Design a Functioning Metal Jewelry Studio

Design a functioning jewelry studio to increase your productivity and save you time. Of course, there is always the fear of cost; however with a little bit of planning you can build a studio that will serve your needs.

Begin by designating an area that you feel comfortable in and that is away from the general traffic in the house. SAFETY is always the number one consideration when planning you jewelry studio, particularly where you will be sweat-soldering

You want to avoid any carpeted areas or proximity to a heater or other potentially explosive items. Consider the light and ventilation; this is particularly important if you will be working using different chemical compounds. Another important factor is accessibility to water, preferably a sink that is not in the kitchen or near food.

Finding space is not an easy task, I have moved my studio three times and I have finally found a space that works and is practical.

Wet and Dry Areas: Keep dry and wet areas separately: One of the most important things when you are making jewelry is having and maintaining a clean environment. This is particularly important to avoid cross contamination.

Surfaces: Consider the surfaces you use in your studio. You want to make sure that they are resistant and easy to clean. Non-porous materials works best, because they prevent liquids form sipping into the surface. Pay particular attention to your soldering space. You want to have a flame resistant surface that can take the high heat produce by the torch.

Storage: You want to have enough storage for both your jewelry making suppliesand your jewelry making tools. This requires some planning and understanding of tool maintenance. Hammers for example need to be kept in a cushioned and well protected area. This will prevent dents and rust from damaging them. I use a cushioned polyurethane material to cover the drawers were I keep my hammers.

Safety: Take your time and think about the areas that may be producing dust and particles of polishing compounds. You want to keep these areas separately and in a well ventilated area. Chemicals need to have their own separate storage area away from other supplies and materials.

Lighting: Look at both your natural and artificial sources of lighting. This will determine where you place the different areas. You may want to have more natural lighting in the area that you are designing and beading and a more controllable source of lighting in the areas where you are soldering.

Traffic:: Think of the flow of traffic, how every area fits together to give you more efficient and functioning spaces.

Electrical Wiring : Have a clear understanding of the available electrical outlets before you make the final decisions on where to place the equipment in the jewelry studio. You may be able to obtain a copy of the construction blue prints from your local Building Development offices. This is very important because you do not want to overtax the electrical wiring and cause a fire.

Ergonomics: Consider the height of every piece of furniture, you do not want to hurt your back by having to bend as you are working. As jeweler’s bench usually has the following dimensions 39"H x 39"W x 19-1/2"D. Your chair needs to be able to adjust to 19" to 27" in order to give you the most comfortable height.

Air Circulation: Think of the weather in the area you live in. Think if you will need an air conditioning or heat unit in your studio. You also want to take into account an on-going flow of fresh air or an air filter. Remember you will be using different compounds and you want to be able to have fresh air to breath.

The way you design your studio will affect your safety, your stress level and the efficiency of your production. Take the time to plan; you will be happier with the results.

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