I am going to be purchasing some files to use at home rather
than relying on the the sad, tired ones at the Craft Guild where
I take classes (my fifth year–what do you think, should I stick
with this hobby?)
My question posed for round table discussion: if you were to
have only 2 files to use for fabrication and casting cleanup in
sterling silver, which cuts and shapes would you buy? I have a
set of the small files (which I believe are 2s) for those small
spots, but need the large ones for removing more surface.
You can suggest brands, but I’m more interested in shapes and
what they are good for and cutting strength.
I have only two lage files. A regular flat one and a half round
one. These seem to do all jobs that I need a big file for. My
main advice would be to invest in nice high quality files…they
make all the difference in the world!
I have a variety of large files. A favorite of mine is an 8"
overall crossing file. The file I use most is a 7 1/2", $3.50
mill bastard from the hardware across the street. I don’t
hesitate to retire them if they get just a little bit dull. Also
at that price you don’t mind polishing various safe edges on a
few.
I am going to be purchasing some files to use at home rather
than relying on the the sad, tired ones at the Craft Guild
where I take classes (my fifth year--what do you think, should
I stick with this hobby?)
(giggle) I’m surprised that it has taken you SO long to purchase
your own files!!! I got mine after my first class (several years
ago!) I’ve also started to carry my own tweezers to use while
soldering . . .next thing, I may start to carry to “class” is a
charcoal block (one that isn’t covered with holes and flux!!!)
Naw, we should both give up the hobby!!!
My question posed for round table discussion: if you were to
have only 2 files to use for fabrication and casting cleanup in
sterling silver, which cuts and shapes would you buy? I have a
set of the small files (which I believe are 2s) for those small
spots, but need the large ones for removing more surface.
My personal favorites- a 6" ring file and a 4" barette file both
Grobet, both #2 cut. There two files and some needle files (rat
tail, 3 square, 4 square, barette, and crossing) can do most
jobs.
My question posed for round table discussion: if you were to
have only 2 files to use for fabrication and casting cleanup
in sterling silver, which cuts and shapes would you buy? I have
a set of the small files (which I believe are 2s) for those
small spots, but need the large ones for removing more surface.
You can suggest brands, but I'm more interested in shapes and
what they are good for and cutting strength.
Thanks, Sharon Dallas, Texas I would suggest THREE files as
absolutely necessary! Two large (ring sized) files, pointy ends,
half rounds . . . the first in a (american term) Bastard
(course) cut, the second a fine or finishing file. The third
should be a needle half round to do small areas.
OK, I counted the files on my bench: 25. Of these, 5 are in
constant use. My fave would be a grobet flat 6"flat file, which
by the way I have mounted into an ergonmically correct handle,
which I’ll swear by! I also constantly use a barette and 1/2
round, both 6" and all #4 cut. I work pretty much only in gold
and plat, you would want to go with a heartier cut for SS. I
also utilize a big ol’ bastard file for ultra quick removal of
metal, like the nubbin where I cut my sprues off the castings.
The rest of my files are needles, pretty much the same as Rick
mentioned.
Another plug for Harbor Freight Tools: I purchaced a set of
thier American made Grobet files (about 5" or 6") for about $17
and they are really wonderful. They actually cut, unlike many
files I’ve been getting lately. They also sell a set of needle
files that are ok but not Grobet. They are located in
California and I don’t have the number handy but will post it
when I can find it.