Lesson: Other Findings

Lesson 7: Other findings
Pin backs:
• In addition to ear wires, pin backs are also very easy to make and add a lot of value to your piece.
• Use nickel silver instead of sterling- it is stronger and harder.
• You can also use steel. If using steel, remember no pickling!
• Common types of pin backs are the stem and catch (and their endless variations) and the stud variety.
• The stud pin backs are great for heavier brooches/pins that may flop forward if supported by a single stem. You can get these commercially.
• The one drawback of the stud type is that it is harder to affix.
• After soldering your pin backs or stud post, tumble if possible.
• If not tumbling, twist the stud post back and forth with a pair of pliers to harden and hammer the band of the pin stem. If using steel, no hardening is necessary.
Cufflinks:
• Cufflink findings come in several forms: T-Bar, Solid, and Riveted.
• The style preferred by most men is a riveted T-Bar, or T-Bar that is connected with jump rings. This style is easiest to put on and the range of motion keeps the cufflink on better, and puts less stress on the joint between cufflink back and cufflink.
• These can be either hand-made or purchased commercially. If you are planning to use the T-Bar, they are easier to purchase.
Tie Tacks and Tie Clips:
• Tie Tacks are very similar to the Stud style pin back. Some tie tack studs have a small upturned point of metal which helps to keep the tie pin oriented correctly.
• Tie clips slide onto a tie. They are better suited for larger pieces than a tie tack, since the clip finding is larger.
• Both of these are available commercially.