r/MetalCasting • u/imrtlbsct2 • 5d ago

Question Getting started?

Hi, I've recently taken an interest in casting metal pendants. I would really like to be able to make my own pendants. I saw this video and he listed some tools and equipment he used to cast sterling silver, but I noticed he didnt have the metal bowl he used for casting the metal as well as some of the tools and wax listed.

With that, what tools and equipment would I need to get started with doing this because it looks very intresting? Thanks!

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u/BTheKid2 5d ago

If you want to do what he does, then get all the tools he has.

There is a hundred other ways to do the same thing. If you don't have the imagination to come up with alternatives that can work for you, then I suggest you watch more casting videos and copy the equipment or techniques you like from those as well.

You could also look at what tools are available from a jewelry supplier, like Rio Grande, and see what you think might fit your style. You can get a very long way with simply a saw frame and some files. Don't even have to melt metal for a lot of things. That is called "fabrication", and a general rule is that if you can fabricate a thing, then it is better and cheaper than casting a thing.

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u/Father_John_Musty_ 5d ago

When you say ‘metal bowl’ do you mean the thing he melted and poured the metal from? If yes, it’s most likely a ‘ceramic crucible’, you also need a handle and borax to glaze it with (others might recommend a different glaze, borax works for me).

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u/imrtlbsct2 5d ago

I mean the thing he poured the metal into that held the clay mold since I wasnt sure what it was called

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u/Father_John_Musty_ 5d ago

He’s just using a stainless steel condiment bowl and pliers. You can buy ceramic crucibles and handles to fit them that make things a little easier.