Dynamic Prongs

Objective: Learn how to place prongs manually with the Dynamic Prongs command, adapting their diameter to each area.

Prong Parameters

Click on the “Dynamic Prongs” command and select the surface to position them on. Then adjust the parameters:

• Diameter: 0.6 mm.
• Overflow: 0.3 mm.
• Under girdle: 0.2 mm.
• Manufacturing extension: 0.5 mm.
• In the advanced section, select symmetry in the Y direction.

Position the Prongs on One Arm

We’ll only add prongs to one arm, because the rest will be created later with a polar array.

• Position the first prongs at 0.6 mm, making sure they don’t extend too far beyond the gems but still keep them secure.
• Change the diameter to 0.5 mm and continue adding prongs on the outer part of the arm.
• Use 0.6 mm prongs at the bottom and return to 0.5 mm for the inner part.
• For smaller spaces use 0.45 mm prongs, and 0.4 mm prongs for the tightest areas.

Dummy Prong

Place a dummy prong in the center so the metal doesn’t look too empty.

Confirm

Once the prongs are positioned, select the other side of the metal and accept the command so the prongs are created on the desired side.

Video Lesson

Next Step

Next, we’ll repeat the prongs around the snowflake and cut the metal with the cutters.