Jr. Jewelers (Age 14-17) Metalsmithing 1.5 - Debbie Gates

Jr. Jewelers (Age 14-17) Metalsmithing 1.5 - Debbie Gates

Class | Available

1.5
7/20/2025-7/25/2025
View Schedule
$200.00

Jr. Jewelers (Age 14-17) Metalsmithing 1.5 - Debbie Gates

Class | Available

JUNIOR JEWELERS 1.5:  Ages 14-17 (6 students maximum)

INSTRUCTOR:  DEBBIE GATES

 

This class is an advanced class for Junior Jewelers who have worked with a hand-held torch and are able to work fairly independently. 

We will discuss the proper use and care of various tools.   Identify the most common tools—hammers, mallets, files, Jewelers saw and blade, pliers, etc.   Group and individual safety will be of the upmost importance. 

Students will start by making an 18” chain necklace.  We will start with 16 gauge wire, make jump rings and turn them into a beautiful chain necklace.  We will make an “S” hook as the closure.  This is an important step in learning to solder—using hard, medium, easy and extra easy solder.  And when to use each one.  Using just the right amount of solder—and cleaning up with filing.  We will use the tumbler to polish the chain to a nice shine.

Students will also make a ring with a bezel and cabochon, fabricating the bezel and soldering to a backplate.   Students will determine their ring size –and using the ring chart determine the length of the ring shank.   Discuss the metric system.  They will shape the ring shank and solder to the back of the ring.

Students will then fabricate a pendant with a bezel and cabochon…with the added element of half-beaded or twisted wire and then create a bail.  With this project students will learn to anneal as well as to sweat solder.  We will use the buffing wheel to polish both the ring and pendant. 

Students will then create a pair of earrings with a bezel and stone. We will use templates for the shapes of the earrings, texture the metal, solder bezel  to the sterling and set the stones.  We will make artisan ear wires using 20 gauge wire.

Students will also have the ability to create additional pieces at their discretion.

 

Class Fee:  $275 (includes kits for the chain, ring, pendant and earrings)

Additional kits can also be purchased.

Prerequisites: 

 

Gates, Debbie
Debbie Gates

Debbie began beading in the late 90’s making jewelry for herself and friends.  Her love of turquoise led her to silversmithing and cutting cabochons.  She has studied at William Holland since 2013 honing her craft.  Also, she has studied under Lexie Erickson, Jeff Fulkerson and Leslie Kail Villarreal.  Her work can be found in galleries in the Southeast and out West.  Most of her knowledge has come from taking classes at William Holland.   She has brought her two granddaughters and they have loved their time at William Holland –and have come to love jewelry making.   And she wants to instill the love of rock and metal with other tweens.