Photograph by Katherine Richmond

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Mondays
6.30–9pm

Dates
28 February; 7, 14, 21, 28 March 2022

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£140

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Gift vouchers available

Spaces
We are booking up to 8 people on this course, however this is subject to change based on government guidelines concerning COVID-19.  

Safety
We are committed to working with our artists and communities in continuing to provide opportunities for creativity during these challenging times. Together, we have reconfigured our courses to ensure the safety of all concerned without compromising on quality. Find out more about our new safety measures.

Please read our Covid-19 Booking Terms and Conditions below carefully before booking.

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Who is this class suitable for?
Ages 16+
Suitable for any level of experience.

What will be covered in the class?
Throughout this 5 week course you will be able to explore a range of jewellery making techniques such as chain making, texturing and stone setting and will use these to create bespoke jewellery such as a ring and bracelet. A variety of set projects will enable you to explore the techniques and develop key skills in designing, piercing, filing, forming, soldering, and finishing in silver and copper. Katherine will provide 121 support to help develop your learning and understanding of jewellery making using metal and to enable you to confidently apply the techniques to create professionally finished jewellery items.

The course will be taught through practical demonstration, 121 support, individual projects, handouts and group activities. It is a practical hands on course where you will be able to explore using the wide range of tools and equipment used to make silver jewellery and use them to create your own designs. Examples will be shown and you will also refer to other designer’s work for inspiration. A small amount of optional homework will be set each week to enhance you experience of the course and develop your design development skills.

What will students leave the class with? 
 Learners will leave the course with at least 2 finished pieces of jewellery designed and crafted by hand.

Over the course, you will focus on the following skills and techniques:

Week 1-3: Chain making (earrings or bracelet)

• Beginners – create a simple pair of chain earrings or a bracelet.
  
• Returning learners – create a bespoke chain for an existing pendant or a stand alone necklace or bracelet
  
• Calculate the materials required to make a chain to a specific size
  
• Make different sized jump rings and successfully solder these to create chain links
  
• Add texture to the links using the hammers and rolling mill
  
• Demonstrate safe use of polishing equipment and finishing techniques
  
• Make a simple clasp/earring hook for your design
  

Week 4-5: Stone set ring/pendant with cabochon setting

• Select a suitable stone and materials for your project
  
• Design and make a ring or pendant to incorporate the cabochon setting
  
• Make a simple cabochon setting in silver
  
• Describe and apply a range of soldering methods including butt joins and t-joins
  
• Use setting tools to secure the stone in place by hand
  
• Remove scratches using emery papers and buff sticks
  
• Polish your project to a high shine using polishing tools and equipment

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What will I need to bring?
Tools and equipment are included in the course fee.

Copper materials are included, however other metals such as silver can be purchased from the tutor during the course.

If you would like to include stones in your jewellery, the tutor will advise you on where to purchase. 

Location
Jewellery Studio: the jewellery studio is situated at the top of a flight of stairs. Tools are all light and accessible. Work benches are not currently height adjustable.

Tutor 
Katherine is a professional jewellery designer/maker with a BA (hons) and MA (Distinction) in Jewellery and Silversmithing from Birmingham City University. She has been making for over 20 years and has over 10 years teaching experience. Most recently Katherine has been a Diploma tutor at The British Academy of Jewellery in London and is currently a mentor for Jewellers Academy. Katherine’s work has been featured in a number of publications and her work exhibited as part of Collect at the Saatchi Gallery in London and LOOT at The Museum of Arts and Design in New York.