Bead cores

[Jemart]

I know that Cooksons stock silver core inserts for making pandora/troll beads but I'd like some in 9ct gold. Anyone know where to buy or how to go about making these?

[Jemart]

I'm wondering whether gold PMC might be the way to do it?

[ps_bond]

Bearing in mind I know next to nothing about beads, would a tube rivet approach work?

[Jemart]

tell me how tube rivets work please Peter.

[Jemart]

Like how do I make a tube rivet or better yet are they available to buy, are there any special tools I will need?

[mizgeorge]

The stick in cores are absolutely horrid. Nasty thin things that fall out or get covered in glue.

You just need to buy the right size of tube, then cut it to the length of the bead plus a couple of mm each end for the flare, and then either use a flaring tool (mine's adapted from a pipe flaring kit for car brake pipes) or a set of dapping punches in increasing sizes. You need the tube to be well annealed before you start, and take it very gently, flipping over regularly to make sure the two ends match. Make sure your tube's outer diameter matches the inner diameter of the bead you're coring. Thin walled tube is easier to use, but more vulnerable to splitting if you're not very careful.

[ps_bond]

Like that! I use the dapping punch method, usually starting the flare off with a point burnisher. I like the brake flaring idea though - I keep meaning to get a set for doing the Defender.

[Jemart]

Thankyou both, I will have a go at some tube rivets. Might post some pics if successful :)

[AlexandraBuckle]

and then either use a flaring tool (mine's adapted from a pipe flaring kit for car brake pipes)

how very cunning! I remember seeing my dad using one of those when i was little. Would never have thought to use one...

[PureGold]

This is worth reading. lampworketc . com / forums / showpost . php?p=1915842&postcount=1 (remove spaces and add www . for address.)

[ps_bond]

This is worth reading.

Lampwork Etc. - View Single Post - Rivet Tutorial (Da pretty silva bit) (http://www.lampworketc.com/forums/showpost.php?p=1915842&postcount=1)

Cheers for that - it's not allowing you to post links just yet due to the post limit set.

[mizgeorge]

This is my favourite silver core tute - very easy to follow and video too

You Are My Sunshine - by Dawn and Evan (http://www.dawnandevan.com/silver_core.htm)

[Jemart]

Excellent tutorial George, thanks!