Exploring Soldering Blocks For Jewelry Making

The Unofficial Silversmith Guide: My Favorite Soldering Blocks For Jewelry Making

 

Soldering is one of the core parts of silversmithing, and over the years, I’ve come to rely on a few trusty tools to make the process as smooth as possible. Today, I’m sharing my take on the soldering blocks I use most often: Solderite, Honeycomb, and Charcoal. Each has its own purpose, and knowing when to use which one can make all the difference in your work. 

 

Solderite Pads: My Reliable Workhorse

If you’ve spent any time at a jewelry bench, chances are you’ve run into a Solderite pad. It’s that no-nonsense, always-there-when-you-need-it kind of tool. I use mine for bigger projects like cuffs or pendants because it’s super heat-resistant and gives me a nice, smooth surface to work on.

What I Love About It:

• Keeps Things Safe: It protects my workbench from heat damage

• Even Heat: The surface heats evenly, so I don’t have to worry about scorching one spot while the rest stays cool.

If you’re just getting started, this is a great all-around option that’s affordable and low-maintenance.

 

Honeycomb Blocks: The Precision Pro

The honeycomb block is perfect for those projects that need a little extra finesse. The tiny holes allow you to pin your work in place, which is a game changer when you’re working with delicate pieces or need to hold something at a tricky angle. I grab this block when I’m tackling larger statement pieces that require even heating across the board.

 

Why It’s a Favorite:

• Even Heat Distribution: The perforations make sure everything heats up evenly, which is key for clean solder joints.

• Reduces Oxidation: The open structure lets air circulate, which helps keep your metal nice and shiny.

• Versatile: Those little holes are handy for securing pieces, especially if you’re working with something awkwardly shaped.

 

Pro tip: Over time, the heat will break down your honeycomb block, but that’s totally normal. It just means you’re putting it to good use!

 

Charcoal Blocks: My First Love

When I first started out, I used a small butane torch and a charcoal block, and let me tell you—they were a match made in heaven. Charcoal blocks are like the unsung heroes of the soldering world. They reflect and retain heat like nothing else, which is a lifesaver when you’re working with a smaller torch or trying to hit higher temps for harder solders.

 

Why I Keep Going Back to It:

• Heat Amplifier: Charcoal blocks bounce the heat right back at your piece, so your torch doesn’t have to work as hard.

• Customizable: You can carve little grooves into the block to hold your workpiece in place.

• Oxidation Helper: The charcoal creates a slightly reducing environment, which helps cut down on pesky oxidation.

 

They do wear out after a while, but for how affordable and useful they are, I’ll never not have one in my toolbox.

 

So, Which One Should You Use?

 

Honestly, it depends on what you’re working on:

• Go with Solderite for a solid, all-purpose option 

• Pick Honeycomb for precision and even heat when you’re doing delicate or complex work.

• Reach for a Charcoal Block when you need to maximize heat efficiency, especially with a smaller torch.

 

Personally, I rotate between all three depending on the day and the project. They each have their strengths, and learning how to use them to their full potential has made a big difference in my soldering game.

 

Final Thoughts

 

These blocks might not be the flashiest tools in the studio, but they’re the backbone of so many of my projects. If you’re new to silversmithing, start with one that feels right for your work, and you’ll figure out what works best for you as you go.

Happy Smithing! 

xo kellie