Start of New Atlas Moth Enamel Project

Jim gordon

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So you can see by the chart ,idle temp begins to drop in relation to mass. 480 gr=1 troy Oz.
Ratio of plastic pattern to silver is approx. 8.8:1, if your projected wt is 100gr then you should add 125% alloy
To the melt. So you would prepare 225 gr. Wt..for casting. Now this not cut in stone, it's just a prediction,that hopefully will account for 'sprues' and leave some alloy for the 'button'. Casting 'buttons' are just a fact of life,if you engage in this sport. Yes, you will add the button to the next casting session! It's the ecology of the casting universe.(we recycle).
I learned the art of casting when Elvis was still in the building. However I know little to nothing about pouring alloy into molds.thats an entirely different game, of which I'm sure their are many whom could help.
Silver seems to be happy with about 5lb O2 and 5lb propane, I use a Harris Torch with rosebud 'H' tip.
I adjust my O2 down to about 3lb, i use a soft reducing flame with, the spikes will be about 1 and 1/4 inches long ,preheat crucible to a gentle orange ,keep your torch moving in a small circle, I pour the silver grain from
A glass jigger, to crucible, wear a full face shield (dark tint) open it about half way ,tilt your head as needed.
Sterling grain will burble some, that means it's not ready, but it will be in about 12 seconds, so open door of
Oven ,grasp casting ring with tongs,set in cradle,slide cradle close to your ring (all the way), let her go!
Now, casting machines can you serious injury. A thorough understanding of them is required!
Always keep a fan on you during casting operations, good ventilation, be aware that propane is highly dangerous if not maintained properly.
Other than that, l like it alot. 20220328_171700.jpg 20220328_171723.jpg
 

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mdengraver

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Never trust the pyrometer! Make sure the kiln elements aren't bright orange on the red side. Looking for dull orange, check piece frequently, it's ok to underfire! The temp in the kiln will vary!
 
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mdengraver, I want to say how sorry I feel for the loss of this and believe me when I say, I had thought about saying absolutely nothing at all in fear of it being taken the wrong way!!!!! I am truly saying this as a fan of your work and of course your sense of sharing with others. thank you again for taking me somewhere I have never been. I can't imagine the feeling because I struggle with simple drawings. I hope this doesn't get taken the wrong way.... thank you again
 

mdengraver

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Stylized Atlas moth project new and revived preliminary sketch. This time I plan on using the champleve technique. Could be etched or engraved, probably etched before enameling.
 

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mdengraver

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The revised drawing is now ready, pen and ink has begun, and the lines are refined in preparation for etching. Progress Pic
 

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mdengraver

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The Atlas Moth has been etched today and if the proper depth has been achieved, I can cut it out, anneal it, shape, and then champleve enameling can begin. If etching needs to continue, I can touch up the black resist and etch some more.
1653973155086.png
 
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