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Fandango Border

Here's another bright, sparkling border that is especially nice on jewelry, but don't hesitate to try it on other items. To cut this border I use a GRS GraverMach with Airtact, a 120° graver, beading tool, and circle template (1/4" size circle).

 

fandango
1.) After cutting my two horizontal lines 3mm apart, I use the circle template to scribe semi-circles. When scribing and cutting the semi-circles, I leave enough space at the bottom line for my second set of semi-circles.
fandango
2.) Using the first cut as my guide, I place one foot of the dividers in the cut and scribe the 2nd set to connect with the bottom line.
fandango
3.) A beading tool is used to punch a round bead in the center of the semi-circles and the V-shaped area between them. I always use beading tools in my 901 handpiece, and choose a size I feel is appropriate for the job.
fandango
4.) Lay the 120° graver in the straight border line, roll it to the right a few degrees, and make a bright cut from the ring around the bead toward the semi-circle border. It's important to stop short of the semi-circle and leave enough room for the next cut.
fandango
5.) The next cut begins in the ring with the graver tilted to left. Cut next to the first cut to created a raised center. Note how the cut makes a turn at the end as it connects to the semi-circle. These two cuts create one element with a raised center.
fandango
6.) Repeat the previous steps to create another element. Don't forget to leave some space with the first cut so the second cut can connect with the semi-circle with a nice curve.
fandango
7.) When cutting the right side of the fan, the graver will be rolled in the opposite direction.
fandango
8.) Triangular areas between the semi-circles are filled with the same elements.
fandango
9.) The completed fandango border is highly reflective and bright, and cutting from inside the bead's ring creates well defined beads.
fandango
10.) A couple of white reflectors in this photo help to show cutting detail. Once you've developed a feel for cutting this border, it will go relatively fast. The sparkle factor can be a crowd pleaser for those doing jewelry engraving! the end