Using a hardened bronze flat to remove excess gold from wire inlay

[AllenClapp]

Some time ago, I saw a reference from an engraver that made flats for removing excess gold from wire inlays, but there was no reference to what type of bronze was used or if it required additional hardening. Do any of you use a hardened bronze flat for this purpose? If so, what bronze did you use? Did you do anything to further harder it? Sources? Looking at metal suppliers websites, there is a mindboggling number of different types of bronze with widely varying characteristics. So far, I haven't had much issue with using a carbide flat, but I would like to try a bronze one to see the difference. Suggestions?

 

[JJ Roberts]

Al, Lynton McKenzie gun engraver used an old US copper penny to remove excess gold inlayed wire. J.J.

 

[Dave London]

I have used a steel flat wood carving chisel with the corners slightly rounded , by hand YMMV MTC

 

[SamW]

I mostly do as Dave says...but I have posted quite a while ago using bronze spring material for trimming gold inlays that were set after the piece had been electroless nickel plated. The cavity and undercuts/teeth were done prior to plating.

 

[Roger Bleile]

My brother used German silver rod that he shaped into a flat for shaving down gold wire inlay. The flat wears down pretty fast but it is easily resharpened.

 

[sam]

I tried using a copper or brass chisel years ago. I should probably revisit that. Trimming back inlaid borders is a PITA with a hand graver, and can obviously create a huge mess if you're not extremely careful with it.

 

[Mike Bissell]

I use a piece of brazing rod as a source for brass. Then shape it into a traditional flat graver. The brass won't cut the steel but easily cuts the gold.

 

[FANCYGUN]

Dang Mr Bissell Brazing rod ! that's a whole lot easier than the sheet brass I have been using after work hardening it.

 

[John B.]

Repeating myself. I have said this before, but that's what happens when old age creeps in
Some electric switches and breakers have hard bronze flat springs.
They make great gold trimming flats.

 

[Marianne]

I use a piece of brazing rod as a source for brass. Then shape it into a traditional flat graver. The brass won't cut the steel but easily cuts the gold.

So just a regular brazing rod that you buy at the welding store? Thank You!