Some pics of a kilt Buckle I am making, first one of this type I have made I learnt a lot, I would never use this method in the future too many unpredictable problems
Pic 1 frame Parts, Pic 2 frame parts test fit, pic 3 frame soldered, pic 4 Silver face soldered to frame, pic 5 off to the engraving god
I like that - looking forwards to seeing it once it's been cut.
Other than the minor difference that I'd have tacked the tongue & loop in place prior to soldering (rather than through holes), I'd have approached it pretty much the same - what problems did you hit?
This largest t issue I encountered is that the brass upon heating to attach the Silver moved around all over the place, I did cramp it down however clearly not enough, my intension was to just solder the silver around the edge it was having none
of that just flowed underneath. The result is a horribly distorted face too much to file down, hook and the belt loop gave no problems, it will suffice as no one will know except me, I will remake it although the next version I will just construct the entire piece
from Silver (Argentium). I will post a pic when it comes back
The loop and hook, I used hard solder, to attach the face I used easy, after thinking about I do think I should have just used Silver ( Argentium) and not Brass, the two in this situation/design are in my opinion not compatible the expansion difference between
the two is too great it was near impossible to keep the heat localised but not to worry as they say you learn from your mistakes, it will be reborn, I can't complain it has been a very long time since I made such a horrible mess ( this one will just have to do for now not enough hours in the day to make a new one for this event)
Quick pic of the buckle after engraving, finish is a brush finish, the camera shows every little defect, in real life it looks good, why a brush finish because it is belt buckle and I a am of the opinion that a hi polish
would show up every finger print etc., It would would be a different scenario if it was fully covered with scroll work, let me know your thoughts.
( for those who are interested the Tartan is "Jardine Modern Dress")
Pretty good piece of engraving. You're well on the way to being an expert Bob.
Satin finish is the way to go, because buckles became customised with use.
If you care, the finish can still be evened out, using a medium grit decorators abrasive sponge block (dry), with light pressure.
It needs to be applied horizontally in one direction only to get an even effect. Dennis.
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