I have a Sherline lathe-milling machine in my studio for tool and
die making. Last year I had a commissioned buckle set to make for a
custom diplomat pouch (can be seen at www.sherersaddlesinc.com under
"Leather \Examples of client work). I originally planned to build
the buckle set with overlays separated by textured channels that
were “oxidized” black. Some of the overlays would be floral
engraved. While machining some metal, I realized it would be simpler
and more efficient (less hair pulling too) to solder two thickness
of sterling together and cut the channels with the milling machine.
This would be more precise than lining up and soldering overlays. It
worked.
Dick Sherer, Franktown, CO