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Torch Fired Enameling
This course is currently full. Spaces do occasionally open up so if you would like to be put on the wait list please call our office at 781-891-3854 or email [email protected]
Enamel without a kiln! The ability to fire vitreous enamels with a hand torch enables artists to use exciting colors in their work with equipment they might already have on hand. We will focus on the technique of champlevé as a framework to explore non-traditional color effects in enamel and firing with a hand torch.
In addition to torch firing, we will explore some soldering for enameling. If you have been curious about enameling, but are not sure you can bring the technique into your own studio, this will be a great way to get acquainted with the technique. You can expect a combination of lecture demo time, followed by time to work hands–on with the method or design concept demonstrated.
Students will learn torch firing specific methods of:
- Enamel application
- Layering
- Laminated Champlevé
- Basse Taille
- Enameling on Sterling silver
- Depletion guilding for Sterling silver
- Adding a soldered element to enamel
Meet the instructor
Troy is a creative professional who has worn many hats in the field of metalsmithing. A studio craftsperson since 1991, she went to the CORE program at Penland after completing her BFA in metalsmithing. She arrived in Massachusetts in 2000 to begin the MFA program at UMass – Dartmouth and has resided in Massachusetts ever since.
Her path has taken her to roles in the jewelry industry ranging from polisher, modelmaker, and manufacturing process engineer. She is currently Head of Jewelry Design and Product Development for a division of Swarovski. She is adjunct faculty at Rhode Island College teaching Craft History, a curriculum she developed for UMass Dartmouth where she previously taught for 18 years. Her studio work has been shown Nationally and Internationally
Materials & Tools
The $25 materials fee includes a piece of sterling silver sheet ($15) for the class project as well as use of enamels and other miscellaneous supplies needed for the process ($10).
- Reasonably fire-resistant clothing that you won't mind getting messy
- Something to tie up your hair
- Shoes that cover your feet completely (no sandals, no open toe shoes).
- Safety Glasses
- A dust mask with your name written on it
- Notebook, sketchbook
- Pencils or pens
- Small box, toolbox, container for your treasures
Nice to have but not required: Metalwerx has tools available, but you may have to share.
- Basic metalsmithing hand tools (only if you have them already and prefer to use your own)
- Really junky and/or cheap paint brushes ranging in size from small to teensy
- Sharpie permanent marker
- Images of anything you find interesting or inspiring
- Cotton Rag - an old kitchen towel, hand towel, t-shirt, something like that