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Saw Frame Exploration: Slot Connections and Stone Setting

This virtual course will delve into the inherent potential of the jeweler’s saw frame. Class will begin with the fundamentals of using this indispensable tool, covering blade selection and tension, grip, bench pin options, body positioning, angle, pressure, and more. Starting with alternative materials students will quickly learn how to work their way to skillfully sawing sheet metal. After covering the basics, the class will shift gears as Erica demonstrates two different project options - tab setting a cabochon, coin, or found object (two ways) and slot connections with built-in tab/prong setting for cabochon or faceted stones.

For more information about virtual courses, visit our Virtual Course FAQ page. 

Please read the Materials & Tools tab! 

Meet the instructor

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Growing up, Erica was always elbow deep in some creative endeavor or another. Before she even knew what being a maker was, she knew she wanted to be one. She had the opportunity to attend the North Carolina School of the Arts where she spent two years. It was during this time that she got her first taste of metal-smithing. Something about the malleability of the metal just enamored her. With her focus set, she received a BFA in Metal Design from East Carolina University. After graduation, Erica began teaching metal-smithing and jewelry fabrication courses at a local community college.

 

 

In 2004 Erica changed gears from teaching to creating and selling contemporary sterling silver jewelry. While they don’t teach you to run a business in art school, Erica stood up to the challenge and created the woman owned and operated business you see today. Her life consists of creative days working in her studio, cherished time with her three children and husband, traveling adventures and quiet moments reflecting on the inspirations found in the smallest of things.

 

 

Materials & Tools

$60 supply kit will be sent to the shipping address you have listed on your Metalwerx account. Kits will be mailed out by April 23rd. If you register after this date, a kit can still be mailed to you, but may not arrive by the workshop start date. Please inform us if you reside outside of the US, as your shipping cost may differ and may  need to be expedited. Kit includes the following items:

  • 1 x hole-punching pliers - 1.25mm
  • 1 x pack sawblades - 3/0 or 4/0
  • 1 x brass brush
  • 2 x 12mm round pyrite cabochon
  • 1 x 25mm x 18mm oval black onyx cabochon
  • 1 x 3" x 3" brass sheet - 22g 
  • cork
  • graham cracker
  • sandpaper strips
  • handouts and sample template
  • shipping
Students should bring

Students will be responsible for providing the following items. Some suggested vendors have been linked for reference (red text).

Hand tools:

Other/miscellaneous items: 

  • apron
  • particulate dust mask
  • safety glasses
  • scissors / x-acto knife
  • rubber cement / glue stick
  • paper / notebook
  • drawing implements - Sharpie, pencil, etc.
 

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