Lesson 8: Connections

Lesson 8: Connections

Connections for hollow constructions can be simple or very complex. Because of the steps of construction, you need to have a blueprint for your connections as you start fabrication since many connections need to be set up or fabricated in between hollow construction steps.

T-Bar or Ball/Socket links:

Both the T-bar and and Ball/Socket links function the same way. The crossbar of the T or ball sits inside the hollow construction. The other side can either be a fixed link soldered onto the form or the same (sitting inside for movement)

• Create your hollow forms but leave them open.
• Create the links- only put T or ball on one side.
• Drill hole in your form where the connection point is and slide link through hole.
• Solder that form closed. Hold the part of the link outside the form in a third hand to prevent from dropping into the form.
• When doing this you do not need an additional air hole.
• If fixed on other side:
• Close second form- placing the air hole where the connection point will be is will allow you to hide the hole under the link.
• Solder link to second form (over air hole if applicable)
• If moveable:
• Drill hole for connection in second form.
• Feed link through hole.
• Solder second T or ball onto the end of the link inside the form.
• Solder the form closed.

Jump Rings:

• Close your forms.
• Solder half jump rings to the form where you want your connections.
• Finish the forms to final finish (minus patina).
• Link the forms together and solder the final ring.

Tube Hinges:

Tube hinges work best for longer hinges.

• Close forms.
• Solder knuckles on to forms.
• Solder knuckles to one side, then measure and mark the other side. Cut the tubing a little longer than you need so you can file down for a perfect fit.
• Ball one end of the hinge pin and feed through.
• Set the other end.
• For tricky and inset hinges, chasing tools work well to reach into tight areas.

Sheet/Rod hinges:

These types of hinges can work very well for hollow forms and for small hinges.

• Take a sheet and fold into a U.
• Alternately cut out a slot in a thicker rod to form a U shape.
• Fit single sheet or rod into the opening to complete the hinge.
• Drill hole through.
• Solder U to first form.
• Solder single sheet or rod to other form.
• Ball up one side of hinge pin and feed through.
• Set other side.

Rivets:

You can rivet forms together as well. This is tricky, and mostly used for when you want 2 forms pivoting around each other.

• Create forms but leave open. One form should have the side to be riveted already attached, then other one should not.
• Drill hole for your rivet.
• Ball one end of the wire, feed through the separate sheet and cut to length.
• Place on block and set.
• Solder both forms closed.

Other connections:

• Drill holes and feed a jump ring through the holes.
• Drill holes and thread together. Feed small lengths of tube between forms to separate.