterling silver bead cage custom-sized to your standard-size marble using the Swanstrom link-forming pliers. Enjoy!
Video Project with Bill Fretz: Making Cool Cuffs with his Sweet Stakes
Today, on The Studio, we’re sharing a video project which features the ever-brilliant Bill Fretz forming a concave cuff bracelet using his new Silversmith’s Forming Stakes and a brass blank. Enjoy!
Renaissance Wax is Here!
You asked for it…we’ve got it! Renaissance Wax is here and it’s flying off the shelf. Yvonne M. Padilla loves using Renaissance Wax on her finished BRONZclay™ pieces to seal in the rich color of the bronze. But it’s not limited to just bronze, the wax works on any metal, as well as other materials that need enhanced luster and protection. Check out The Studio today to learn more about this wonderful, versatile stuff!
Tech Tidbits: Pickle, Quick-Change Handpiece, and Customizing Your Bench Pin
It’s time for another compilation of Tech Tidbits! Every Tuesday, our Tech Team here at Rio posts juicy little tidbits on Facebook. It’s been way too long since we last shared their tips, tricks, and jewelry trivia on The Studio. Read on to discover some of their latest nuggets of tech gold!