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Etched Jewelry

In just one day, students will learn the art of photo-etching brass, copper, and silver. Students will learn how to take a printed image and transform it into a permanently etched pattern on metal. The course will show students how to perfectly transfer the printed image onto their sheet of metal, and then how to use both an acid bath and an electrolytic set-up to eat away the metal needed to recreate the pattern in the metal itself.

There are several steps along the way and tips will be offered so that students can create perfectly etched cuffed bracelets, earrings, and pendants. Students will etch brass to use either as jewelry or to roller print into another piece of metal (or both) and create etched pieces copper and silver, as well.  If you'd like to see more of Wendy's work, please visit her website www.wjnmetaldesigns.com.

Meet the instructor

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"Growing up, I always was mesmerized by sparkling gemstones and metals and I often incorporate something illuminating into my designs. Whether or not I intricately plan a jewelry piece in advance of producing it or just spontaneously fabricate one as I go along, the result is inevitably something that is unique with a contemporary flair that complements, rather than overwhelms, a wearer. When designing jewelry or other metal work, I always think about whether I would wear it, use it, and/or display it. Anyone who knows me sees a reflection of me in what I design.

I produce fine contemporary jewelry and other metal designs primarily in the precious metals of gold, silver, palladium, and platinum. These are often further defined with the addition of texturing, gemstones and other unique lapidary, or resin inlay. I also manufacture photo-etched metal jewelry and etched cover plates that are attached to journals or are framed--wedding invitations, bar and bat mitzvah invitations, baby announcements, and the like. 

In addition to participating in art shows, sales, and doing commission work, I love providing instruction in jewelry design and metal fabrication.  My work can be seen and purchased at galleries and stores, as well as in my own online store.  Designing and fabricating engagement and wedding bands and other jewelry, often with people's stones, is particularly meaningful to me."

-Wendy Jo

Materials & Tools

The $45 materials fee, which is payable upon registration, includes copper, brass and sterling silver sheet metal, sterling silver earwires, various chemicals, and other supplies necessary for the process. 

Students should bring
  • Fine point Sharpie marker
  • A selection of black and white graphic images but many will be available in the class for students to use.
  • Optional: Silver or gold sheet (no thinner than 22g) for roller printing (transferring) etched designs into it.
 

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