[Jewelry making - Article 01306] - Re: [Orchid] Crochet Techniques

[michaelsturlinstudio]

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    A few people have written to ask about fusing the wires when adding
    a new section of wire to a crochet structure. There are some
    instances where it could present some potential problems to join the
    wire by fusing. Speaking, as an example, for the round crochet
    structure I utilize, I do think it this particular case it would be
    advisable. 

    Actually, the new sections in this structure are joined with a
    twisted splice (maybe 7mm in length) which remains concealed inside
    the chain. When properly executed these joints are very strong and
    reliable, and there should not be  any wire poking out or protruding
    from the crochet. 

    This type of crochet structure becomes work hardened as it is being
    constructed and this rigidity or hardening facilitates the self
    supporting nature of the structure as it is being developed.
    Personally, I find that this tension and stiffness are helpful in
    maintaining the conformity of both the size and shape of the loops,
    and the overall evenness of the crochet pattern. 

    If the crochet structure is heated before the total length of the
    crochet is accomplished there will be a difference in the temper,
    and the area adjacent to the fusing will be prone to annealing. If
    the chain becomes annealed in some sections more than others it
    could likely have a final result of a less uniform finished piece. 

    There is also a secondary problem; if some areas become annealed
    from fusing on the new wires, these portions will be more
    susceptible to becoming flattened, distorted, or damaged during the
    rest of the fabrication process as the length of the chain continues
    to be developed. 

    I find that one of the most critical issues with this style of a
    crochet chain is the step of annealing which takes place prior to
    the final procedures of straightening and drawing the chain. Any
    areas that aren't equally well annealed at this point will result in
    the chain having a segmented or kinked appearance, and once pulled
    through a draw plate it will be very difficult to correct any
    defects of this nature. 

    This type of work gets handled a lot during the making, and caution
    needs to be utilized to keep it from being damaged. 

Michael David Sturlin
http://www.geocities.com/~jdpn/gallery-sturlin.htm
http://ganoksin.com/orchid/sturlin.htm


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