DIY Network

Tips on Ergonomic Tools From "Jewelry Making" episode DJMK-509

Host Jackie Guerra talks about pliers and cutters, and shows several different types. She also talks about the muscles in the hand and how to pick the right kind of tool for the work to minimize problems and allow the jeweler to work without tiring.

advertisement

Host Jackie Guerra shares tips on purchasing and using tools.

Tools --

Wire cutters
Flat nose pliers
Round nose pliers
Chain nose pliers

Figure A

Tips on Ergonomic Tools

You need to consider the following when you are picking your jewelry tools:

• Warm Up. You need to always warm up your hands before you begin making jewelry. Just do some simple rolling hand movements -- opening and closing your fingers, etc.

• Size. Does the tool fit well in your hand? The handles need to be long enough so that you can squeeze them correctly (figure A). Use your wrist to make the motion -- never use your elbow or your shoulder.

• Grip. Where do your fingers grip? The squeeze should occur when your little finger and ring finger curl around the handles. Can you manipulate your wrist while squeezing?

• Hardness of cutters. Be sure your cutters will do what you need. For heavy wire, you need a heavy cutter -- like a cutter with a carbide insert in the jaw. Buy the best you can for most of your use. For some hard wire cutting, you can find adequate tools in the hardware store. Don't use soft metal cutters on hard wire.

• Machining. Check to see how finely machined the tool is; will it stand up to the use you plan for it?

RESOURCES :

Beads, crystals, pearls, jump rings, head pins & tools
Fire Mountain Gems and Beads
Website: www.firemountaingems.com

Charms (Fire Mountain Gems)
Fire Mountain Gems & Beads
Grants Pass, OR
Toll-free Phone: 800-423-2319 - Customer service
Toll-free Phone: 800-355-2137 - Order by phone
E-mail: Questions@firemtn.com
Website: www.firemountaingems.com

Euro Tool, Inc.
Website: www.eurotool.com