[Jewelry making - Article 00218] - Re: [Orchid] Searching for a tool

[Chris Ploof]

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Hi K.,

    That's got "make me" written on it in the biggest way - looks like a
    fairly simple, straightforward tool to make - a divider and scribe
    combination, with heat treated ends. I believe it was made out of
    flat stock, with the scribe end slightly tapered and then twisted
    clockwise on one half, and the other half counterclockwise. Then,
    stock was removed to help round and complete the taper. 

    The divider is a second piece simply riveted (looks like a washer
    may have been used as well) on to the first. Either cut out from
    plate in the curved shape, or perhaps forged hot to shape. Ends
    tapered to a point. 

    Not sure how big it is because the photo does not show anything else
    for scale, but if it is a hand tool, you should be able to
    accomplish this nicely with some oil hardening tool steel (I like
    O1) and a suitable quenching medium (olive oil works) and basic
    metalsmithing tools. It can pay to do a bit of research here - all
    steels have somewhat different heat treating schedules, and an
    improperly heat treated tool can be very dangerous - especially if
    it is one struck by a hammer. 

    Toolmaking can be incredibly free and liberating - give it a try!
    For reference, check out Weyger's blacksmithing books, and
    McCreight's knifemaking book - both have chapters that speak to heat
    treating. 

    Chris 

    the tool in question: 
    http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p253/loopy5610/5-57-1.jpg 

Chris Ploof Studio
www.chrisploof.com
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