Sealing the Deal with an Iron
A soldering iron is the jeweler’s best friend. They’re user friendly and easy to work with, but they create professional results. You don’t want just any soldering iron, however. Irons used by computer technicians and other hobbyists may be too aggressive for the fine metals and small sizes involved in jewelry making. Furthermore, because jewelry makers work with such a variety of materials, the soldering must stand to the test of the crafter’s workbench. If you’re not sure about what’s the best soldering iron for jewelry making, we’ve got you covered. Check out these top five soldering irons from Amazon that are a hit among jewelry crafters like you.
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Benefits of Using a Soldering Iron
Soldering irons have long been used by jewelry makers to reinforce their work. The best soldering iron for jewelry making is one that’s versatile for multiple materials, while still being compact in size. Above all, safety is the most important. When you’re working with high temperatures, you want to take extra precautions to protect yourself and your work surface. Soldering is great for securing clasps, attaching gemstones, and even bending metal to create rings and settings. Many soldering kits come with extra tools that upgrade your jewelry making experience even more. If that interests you, check out what makes this tool the top selling soldering iron on Amazon.
5 Best Soldering Irons for Jewelry Making
1. JIAHCN Soldering Station and Iron
At a Glance
JIAHCN is a popular brand on Amazon that specializes in microelectronics and repair. Their soldering station complete with iron, attachments, and built in safety mechanisms make this a great pick for both professionals and hobbyists. The biggest feature of JIAHCN design is the station that comes with the iron. It takes care of everything you’d possibly need while working with a soldering iron, from a sponge and built in brass cleaner, temperature control, filament roll, and of course, a stand! The control panel on the station makes it easy to quickly and accurately adjust the temperature, too.
Pros
- Easily adjust temperature
- Built in racks for filament and cleaner
- Auto sleep mode for safety
Cons
- More advanced than some other models
What Reviewers Are Saying
There’s truly very little bad to say about the JIAHCN soldering station. Reviewers rave about the precise temperature control, which is critical for getting a smooth connection between two pieces. Another user discussed how well made and durable it is. Jewelry artists work with soldering irons quite often, so it’s essential to get a tool that’s both reliable and safe. JIAHCN has seemed to nail that aspect, providing every tool you’d possibly need to make your soldering experience complete. It also comes with a few additional tips, as well as some extra nifty tools like a wire stripper and tweezers. If you’re new to soldering altogether, this kit comes with a roll of lead-free solder wire to get you started.
The Final Verdict
While this kit has a higher price point than some of the other irons on this list, it’s definitely a fantastic deal. It has everything you need to get started right away, and plenty of useful tools for those who might already have a few soldering irons in their collection. If safety is an important factor for you, you’ll appreciate the auto shut-off features and heat resitant material. JIAHCN has become the go-to pick for not only jewelry makers, but electricians, stained glass artists, and even guitar and instrument repairists. It’s also the best selling soldering iron on Amazon, for both jewelry makers and electricians. JIAHCN offers quite a few different soldering iron and metal working tools in their store, so if you like this one, you’ll appreciate their other offerings as well.
2. HandsKit Soldering Iron Kit + Bag
At a Glance
If there’s anything jewelry artists love, it’s tools, and this kit by Handskit has loads of them. In addition to a heat resitant stand and temperature adjustable soldering iron, this kit comes with 21 tools altogether. That includes soldering wire, a magnifying glass, three kinds of tweezers, a screwdriver, an exacto knife…the list goes on. One of the more unique tools that this kit includes is a desoldering pump, which you can use to remove metal from areas you’ve already soldered. Otherwise, soldering is a permanent process, and precision is critical–esecially when working with fine materials in jewlery. The desoldering pump provides an extra safety net for those new to soldering.
Pros
- 21 tools including two types of soldering wire
- Carrying case with straps and pockets for everything included
- Sturdy holder for your soldering iron
Cons
- Extra tools aren’t the highest in quality, but are decent
What Reviewers Are Saying
Big things come in small packages, and that’s what reviewers are saying about this soldering iron kit by Handskit. If you’re looking for the best bang for your buck, you really can’t find a better deal. Starting out jewelry artists will appreciate the number of tools, such as the variety of tweezers and screwdriver. The magnifying glass has an LED light to help you work on minuscule areas. Finally, the iron itself is of great quality. In addition to a stand (with a built in sponge), the iron comes with five different iron tips. If you’re a more advanced jewelry artist, you may decide to forego the extra tools you already have and invest more money in the iron itself.
The Final Verdict
You’ve got to admit that seeing the amount of nifty tools and devices this kit comes with is like being a kid in a candy shop. One common mistake that jewelry artists often make is investing in an expensive soldering iron, then having to go back purchase even more tips and tools they hadn’t realized they needed. With a soldering iron, your tips and attachments are just as important as the tool itself. That’s especially true for artists who work with different (and often fine) metals. This kit is a great jumping point to explore using an iron in your work, as well as an all-in-one for advanced makers looking to make the most of their purchase.
3. Klarytyma 60W Adjustable Soldering Iron Kit
At a Glance
You might think that this Klarytyma kit looks bare bones, but it’s anything but. Klarytyma offers a high quality soldering iron kit at a fraction of the cost. If you’re looking for a reliable, precise iron to use in your jewelry making, you’ll obsess over this kit by Klarytyma. It does include quite a few tools, including the iron stand you’ll need, as well as solder wire, tips, and tweezers. This kit is a great option for jewelry artists who are accustomed to using soldering irons and are looking to invest in a high quality tool. It also comes with a mini workbench, which you can rest your tool on as well as place your sponge for cleaning your tips.
Pros
- High quality soldering iron
- Fast heat dissipation
- On/off switch
Cons
- Doesn’t include as many tools and extra attachments
What Reviewers Are Saying
This iron has over 120 5-star reviews. Users appreciate how quick to heat up it is, and the usefulness of the on/off switch on the wire (which is quite uncommon, actually–most irons just plug into the wall). The adjustable temperature dial is quite accurate, and the kit itself comes with everything you need to get started soldering right away. This kit is popular among electronic repairists, DIYers, and even parents fixing their childrens’ broken electronic toys. This iron is a bit more compact in size–about the size of a large pen. The upside to that, however, is that it is easier to work with smaller materials, such as chain links or clasps.
The Final Verdict
There’s no gimmicks with this kit. That’s because Klarytyma put all their effort into making a compact, easy to use soldering iron even for the toughest of jobs. But as a jewelry artist, you’ll appreciate the smaller tip size and ability to work in tight areas. Having a soldering iron on hand is ideal for securing clasps and attaching charms. A well done connection will add an extra layer of safety to your jewelry, as well as a sense of professionalism. This tool is a great option for advanced artists looking to incorporate a heavy duty tool into their product range. The fact that it’s on the smaller side means increased visibility and ease of use.
4. Toauto Soldering Station with Digital Display
At a Glance
Toauto offers a competitive soldering station that has similar features to that of JIAHCN’s. Toauto’s iron is an 80 watt, ceramic iron with an auto shut-off feature. It also comes with extra solder tips, as well as a solder pump. Toauto’s station has both an on/off switch as well as an adjustable temperature dial. It also features a digital display, which is great for getting precise temperatures. One bonus feature is that you can select between Fahrenheit and Celsius settings for the temperature, so no calculations are necessary. It comes with a built in holding stand, as well as a spool for your soldering wire.
Pros
- Switch between Celsius and Fahrenheit
- Easy to read digital display
- On/off switch + auto shut off
Cons
- Has brass cleaner but no built in sponge or cleaning area
What Reviewers Are Saying
Toauto’s design is a bit less ergonomic than JIAHCN’s, but that doesn’t mean reviewers aren’t raving about it. The digital display is a huge plus, as is the fast heat up time. Those features alone make this a great buy for the impatient jewelry artist. Another thing to be said of Toauto’s kit is that it’s long lasting and durable. The on/off switch is a worthy inclusion because it’ll help extend the longetivity of your tool when it’s not in use. It’s a great general working area to put on your crafting table.
The Final Verdict
A soldering station like this one is ultra convenient for jewelry making. Many artists try to get by without one, but having an iron is great for so many uses. For one, it gives piece of mind when it comes to connections and securing stones. Pliers can weaken the metal and cause it to snap, which is not something you want your customer to experience. Before long, you’ll be using your soldering iron on all kinds of things! Toauto made sure to create a product that would withstand just that. Set it up, leave it on your bench, and use it easily without having to haul out a bulky kit.
5. Vastar Soldering Iron with 16-in-1 Kit and Toolbox
At a Glance
This kit is convenience personified. First of all, it comes with an actual toolbox to store all your items. Like the other kits, it comes with quite a few tools to help you along in your crafting process. In particular, it comes with both soldering wire and soldering wick, which you’ll need to use in order to remove solder. The bent neck and micro tweezers were included with jewelry artists in mind. Vastar’s iron can heat up from 200-400ºC, which is around 400-900º Fahrenheit. This wide range of temperature control is perfect for any metals a jewelry artist works with.
Pros
- Made with stainless steel, iron, and ceramic
- Comes with on/off switch
- High temperature resitant tip and threading
Cons
- Stand isn’t too stable, may fall apart
What Reviewers Are Saying
This kit seems to be popular among DIYers and home improvement gurus. Some professional electricians and more advanced hobbyists had some issues, namely along the lines of the desoldering wicks not being pretreated, and some heat resistance issues on other parts of the iron. But for casual projects and your average jewelry maker, this iron works just fine. The toolbox is a major hit, especially since it has more than enough room to store your other tools and supplies. If you do get this kit, some reviewers recommend to get a sturdier stand for safety reasons.
The Final Verdict
Overall, the Vastar soldering kit is a great value. It comes with a useful toolbox, and makes a great starter kit for those just entering the world of jewelry making. Some users have mentioned issues with heat resistance, such as with the threads of the tool. But Vastar boasts that its heat resistance is one of its tool’s greatest strengths. Regardless, its 4.5 star rating with almost 400 reviews is enough to ensure that it’s of decent quality. As Vastar says on its product page, the soldering kit is ready to plug in and start playing with. And as a jewelry maker, you’ll have a lot of fun exploring new options available to you now that you have a soldering iron.
Cool Tools, Hot Deals
No matter where you are in your jewelry making journey, a soldering iron is an essential tool. It’s no longer reserved for the likes of electricians or computer specialists, but now a commonly used tool by hobbyists of many varieties. Some people even use them for wood burning, as those tools are similar. Whatever you use your soldering iron for, be sure to exercise caution before, during, and after use. That includes researching the materials you’ll be working with, and what their melting points are. Having too high or low of a melting point via your tool can cause an unstable connection. Rapid cooling can also cause a bubbled or warped appearance.
Safety First
Whatever tool you pick, make sure it comes with (or pick up) a holder. Holders should be made of a heat resitant tool, preferably iron. Many holders come with built in racks to house your sponges or brass cleaners. Make sure the holder is lifted above your table and that it won’t come in contact with anything. Some people new to soldering don’t realize how hot these tools really get, so it’s important to exercise more caution than you might think you need. Other good ideas to consider include working on a stainless steel or ceramic work surface, that’s clear of any mess. You should always turn off your iron when it’s not in use to minimize any emitting heat damage. You can invest in a heat proof mat to place over your workbench, where you can directly work with metal and soldering wire without worrying.
Taking Your Jewlery to the Next Level
It may not seem like it at first, but soldering irons are fun to use. They’re perfect for jewelry making, although you might find yourself itching to repair all the broken appliances around your house. One other tip? Invest in some heat resistant gloves if you’re worried about burning yourself. And above all, don’t forget to turn your iron off (although most tools come with features to prevent that from happening). Be sure to let your tool cool completely before attempting to switch threads or tips. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to make connections and secure pieces together, without having to rely on a pair of pliers. Which of the picks on this list is the best soldering iron for jewelry makers in your opinion? Let us know in the comments below. Check out some jewelry making kits.