[Ganoksin] Jewelry Making - Curve Ahead - Using Coils To Bend Tubing

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Curve Ahead - Using Coils To Bend Tubing
By Jurgen J. Maerz, August 2006

Many tools sold in model/hobby stores can be used for jewelry making. During a recent visit to a hobby shop, I found these tube bending coils, which model makers use to build models that require bent tubing. Jewelry makers will find these coils handy when bending tubing for projects.

	Bending coils are available in different sizes, making it possible to bend tubing without any major distortions.
	When selecting a coil, pick one that fits the tube snugly.
	Insert the tube into the coil and leave a small amount of the tube sticking out. This will allow you to grab the tube to remove it from the coil after bending.
	Gently bend the coil to the desired curve. As the coil is bent, the tube inside will bend as well. If the tube fits snugly inside the coil, it will not deform during bending.
	Use a pair of pliers to remove the tube from the coil. It may be necessary to lightly sand the surface of the tube to remove any marks left behind from the bending process.
	Tubes can be bent in different directions using these coils.

Jurgen J. Maerz is director of technical education for Platinum Guild International in South Coast Metro, California.

Originaly published at MJSA's award-winning flagship publication, MJSA Journal.

MJSA Journal, The Authority on Jewelry Manufacturing is devoted solely to the manufacture and sale of fine and fashion jewelry. No other publication devotes as many pages per month to new manufacturing techniques, bench tips, business and marketing strategies, and time-saving technologies. That's why our readers, from volume manufacturers to manufacturing retailers, custom designers to bench technicians, rely on MJSA Journal to Make It.

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