Spider-Mini Support
Quite a few years ago, I featured the Original Spider Hold Down created by David
Lee Smith, the perfect aid to use when a third hand just won’t get you where you
need to be. The original was designed for medium-to-large projects measuring an
inch and up; the new mini features the same design in a smaller size. Both versions of this handy
and versatile tool feature adjustable weight and variable angles to put pressure anywhere you
need it when positioning wires, bails, overlays, or embellishments. Before using the hold down
for the fi rst time, heat the end of each leg to red hot, then allow to cool naturally. This will
enable the carbon steel legs to resist solder fl owing onto them.
More at https://silversmithingclasssupplies.comore at https://silversmithingclasssupplies.compport
eatured the Original Spider Hold Downcreated by David
d to use when a third hand just won’tgetyou whereyou
was designed for medium-to-large projects measuring an
ni features the same design in a smaller size. Both versions of this handy
dj tbl iht d ibl l t t hBezel Holding Set
We’ve had a few reader queries about another holding helper mentioned previously, so here’s the recap. For
those of you who fabricate large bezels, Eugenia Chan’s bezel hold down set is an incredibly simple must-have.
How many times have you thought you cleanly soldered a giant bezel down on a back plate only to discover a
nasty, unsoldered section right after getting everything out of the pickle pot? This soldering aid fi xes the prob-
lem of bezel wire that moves, warps, or twists when fabricating large or uncommonly shaped bezels. Simply
insert the top loop of the holder into a third hand, position that oval base to span across your piece, and push
down the bezel walls from above to keep them fi rmly held against the back plate while you torch. Sold in a set of
three, they’re made of solder-resistant titanium wire and range from ¾" to 1½". Now distributed by EuroTool.
More at http://www.eugenia-c.comCool Tools & Hip Tips
“The perfect aid when a third
hand won’t get you where you
need to be... the new Spider-Mini
hold down features adjustable
weight and variable angles to
put pressure anywhere
you need it when
positioning wires,
bails, overlays, or
embellishments.”16 LAPIDARY JOURNAL JEWELRY ARTIST
14 CoolTools LJ_MJ20.indd 16 3/16/20 3:33 PM