Using larger equipment for jewellery making can make a big difference for jewellery makers looking to elevate their skills or expand their capabilities. Hand tools are the foundation of jewellery making, offering the precision and control needed for intricate tasks like filing, shaping and stone setting. They are perfect for delicate adjustments, adding fine details, or creating unique designs by hand. However, as your projects grow more ambitious or complex, larger equipment like rolling mills, laser engravers and welders can take your work to the next level. These tools allow for greater precision, efficiency, and the ability to tackle designs that might be difficult or time-consuming with hand tools alone. Taking this step can feel daunting without the right knowledge and preparation. Here’s how to set yourself up for success with training and resources designed to make the transition seamless and rewarding.

Understand Your Equipment

Before going straight into training, take time to understand what the equipment does and how it fits into your jewellery making processes. Larger tools can help with tasks such as shaping metal, engraving intricate designs and creating detailed components. Research equipment types and specifications to ensure you’re investing in tools that align with your projects. Take a look at our range of demonstration videos on your selected too or ask a member of our team to provide you with all the information you need to make the right choice for you.

Key Tip: Start with a single piece of equipment rather than trying to master several tools at once. For example, a rolling mill is a versatile choice for working with sheet metal and wire.

Different Training Opportunities

Learning to operate larger equipment is a hands-on experience and there are several ways to gain the skills you need:

  • Workshops and Classes

Many jewellery making schools and community centres offer workshops tailored to using larger equipment. These are ideal for learning foundational techniques in a structured environment with expert guidance.

  • Customer Support

At Cooksongold, we provide in-person and online demonstrations, as well as our in depth demonstration videos to talk you through a step by step process of selected tools. We also provide technical support of a wide range of large tools, all of these resources are designed to get you started confidently and to answer any questions you might have.

Build Confidence with Practice

Practice is essential for becoming comfortable with larger equipment. Start with a simple project to familiarise yourself with how the tool works and behaves. For example:

  • Use a rolling mill to experiment with textures before tackling more complex shaping.
  • Try basic engraving patterns on scrap material using a laser cutter before attempting intricate designs.

Top Tip: Keep a notebook of settings, techniques, and results as you practice. This reference will help you track your progress and troubleshoot issues.

Stay Safe

Safety is a crucial consideration when working with larger equipment. Always wear appropriate protective gear, follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure your workspace is set up correctly.

Checklist for Safety:

  • Ensure proper ventilation for processes like soldering or casting.
  • Regularly inspect equipment for wear and tear.
  • Use clamps or holders to secure materials during operation.
  • Familiarise yourself with emergency shut-off features.
  • Never operate machinery without supervision if you’re new to it.

Investing time in understanding and learning to use larger equipment can significantly enhance your jewellery-making journey. While hand tools provide the precision needed for detailed work, larger tools open new possibilities, allowing you to tackle more ambitious designs with greater efficiency and accuracy. By researching your equipment, taking advantage of training opportunities and building confidence through practice, you can seamlessly incorporate these tools into your jewellery making.

To book a free product demonstration in store or online visit https://www.cooksongold.com/demo

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Author: Sian Brown
Written by

Sian Brown

Sian has been hand making her award winning jewellery in the West Midlands for over 12 years. Sian spent 10 years in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter before relocating to a quiet Worcestershire village.