Though less time consuming than channel setting stones in metal, the process of setting in wax is no less precise. The success of the cast piece is greatly dependent upon the careful preparation of the wax models for stone placement. For this process, Euro Tool Inc., a tool and equipment distributor has introduced a new kit of tools. The kit's named "Ready-Cast" and contains 5 precision quality hand-held tools that are designed to perform the basic functions for channel setting stones and general detail work on wax patterns prior to casting. Here's what it looks like:
This procedure works best for injected wax patterns that will be steam de-waxed. Carving wax is not used since it is not suitable for steam de-waxing. For the highest quality finished product, Ready-Cast's inventor prefers using a mixture of 50% Kerr Aqua and Blue Plastowax injection wax. He also reports using the kit to precut bearings into wax patterns prior to casting and setting the gemstones in the resulting cast products. I found the tools in the Ready-Cast kit to be invaluable in the precision carving and finishing of wax models in general. The versatile shapes allow for sharp detail and clean-up in tight areas, producing finer castings and saving countless hours in metal finishing while lowering metal waste
