One of our recent subscriber-only projects, Layered Silver-Disk Bracelet, says to use a rolling mill to flatten and shape silver disks. Since posting the project, we've received some reader concerns about the high cost of rolling mills, which are priced anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

I asked Associate Editor Addie Kidd if rolling mills always have a high price tag, and whether cheaper substitutes could be found. Here's what she said:

"Unfortunately that’s the cost of those machines. You can find cheaper imported models, but their rollers aren’t as good and the mechanisms can be badly made. And they likely won’t last as long. I would recommend waiting until you could invest in a base model."

Addie had additional advice for anyone looking to buy a rolling mill. She said, "Make sure to consider rollers — you can buy flat (for sheet), or grooved (for making wire), or a combination of both. Some machines have interchangeable rollers and others are fixed. Consider roller width, and buy something that will hopefully grow along with your jewelry making. The versatility would be worth it in the end."

Addie said that while cheaper sources can be found through exhaustive Internet searches, the lower price tag will probably show through in the quality of the mill. She suggested checking eBay for a second-hand mill or asking around at local jewelry stores to see if they know of anyone who's selling one. "Like with cars, an older used-but-solid model is often better and more reliable than a new cheaply made model," Addie pointed out.

If you've found a great rolling mill at a great price, or if you'd like to share your own tips on purchasing a rolling mill, please leave a comment. To read a review of the rolling mill pictured, visit our product review page.

—Katie