Mokume Gane: Wood Grain Patterns in Metal

Mokume Gane or “wood grain metal”, is a traditional Japanese technique in which two or more different metals are meticulously cleaned, alternately stacked, compressed, and heated to a high temperature. The result is the fusing of all layers into a solid block or “billet”. The billet can be made into sheet metal with a variety of patterns by repeatedly carving through layers and reducing the thickness. Ring stock can be made by twisting a thick piece to rearrange the layers and removing material to reveal a hidden pattern.

Through a series of demonstrations and hands-on practice, participants will learn a western influenced method of making mokume gane by using a digitally controlled electric kiln to fire a copper and silver billet. Techniques demonstrated include fusion & diffusion bonding, seamless ring fabrication, Mokume Gane patterning, as well as various metalsmithing and jewelry techniques (including sawing, forging, and soldering) pertinent to the process. Mokume Gane applications are highly technical in nature - students will need to be familiar with introductory jewelry making skills to be successful. 

If you'd like to see more of Eric's work, please visit his website ericburrisjewelry.com