Attaching inlays

[bioprof]

What do you use to attach your inlays? I've read on this board that steel pins are most authentic, but where do you get ones with domed heads? I've also read that you can make them from German silver wire, but I don't think I've seen that kind of wire locally. Do you know of a source for pins or wire that can be used to make them?

 

[F.G. Ford]

You can get silver wire from welding supply stores.
To make domed heads drill the center of one end with a small drill bit, about half the diameter of the wire, that you are working with.
Then hold wire in a vise with the wire protruding about 1/16 of an inch, then gently tap with a small ballpein hammer.This will give you a nice flared head.
After hold pin in a drill, and shape with a file while pin is turning. Easy!
Best Regards
Old Ford

 

[Roy]

if you want steel, you can use very small brad nails. I usually cut square nails from the same material that I made the inlay from (thumb pieces, hunters stars) and use them.