SILVER I
INSTRUCTOR: HEIDI MANDICH
Discover the thrill of using hammers, tools, saw, torch and imagination to transform plain pieces of metal and wire into beautiful wearable jewelry. Experience the advantages of using Argentium sterling silver (940) in your work. In this week of discovery, we will learn safe studio practices and the basic fundamentals of silversmithing: forging, forming; adding texture; shaping, sawing, piercing and filing. We will also focus on soldering, cold connections and basic stone setting. These skills will be explored through the creation of 4 group projects (2 bracelets, spinner ring plus sawing exercise) along with one project piece custom designed by the student that will include a set stone. The goal of this class is to gain comfort using a torch to anneal and solder; learn how to use hammers, punches and machines to texture and shape, develop proper techniques to saw, file, create cold connections and set a stone. The class fee includes printed materials for techniques and step by step detailed instructions for projects along with consumables (fuel, solder, flux, patina, sawblades, drill bits, solder brick, sandpaper, use of tools, equipment plus specialty tools provided by instructor and materials to complete 3 group projects, one in copper: two in Argentium sterling silver. Argentium for other projects will be available to purchase. Please wear closed toed shoes and have eye protection – glasses or readers are fine or safety glasses. If you have long hair, please have a way to tie it back. The materials fee includes Argentium sterling silver at market price (with the benefit of instructor’s volume discount) and comfort that, if you have an issue, it can be exchanged for a new replacement piece of the same size; cabochons based on size and stone choice and some tools will also be available for purchase.
Class Fee: $195 (4 group projects are included in the Class Fee)
Est Materials Fee: $50-250
Prerequisite: None
Additional Class Offerings: 04/28/2024, 08/11/2024