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    Werger.gold link chain
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    Werger.silver gold and pearl necklaces
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    Werger.gold and silver chain with yellow stones

AU, AU, AU!! Gold chains!

This engaging three-session virtual class is dedicated to the craft of artfully fabricating exquisite gold chains. In this comprehensive course, you'll delve into the intricate construction of three distinct chain styles, providing a plethora of creative possibilities!

The instructor will guide students through each session with expertise as they learn the methodology behind the transformation of simple wires into stunning link bracelets, chain link earrings, or even a full, lustrous gold chain. These versatile chains can also be seamlessly combined with other silver chains to create captivating jewelry designs.

Each week a new chain style will be unveiled and focused on, offering insightful design applications and sharing content both verbally, through demonstrations, and presentations.

Come watch the magic of 14KT, 18KT, and 22KT gold come to life as you develop the skills and knowledge to craft exquisite, golden jewelry pieces.

Meet the instructor

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Paulette Werger is a metalsmith and teacher who works in Lebanon, NH. She sells her work both nationally and internationally and is owner of Metalpeople East, a jewelry and hollow ware studio. She has taught metalsmithing at the University of WI, Montana State University, and at craft schools throughout the country.

 

Materials & Tools

The following supplies will be used for course demonstrations and objectives. A suggested item and/or vendor has been provided below for reference. Click the vendor name to be redirected to a page where you can view the item. The quantities needed for each item are listed first. If ordering, please be aware that some items may come in larger quantities than needed for this class. We recommend not opening an item's packaging until the day of the workshop. Student participation during or in-between class sessions is not required - observers are welcome.

 

Metal/raw materials: 

  • 1 foot min. x 14k gold round wire - 24g (Rio Grande)

  • 1 foot min. x 14k gold round wire - 22g (Rio Grande)

  • 1 foot min. x 14k gold round wire - 20g (Rio Grande)

  • 1 foot min. x 18k gold round wire - 24g (Rio Grande)

  • 1 foot min. x 18k gold round wire - 22g (Rio Grande)

  • 1 foot min. x 18k gold round wire - 20g (Rio Grande)

  • 6" min. x 22k gold round wire - 24g (Rio Grande)

  • 14k gold sheet solder - 30g hard (Rio Grande)

  • 18k gold sheet solder - 30g hard (Rio Grande)

 

Torch setup:

  • 1 x fireproof area - steel sheet, tiles, etc. (Amazon or Home Depot)

  • 1 x compressed charcoal block - hard (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x torch - Smith mini, Silversmith, or butane (Rio Grande or Rio Grande)

  • 1 x #0 or #1 torch tip - if getting Silversmith (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x striker or lighter - Silversmith system has one (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x soldering tweezers (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x soldering pick (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x paste flux (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x copper tongs - for pickle (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x 6” silver solder - medium (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x 6” silver solder - easy (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x pickle - sodium bisulfate or citric acid (Rio Grande or Amazon)

  • 1 x brass bristle brush (Rio Grande)

  • 1 x crock pot or lidded glass container (Rio Grande or Amazon)

  • 1 x tempered glass container or sink - for quenching and rinsing

  • 1 x small brush - for flux

  • 1 x liquid hand soap - for cleaning metal

 

Hand tools:

 

Other/miscellaneous items: 

  • hard work surface

  • fan and open window - or ventilation system

  • safety glasses 

  • pencil, Sharpie, notebook

  • rags/towels

 

 

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