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Introduction to Forming
Forming, or the altering / manipulation of metal into voluminous shapes, gives a piece more character, dimension, and adds a new level of visual interest. In this weekly class students will learn to properly use hammers and other forming tools such as "stakes", sinking stumps, and mandrels to efficiently move or shape metal to create volume.
The class will work towards building a solid foundation in metal-forming processes by focusing on bracelets / cuffs and forming a bowl/vessel. Fold-forming and finishing techniques will also be covered. This will be a process / technique driven class where students will gain a greater understanding for how to control the direction and movement of metal (an essential component of metalworking), how to do a "change of direction", how to compress and flatten / smooth, all about hammer textures, and more!
Basic metalsmithing skills are helpful but not required. This course will serve as a superb introduction to several important forming techniques used in metalsmithing.
This class is part of the Metalwerx Course Scholarship Program and a limited number of scholarships are available. Learn more and apply →
Meet the instructor
Diane received her BFA from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, in 1983. She has continued to expand her skills and artistic horizons in her studio in Woburn, Massachusetts, and also in advanced jewelry and silversmithing classes at the DeCordova Museum School in Lincoln, Massachusetts. Diane favorite techniques include fabricating mokume, pave settings, raising, hot twisting, and soldered applique.
Materials & Tools
There is a $30 materials fee for this workshop payable upon registration. The materials kit includes multiple copper sheet metal pieces, saw blades, and other miscellaneous items need for class objectives.
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well fitted work gloves or an old pair of utility gloves
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safety glasses/ear protection metalwerx has some but you may prefer your own
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any forming hammers that you may already have - metalwerx has plenty to share
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closed-toe shoes - required in the Metalwerx classroom