This paper expands the current body of knowledge about mild (low-carbon) steel and fused gold by exploring innovations such as fusing silver, copper, shakudo, shibuichi and various alloys to steel. It summarizes results of comparative experiments identifying best practices for working with steel including annealing, forming, soldering, patination and sealing the steel. In addition, it examines the feasibility of fusing a wide range of metals and alloys to steel and assesses their coverage, flow, finish and color. The paper goes on to explore methods to control and limit the flow of fused gold and other metals across the surface of steel. It discusses the efficacy and processes involved in diffusion and mechanically bonding metals to steel including keum-boo. Finally, various steel patination methods to determine intensity, color and durability will be compared and preferred methods for application will be shared.

Author: Bette Barnett