Lesson 4: Pyramid

Lesson 4: Pyramid

• Draw out your pyramid from a side (profile) view. Do this on paper first, and then on metal.
• Measure from the tip of the pyramid to the bottom points, set dividers, and scribe an arc.
• If doing an open top, follow the same step to scribe the arc for the top as well.
• Measure the distance between the 2 bottom points, and set dividers to that distance.
• Mark off that distance 2 times on the right and one on the left for a total of 4 sides. Make tic marks where the dividers meet the scribed arc.
• Repeat with the top marks if open.
• Draw a straight line connecting the each point where the arc and tic marks intersect. This will mark out your 4 sides.
• Repeat with the top set of marks if open.
• Draw straight lines from the center point out through the intersections.
• Make sure that these lines are scribed deep and straight.
• Cut out your template.
• File the edges.
• If closed, file the down the thickness of the metal at the top.
• Begin with your triangle (3-square) needle file and score along the deep scribe marks.
• When you are 2/3 of the way through the thickness of the metal, switch to your square needle file.
• You should be 95-98% of the way through the thickness of the metal.
• File the side edges of the template to a 45 degree angle.
• Measure the thickness of your metal (20ga=.8mm). Mark this distance on the top of your sheet.
• File from the bottom edge to that line- this will give you a 45 degree angle.
• Bend the pyramid together along the scored lines.
• Solder all of the score/bend joints.
• Solder the 2 edges together.
• Hold with binding wire if needed while soldering.
• Use your triangle or square needle file to clean up any excess solder- both inside and out.
• True the form on the square bezel or ring mandrel, or on the small anvil.
• Planish the sides.
• File the bottom edges flat.
• Use the steel square to make sure that all angles are 90 degrees.
• Solder to a bottom plate.
• If open, also solder to a top plate.
• Cut off excess and file.
• File and sand to 600 grit.

Homework:

Using 20 ga. brass, create an open-top pyramid. Height between 1-1.5”, and the bottom of each side should be no smaller than 1”. Pyramid should be soldered both top and bottom with no visible airholes and finished to 600 grit.

Due beginning of class October 3.