Chasing and Repose
By definition chasing is:
an ancient technique used to incise lines into metal, it can be used to create linear patterns on flat or shaped sheet metal, and is used to sharpen details on castings.
repose is:
one of the oldest metalsmithing techniques in the world. The word comes from the French verb meaning “to push back”. its the process of creating volumetric forms by pushing metal.
Special tools are needed for chasing and repose, they are generally made from steel and can be bought or made. Examples of the tools are pictured below along with an image of a chasing hammer. Generally a chasing tool is placed on the metal and hammered, while the tool moves in a steady continuous motion. This ensures that the metal stretches evenly.
The first step to the process is annealing your metal. This is done in order to reduce the stress within the metal. In other word, make the metal softer so that its easier to manipulate. To anneal metal all you have to do it heat it to a certain temperature, which varies between different metals.
The next step is to draw your design on the metal. Then the metal is ready to be placed in pitch. Pitch is basically a tar like substance that softens when its heated. It’s used help you stretch the metal without breaking through. A picture of the sample I’m working on in the pitch is also below.
So once you’re all set up the next step is to start hammering your design into the metal, this step is the repose part. Once a basic form is made in the metal the piece needs to be removed from the pitch and flipped over. Refining the design on the flipped side( now the front) is chasing.
The sample I’m working on right now is being done in copper, but for my final piece I’ll be making it out of silver. That’s all for this now!
Chris St. John said,
September 16, 2008 at 3:39 pm
I’ve never taken Metalsmithing (actually wanted to get into Amber’s class this semester, but failed), so it’ll be interesting to read your blog over the next couple of months. I find this type of insight into the specific processes to be really compelling, so thanks for the hands-on perspective! I’m looking forward to seeing any work that you decide to post online as well.
Ryan said,
September 16, 2008 at 3:47 pm
It looks like you are off to a good start. I’ll be checking back to see what the final version looks like. If I may make a suggestion: I think titling and captioning your images would be a good idea. It may be clear what they are to you and people who are familiar with this process but some people may not know what the picture is, and captions and/or titles will help out a lot.