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Decorative File Carving
Learn how to master the hand file and add embellishments to your work through decorative filing techniques! In this virtual course, students will explore this deceptively simple tool in depth and will gain knowledge about the various types of files on the market, their applications, and how to get the most out of their function. Add another notch onto your metalsmithing repertoire through this unique course intended for students who have a basic understanding of filing and want to learn how to add various types of pattern and flourish onto their jewelry surfaces.
For more information about virtual courses, visit our Virtual Course FAQ page.
Please read the Materials & Tools tab!
Meet the instructor
William Vanaria is a Massachusetts based artist with a penchant for oddball materials. His work utilizes traditional metalsmithing techniques and a wide verity of non-traditional materials to produce jewelry which both questions and comments on notions of romanticism, value, fakery, and the hierarchy of materials present within modern day consumer culture. Through his work he pushes for a broader system of value which has been formulated though experience, consideration, and critical thinking.
William received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the Massachusetts College of Art and Design with a concentration in "Jewelry & Metalsmithing" in 2012. Afterwards, he spent time working within the jewelry industry and volunteering as a teacher's assistant for various art institutions. He found that the latter was much more fulfilling, so he went on to further his education within the arts and to pursue a career in teaching. William received his Masters of Fine Arts degree from the University of Massachusetts: Dartmouth in 2016; once again with a concentration in "Jewelry & Metalsmithing."
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 (in red) to be redirected to a page where you can find 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 strongly encouraged but not required - observers are welcome.
Metal/raw materials (sterling silver recommended but other metal will work):
- 6" x rectangular wire - 2mm x 1.5mm (Rio Grande)
Hand tools:
- 1 x jewelers saw frame (Rio Grande)
- 1 x pack of saw blades - #2/0 (Rio Grande)
- 1 x pack of saw blades - #2 (Rio Grande)
- 1 x digital calipers - optional (Rio Grande)
- 1 x small metal ruler - millimeters (Rio Grande)
- 1 x scribe (Rio Grande)
- 1 x pack 320 or 400 grit sandpaper (Rio Grande)
- 1 x 3M finishing and sanding stick (Rio Grande)
- 1 x bench pin (Rio Grande)
- 1 x needle file set - #2 medium cut (Contenti)
The instructor will demo two optional items, for those who have a rotary hand piece.
- 1 x pack polishing wheels - black medium (Rio Grande)
- 1 x 1/16" screw mandrel - 3/32" shank (Rio Grande)
Other/miscellaneous items:
- safety glasses
- flat work surface