How to Prep Your Jewelry Vice with Moleskin: A Step-by-Step Guide

Working with jewelry often requires holding delicate pieces securely without damaging them. One of the best ways to protect your precious metals is by adding moleskin to your jewelry vice. This simple modification creates a non-marking surface that prevents scratches and dents. In this guide, I'll walk you through the process of prepping your vice with moleskin for safer jewelry work.

What You'll Need

• Jewelry vice
• Moleskin padding (available at most pharmacies)
• Scissors
• Clean surface to work on

Step 1: Prepare Your Vice

Before applying new moleskin, make sure your vice is completely clean. If there's old moleskin on the jaws, remove it entirely and clean the surface thoroughly. This ensures the new moleskin will adhere properly.

Step 2: Measure and Cut the Moleskin

Standard moleskin sheets typically don't match the exact dimensions of your vice jaws. For the best coverage:

• Position the moleskin so it reaches across the bottom edge of the jaw
• Plan to have enough material to curl up over the top edge
• Mark where you need to cut (usually you'll need to trim the width)
• For easier application, create a center crease by folding the moleskin in half and pressing firmly

Step 3: Apply the First Piece

• Remove the backing from your cut piece of moleskin
• Carefully align it with the bottom edge of the vice jaw
• Press firmly to ensure good adhesion
• Bend the moleskin over the top ridge of the jaw
• Smooth down all areas to eliminate any air bubbles

Step 4: Apply the Second Piece

You have two options for the second piece:

1. Overlapping method: Place the second piece so it overlaps with the first piece in the middle. Note that this creates four layers of padding in the center, which might prevent the jaws from closing completely at the ends.
2. Minimal overlap method (recommended): Cut the second piece to fit with just a slight overlap. For better balance, stagger the joint so it's at the opposite end of the vice from the first piece's joint.

Step 5: Secure Everything

Once both pieces are positioned, give the entire surface a firm rub down to ensure all edges and surfaces are securely attached.

Step 6: Repeat for the Opposite Jaw

Follow the same process to apply moleskin to the opposite jaw of your vice.

Pro Tips

• When cutting moleskin, make clean, straight cuts for the most professional finish
• If you work with particularly delicate pieces, consider using double layers throughout
• Replace your moleskin when it becomes worn or marked
• Keep extra moleskin on hand for quick replacements

By taking a few minutes to add moleskin to your jewelry vice, you'll create a safer work environment for your precious pieces. This simple modification can prevent costly damage and give you peace of mind when working with valuable materials.

Happy crafting!