Will it Pour?

Fabricate a pouring vessel such as a teapot, oilcan, cup, creamer, watering can, etc. Constructing vessels is a faster way to start than using only traditional raising (hammering) techniques.  Additionally, when a hollow form is constructed using tabs, the soldered seams are much stronger and the form can then be manipulated and decorated with hammers to add character! This workshop will be a study in the fabrication and utilization of three forms; tabbed cylinder, truncated cone and a long hollow taper. These forms, once constructed will be combined to form a pouring vessel.  

Not only will students learn to create strong, hollow forms, but they will also get practice and learn tricks to successfully solder larger parts together and be able to work more comfortably with one or two torches!

Techniques demonstrated include:

• construction of a tab seamed cylinder
• fabrication of a short, broad based cone
• fabrication of a long narrow hollow taper
• wire binding
• larger than jewelry scale silver braising
• stake forming
• air forming
• planishing
• tinning

Participants will be able to use these techniques to create a water tight pouring vessel made of copper (and sweat!).  Depending on the complexity of individual designs, some participants may require additional work time.  To support the completion of student projects, additional work time will be available after the first two evenings of class until 7 PM.

This project is intended for students of metalsmithing, hobbyists and makers of things who wish to explore the art of hollow form fabrication.  Prospective participants should understand torch use (soldering and annealing) basic shop equipment (jeweler’s saw, flex shaft, drill press) and be physically capable of light hammering.

Please note: The images shown are more complex that what students will create at class.  Peter loves to create conceptual teapots in his own studio practice - and we love them!