Silverclay Jewellery Workshop - Part-time

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Arts University Bournemouth

Comments about Silverclay Jewellery Workshop - Part-time - Bournemouth - Dorset

• Course description

  Learn how to design and make your own unique, stunning silver jewellery!

  This beginners’ course is designed for people who wish to learn how to make pure silver jewellery using metal (silver) clay. It is an introductory course, which is intended for those who have never used metal clay before.

  It is ideal, not only for those people who have never made any jewellery before at all, but also for those who have some experience of traditional silver-smithing methods using sterling silver, and wish to develop some completely different techniques to complement their existing skills and knowledge.

  Metal clay is a substance consisting of tiny silver particles held together with an organic binder and water. This renders the silver into a clay-like substance. When the clay is fired (with a gas torch or in a kiln) the binder burns away and you are left with solid silver. This is purer than sterling silver and can be hallmarked.

  One of the great advantages of working in metal clay is that it is relatively easy to continue working at home after the class without a big investment, as you don’t need many tools or specialist equipment. In addition to fundamental design considerations, techniques covered in this course may include:

  • Rolling out the clay to a consistent thickness
  • Mould-making
  • Texturing and cutting out shapes
  • Sanding, polishing and burnishing
  • Torch firing and basics of kiln firing
  • Use of syringe paste
  • Basic stone-setting

  While learning basic techniques you will embark upon a series of small jewellery projects utilizing the skills you have learned. These projects may typically include such items as pendants, earrings, rings and brooches, of your own design.

  You will be given as much flexibility as possible in terms of design and experimentation. By the end of the course you should have enough skills to start making jewellery from home.

  Your tutor will also be happy to discuss aspects such as photographing and costing your work for sale.

  What you need to bring:

  The tutor will provide all materials.

  Please note, students attending this course should be aware that in addition to the course fee there are additional material costs. You will be expected to pay for all the silver and any additional materials on a pay-as-you-go basis.

  The cost per student will vary, depending on the amount of silver used, but as a rough guide, a small charm will cost approximately £6-£10 depending on the size. A medium-sized pendant will cost approximately £20.

  Throughout the entire course you may expect to pay on average about £120, though students working to a strict budget would be able to reduce this amount by making mainly smaller pieces

  Dates

  Autumn Term

  • Saturday 15th & 29th Oct, 12th & 26th Nov, 10th Dec 2016

  Spring Term

  • Saturday 28th Jan, 11th & 25th Feb, 11th & 25th March 2017

  Class size

  Maximum 12 students

  If you would like to receive a Short Courses Z-Card please get in touch.

   

  Duration: 5 alternate Saturdays 9am-4pm Fees: £259

   

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