If you’re anything like me, you find it it’s really fascinating that people can make artistic impressions in the surface of precious metals using something as thin and soft as paper.
I mean really…who’d have ever thought that’s possible?
The process is pretty neat, and since people ask me about it a lot, I thought I’d explain how I use a rolling mill and show you some of the different looks you can create. Here goes!
It looks like this. Kind of like an old-fashioned laundry mangle (or a pasta machine), really.
You lay the stuff you’re getting the pattern from against the sheet of metal, adjust the space between the two steel rollers and use the handle to start to feed the "sandwich" between the space. If it goes through too easily (and, therefore, won't make an impression), you adjust the space downward until it "feels right." Thats where the skill lies!
Wire that starts out on a plain spool can be laid across the metal in whatever pattern I feel like, then run through the hand mill so that the metal comes out looking like it does here. Isn’t that neat?
And lace? Yep, plain old lace like you would sew with or use in crafts. It sure seems like it wouldn’t be firm enough to leave its mark in metal, but it does.
Isn’t it gorgeous? I just love what I can create with my hand-mill.
Susan Berman
August 05, 2017
Fascinating and “charming” are the words I use to describe this mill process you’ve described in beautiful detail. I’m always learning from you. Your designs are unique and beautifully crafted. You’ve really made a name for yourself.
Thanks for sharing and I look forward to seeing more of you and your creative artistry. Love, Susan