Okay all you lapidarys, got a question for you. I’m wondering if there
are any kits out there (or plans) for building your own slab saw?
My wife and I create beautiful wire wrapped jewelry (which you will soon
be able to see on the gallery). I am also a lapidary. My problem is,
being a struggling artist, it’s very difficult to put out the BIG bucks
for lap equipment that is needed. I am in need of a slab saw (say a 16"
to 18") but can’t afford the hefty price tag of a new one. Besides
looking for a used saw, I was curious if anybody has any plans for
building your own saw or if there are any kits available. If so, what
kind of expense am I looking at? How reliable are they?
Any help you can send my way is greatly appreciated.
Rick Stutt
Wire Wrapping Etcetera
E-mail: yrrapr@aol.com
Okay all you lapidarys, got a question for you. I’m wondering if there
are any kits out there (or plans) for building your own slab saw?
Try searching some of the on-line resources such as the Ecletic Lapidary, http://www.bovagems.com/eclectic/, or Bob’s Rock Shop, http://www.rockhounds.com. I’ve seen plans for building your own
equipment, and there may be a trim saw in there somewhere. Good luck!
Besides looking for a used saw, I was curious if anybody has any plans for
building your own saw or if there are any kits available.
Try looking in “Gem Cutting” by Sinkankas. There are some basic layouts
for all kind of lapidary equipment, and it’s fairly straightforward and
simple.
I don’t want to discourage you; however let me relate the following
story:
I know a guy who’s pushing 80 years old; a lapidary and jeweler (and
golfer) who is a retired engineer from Ford Motor Co. He told me that he
has built a couple of slab saws in the past, and has never been able to
get them to run as well or as true as a manufactured slab saw. He
advised me (when I asked him the same question you’re asking) not to try
it, but keep looking for a used one or inexpensive new one. Its unusual
for him to give that kind of advice, because he’s usually the one
telling people not to buy whatever tool, but to make it themselves.