I didn't want to squeeze too much information into one blog post. But to continue on the MJSA Show as I only talked about the gemstone part of the show. There is a whole section of tools, programs, and packaging suppliers that showcase there newest innovations. I went to the tool section last as gemstone buying was my main priority. 

Rio Grande had an impressive set up with all sorts of high end gadgets for the bench jeweler and manufacturer. To be honest I didn't spend a lot of time there due to time constraints and I had plans to meet with Pepe Tools to check out there demos and machines. By the time I got to the tools I only had an hour left. 

It was great to finally meet with David from Pepe Tools. Him and his father who proudly manufacture there products here in the USA, were at the show ready to showcase there products for small bench jewelers like myself to larger companies. This is a great way to see tools in action before making larger purchases. I highly recommend visiting a trade show for this reason alone.

I have been working with David the past few months with there tools. He has been beyond generous with partnering with my company providing tools, instructions and overall support for my brand. My rolling mill as most of you know has been a wonderful addition to my shop. I use it weekly and mostly for practical purposes such as rolling bezel wire, and manipulating shapes with wire I already have to create new shapes and sizes I don't stock.

While at the show David and his father gave me a tour of the motorized rolling mills. Which requires no cranking and a continuous rolling speed to produce quick and effective results for projects. Making pattern like bands with new techniques I never even seen to achieve awesome results. There were disk cutters, soldering picks, mandrels, jump ring makers and best of all my new Superior Ring Bender!

I think most of you know or own a ring bender. It basically takes the stress of your hands for bending all types of wires to create rings, cuffs or anything your heart desires. This kit includes the ring bender which can be mounted to a bench or mounted in your vise if you don't wish to drill holes in your bench.

Inside the box includes: (Text taken from www.pepetools.com)

• HDPE Precision Machined Organizing Base
• Precision Matching Post & Dies - Machined from solid steel and then hardened to 45-50 HRC. After hardening, each steel post and die is nickel plated for a lifetime of corrosion free use.
• 16 piece set. NEW FOR 2016 - Now Includes 18MM Post & Dies in addition to a matching 18MM Delrin die
• Round: 12mm, 14mm, 16mm, 18mm, 20mm, and 22mm
• Post : 60deg and 90deg 
• 24mm shank for increased durability

After unwrapping the machine from its packaging this is what it looks like!

All you have to do at this point is attach the handle which allows for you to pull the lever and choose an appropriate die for your project and it bends the metal with ease and little force as the machine will do the work for you.

It also comes with matching plastic dies which I assume give less marring on the metal. I will be testing these out as well!

I plan on doing some videos on my instagram to showcase different projects where I utilize the ring bending tool! Stay tuned for a more updated blog post as well with my thoughts on the Pepe tools Superior Ring Bender. 

Pepe also provided me with patterned sheets, stickers and other cool little gadgets for my rolling mill. Stay tuned this weekend I am trying to edit a video using those pattern sheets!

I also visited Otto Frei while I was at the tool portion of the expo. Stuller use to carry a bur caddy that I wanted. When I saw they offered one I jumped! I've had the Foredom one that came with my flex shaft for years but I have always wanted something more functional. This six sided hexagon also has holes in the top for larger items as well as an opening to store things in the middle. A magnetic stripe as well to attach items to. Super functional and comes in two sizes. I didn't even know they carried two sizes until I looked it up online. I wish I knew I would have gotten the 10" high as you can never have enough storage space for your burs. I have the 8" high which is still super functional (it actually measures 7" high). These run between $42.95-45.95 click the link here to shop. 

Thanks again for checking out my blog. I hope you guys are enjoying my regular blog posts. I really like doing these, its a nice way to keep in touch and keep everyone informed on whats going on at the bench!

Happy Friday

Michelle x