Intermediate Metalsmithing (THURSDAY AFTERNOONS)

This is a LIVE, IN-PERSON event. Please plan to arrive no more than 15 minutes early to the class.

***Please Note: No Classes Week of March 30 - April 10***

1. Class Description and Objectives

We will start this class with a focus on constructing one or more stone settings, building on your previous experience and skill level. With an emphasis on design considerations, suggested projects include rings, pendants with handmade chains, and earrings in sterling silver and gold. Working with gold includes alloying, pouring ingots, as well as fabricating sheet, wire and tubing. On the advanced level, the class prepares those who want to make jewelry professionally, while paying close attention to every student's needs.

2. Prerequisites

Beginners and/or intermediate class in jewelry.

3. Required materials

A blank notebook for designs and class notes, pencil and ink pen.

Stones that you would like to work with. If possible, bring stones that are a little more challenging than what you have already worked with. If you have already worked with round or oval shapes, try a different shape or smaller stones.

Please bring your materials, including silver scraps, to the first class. We will recycle scraps into workable sheets and wires.

Advanced jewelry making includes working with gold, if desired. Any unwanted jewelry from 14k up can be recycled.

It is also okay to work with non-precious metals, copper, brass and others, especially to practice soldering mixed metals.

Silver sheet and wire will be available on site from Dallas Vinson.

• Blank Notebook, Pencil, Ink Pen

• Sterling silver

• 18k or 22k gold (if desired)

• Measuring Tools: Ruler, Calipers, Dividers

• Hand Tools: Half-round hand file, half-round and knife-shaped needle files

4. Topics Covered

LEVEL INTERMEDIATE ADVANCED METALLURGY

Overview of metal properties

Gold Alloys

MEASURING/TRACING

Rectangle

Hexagon, Octagon

BENDING/SCORING

Frame, rectangular bezel

Frame, rect. step bezel

SOLDERING

Review, intro to mini torch

Wire on sheet

Fusing

Complex fabrication, incl. findings

Gold on silver, other mixed metals

Fusing

FILING

Clean-up, rounding, fitting

Patterning, detailing

FORMING

Dapping, tube making

Repousse

FINISHING

Flex shaft and buffing review

Advanced Flex shaft

STONE SETTING

Bezel pushers, other tools

Setting angular stones

INGOTS

Recycle silver into sheet/wire

Recycle and/or alloy gold