Blades for cutting copper?

[Iguanadon]

I have a vendor friend at the farmers market who makes copper bracelets and he'd like to try cutting some designs in the copper.  

 

Here is a similar image of what he makes.  http://www.billythetree.com/altJewelryCollection/22842l.jpg

 

What blade is recommended for this?  Standard skip tooth blade?  #5?

 

I told him I'd be happy to help him test trying this before he invests in a scroll saw, etc.

 

Any suggestions and recommendations are appreciated.

 

Iggy

[WayneMahler]

If memory serves me right, you use a jeweler's blade. They are designed for cutting metal on a scroll saw.. Have never done it so will be interesting to hear how this works out.

[hotshot]

Depending on the detail, Jewelers 0/1 or maybe even 1 (less detail less breakage) to 3/0 (more detail, more breakage), pike brand from amazon.com

Edited October 5, 2016 by hotshot

[MrsN]

Almost any blade will cut copper, but smaller is better.

When I cut metal I always sandwich it between two pieces of 1/8" ply. The metal will have a tendency to get caught on the blade and bend if not supported well. A zero clearance table would probably help.

I would cut the copper prior to the hammering and shaping. You will want to do something to finish the edges of the finished cut so they are not sharp.

[DWSUDEKUM]

Randy has the best answer.   They make a jeweler blade of various sizes.  I cut brass a lot, nameplates and this is what I use.

 

DW

[JTTHECLOCKMAN]

I too use jewelers blades to cut metal. I cut brass a lot and use 1/0 blades mostly. Copper is soft and it will gum up your blade easily. 

 

Cut all the brass on this project with jewelers blades.

 

[amazingkevin]

I have a vendor friend at the farmers market who makes copper bracelets and he'd like to try cutting some designs in the copper.  

 

Here is a similar image of what he makes.  http://www.billythetree.com/altJewelryCollection/22842l.jpg

 

What blade is recommended for this?  Standard skip tooth blade?  #5?

 

I told him I'd be happy to help him test trying this before he invests in a scroll saw, etc.

 

Any suggestions and recommendations are appreciated.

 

Iggy

Good of you to help out for a good cause

[Iguanadon]

Thanks everyone for the great information.

[Frank Pellow]

Hey, I have been wondering about that for a future project.  Now, I don't need to ask the question.  Thanks!

[woodchux]

Also agree that jewelry blades are the best way to cut metal, but do take your time at a slow speed. Be safe.

[Scrappile]

I know Mike's workshop has several metal cutting blades listed.  I don't know how good they are, I have never use any.  They are Flying Dutchman blades.