Lost Wax Jewellery Tools

These quality lost wax jewellery making tools are all you need to start making your own collection of jewellery from home. 

The Lost Wax Jewellery Tool Starter Kit includes everything you need to set up a home studio for Lost Wax Ring Carving, including a bench pin that can be clamped to any table to turn it into a workbench. We've also created another version of this kit with some tools removed. This is the kit you need to choose if you already own or also want to buy the Premium Jewellery Tool Kit.

Beware, there are plastic imitation Matt ring sizers on the market. While sizers might look similar, the blade is of a lesser quality, so it doesn't shave the wax as smoothly. This means extra time cleaning up the ring before or after it has been cast. The cheaper imitations are made from plastic, not wood.

We have purchased several of these less expensive tools to test in the studio and there was a big difference between the fakes and the quality Matt one. 

Introduction

Wax carving is a great technique used in jewellery making to create intricate designs and patterns. With the right tools and materials you can learn to carve wax and make beautiful jewellery. In this article we will cover the basics of wax carving, including the materials and supplies needed, essential tools and tips and techniques for getting started. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your skills understanding the fundamentals of wax carving will make your jewellery making more enjoyable.

Materials and Supplies

To get started with wax carving you will need a few basic materials and supplies. These are:

• Wax blocks or sheets: These are the raw material you will be working with. Wax blocks come in all shapes and sizes and can be carved and shaped to create intricate designs. These are the foundation of your wax carving projects.

• Wax carving tools: These are specialised tools designed for carving wax. They come in all shapes and sizes and are used to shape and detail your wax designs. Invest in a good set of wax carving tools and your work will be more precise and fun.

• Ring size and wax wire assortment: These are used to make rings and other jewellery that require a specific size and shape. Having a variety of sizes and shapes will allow you to experiment and perfect your designs.

• Carving wax blocks and wax modelling tools: These are used to shape and detail your wax designs and come in all shapes and sizes. These are used to add fine details and finishing touches to your jewellery.

Essential Tools for Wax Carving

You will need a few essential tools to get started with wax carving. These are:

• Wax carving knife: This is a specialised knife for carving wax. It’s used to shape and detail your wax designs. A sharp high quality wax carving knife is crucial for clean cuts and precise details.

• Wax files: These are used to smooth and shape your wax designs and come in all shapes and sizes. Wax files will refine your designs and give you a smooth finish.

• Wax saw: This is used to cut and shape your wax designs and comes in all shapes and sizes. A wax saw is essential for making precise cuts and removing large sections of wax.*

• Precision wax carving tools: These are specialised tools for carving wax and are used to create intricate details and patterns. Precision tools will allow you to add fine details and high craftsmanship to your jewellery.

The Lost Wax Process

The lost wax process is a traditional technique used in jewellery making to make custom pieces. It involves creating a wax model of your design, investing it in a refractory material and then casting it in metal. The wax is melted out of the investment and the cavity is filled with metal. This process allows for intricate details and patterns to be created and is a favourite among jewellery makers. The lost wax process is valued for its ability to produce highly detailed and unique jewellery so is a favourite among artisans.

Tips and Techniques

Here are a few tips and techniques to keep in mind when getting started with wax carving:

• Always use a sharp blade: A blunt blade can be hard to work with and can distort your wax. Keep your blades sharp and carving will be easier and more precise.

• Use the right tool for the job: Different tools are for different tasks so make sure to use the right tool for the job. This will give you better results and make the carving process more efficient.

• Practice makes perfect: Wax carving takes practice so don’t be discouraged if your first attempts don’t turn out perfect. Keep practicing and experimenting with different techniques to improve your skills.

• Invest in quality tools: While it may be tempting to buy cheap tools, investing in quality tools will make a big difference in your work. High quality tools are more durable, precise and easier to work with making your jewellery making more enjoyable.

By following these tips and using the right materials and tools you can create beautiful intricate jewellery.

Tips and Techniques

When working with wax you can use a sharp blade for clean cuts and precise details. You can also use a double-ended wax file shape your piece. Using the right tools such as the Ultimate Lost Wax Jewellery Took Kitthat includes a ring sizer and wax wire tube will give you the tools to make designs and patterns more easily. This is especially good for beginners wanting a professional finish.

It's important to keep your workspace clean and organised to avoid any contamination of the wax.