Formfolding Class Part 1

Formfolding is a method of creating three dimensional forms in sheet metal without the use of cutting or soldering. The plastic qualities of the metal itself are utilized and a variety of organic shapes can be created. You can see some of the incrediable shapes on this page. The book Foldforming by Charles Lewton-Brain is a comprehesive manual for the art.

Sunday, November 2, I took a class in Formfolding, at the Center for Metal Arts in Florida, NY, taught by Chip Schwartz. A great local place, they also have classes in blacksmithing and other metal work. Check out their schedule here

We started out with a simple line fold. Here Chip is begining the process on an anvil, creating the bend for the first fold in a piece of copper sheet.

After the first fold, the piece is hammered flat with a deadblow hammer. A rubber or rawhide mallet could also be used.

Then he anneals each piece.

Since hammering hardens the metal, heating the copper softens the metal so the plasticity is returned. By repeatedly hammering, bending and annealing a shape can be created.

Here are a couple of my pieces that have been repeatedly hammered, annealed and unfolded.

You can see how the lines appear to flow under or over each other.

If I wanted to use these pieces for a pendant, I'd have to file the edges, drill holes to hang on a chain, pickle the piece to remove the black and the finish it with butcher's wax or Renaissance wax for a protective finish. Of course, I'd also have to stick a glass bead on it somewhere! ☺

Personally I like the variety of colors flamed copper can take on so prior waxing the piece I'd slightly heat it on a torch to bring out some reds, oranges or even blues then coat the metal with a protective wax.