What would be a good choice for a rolling mill for a a fairly new
metalsmith? I mostly work with silver and like to use texture in my
work. I noticed that there are some inexpensive mills from India
and I was wondering if they are worth buying. I don’t do heavy
production yet and I don’t have a big budget but I really want to
get a rolling mill. I also don’t want to waste my money either. I
was told by another jeweler that I should not bother with a mini
mill either. What would be a good size mill to get and what
capabilites are most important? Should I get one with multiple
rollers or is a combination mill the way to go? Any informed input
will be greatly appreciated. The Orchid community contains such an
incredible group of people with so much knowledge and experience
that I just couldn’t lurk any longer without asking for help. I’ve
learned alot through this forum and I hope one day to be able to
share my experience when I feel I have enough of it to share.
Thanks in advance for anyone’s advice.
Hello Jackie, You asked about the rolling mills made in India. I’ve
been pleased with my mini mill (3 inch wide roller) from Kenneth
Singh http://www.ringtools.com It’s more than adequate for my modest
needs and doesn’t take up a lot of space.
If you need a wider roller, than it would be worth investing the
bigger bucks for a Durston.
Judy in Kansas
Judy M. Willingham, R.S.
B.A.E. 237 Seaton Hall
Kansas State University
Manhatttan KS 66506
(785) 532-2936 FAX (785) 532-6944
The Karat rolling Mill has been tested and comes with a warranty. It
is an excellent machine for a studio. Because of the additional
rollers it is actually 2 machines in one. You have a capability to
use it for Flat, Wire and Half Round material.
The Big Reduction Gear makes it easy to roll with very little
effort. At present there is a special sale on the mill. You may
contact us for the details.
I found the combination mills for wire and sheet and even half round
handy but sheet and square wire the most important. This will allow
lots of versatility and limits the stock one needs to carry or allow
one to make most of the metal needed. Saving on the manufacturing
fees and enable one to use up clean scrap is a great plus and in
itself will pay for the rolling mill. Anther thing one should
consider is the maximum opening say at least 5mm to accommodate the
various common ingot moulds. Also a 4:1 gear ratio helps in achieving
a consistent product. The rolling mill I am using is the 110mm PEPE
made in Europe available though Stuller. Very happy with it and price
is reasonable.