Decorative wrought iron has a rich history of usage spanning centuries. In this class, we will translate these centuries old blacksmithing techniques into silversmithing, as students learn how to utilize this language of ornamentation within the jewelry medium.

Led by expert chain maille jeweler, Karen Karon, our chain maille workshops teach students how to transform classic patterns of connected jump rings into striking pieces of jewelry. This workshop will focus on how to construct a bracelet and set of earrings using the Sense of Humor weave (by Stephen Hoffman); a Staggered Sheet weave that's silky, slinky, and behaves like fabric. 

In this course students will use a quick forming technique known as scoring and bending to explore how to build more complex three dimensional forms; this process allows metal to be folded like paper into hard edged geometric shapes, creating volume without the use of hammers and stakes. This course is ideal for students looking to perfect their fabrication skills or create complex geometric forms.

Study the classic art of pearl knotting from an expert in the pearl trade. This workshop will begin with an overview of pearl types and shapes, how to buy a good strand, spotting fakes, and proper care. Demonstrations on knotting and termination methods for a variety of closures will follow.

Quilling is an ancient technique traditionally using strips of rolled paper formed into varying shapes and then joined together to create volume or form. In this class, student will use strips of Art Clay fine silver paper type to create their shapes. These forms will then be attached in varying degrees to form pieces of jewelry which, when fired in a kiln, become filigree-like works of art in fine silver.

Learn how to master the hand file and add embellishments to your work through decorative filing techniques. Students will explore this deceptively simple tool in depth and will learn about the various types of files out there, their applications, and how to get the most out of their function. Add another notch onto your hand skills repertoire though this unique one-day skill builder workshop. 

Learn the art of photo-etching brass, copper, and silver by taking a printed image and transforming it into a permanently etched pattern on sheet metal. This course will first teach students how to transfer imagery onto a sheet of metal and then how to use both an acid bath and an electrolytic set-up to eat away the exposed metal, recreating the pattern on the metal's surface.

Learn a quick and easy way to make textured bangle bracelets! This course will focus on forming a stack of embellished bangles utilizing copper and sterling silver. Students will texture and forge their metal into different shapes and patterns using numerous metalsmithing hammers.

Turn those cherished pebbles and pieces of sea glass in your collection into eye-catching jewelry that will conjure memories of a special day at the beach or calming walk through the woods. Learn how to safely drill, accent, and add findings to those unique treasures you've collected over the years! 

This workshop is a perfect introduction to many of the basics in jewelry making!  Learn the fundamentals of sawing, filing, annealing, forming, and polishing -- finishing up the day with at two unique, textured cuff bracelets you can wear home. 

Add color and style to your jewelry with resin inlay! This fascinating process will allow students to expand their color palette and design repertoire without the use of a kiln. Students will be taken step-by-step through this procedure, beginning with color experimentation, pouring and curing the resin, as well as putting a final finish on a completed piece of jewelry. 

This one-day workshop shows students of any skill level how to make a series of silver, stackable rings. Gain basic soldering, stone setting, texturing, and stamping knowledge and enhance each band for a one-of-a-kind look.

Put your soldering struggles behind you with a set of troubleshooting tips aimed at helping you take charge of the torch. Learn how to implement these new skills and even how to properly manage your own soldering setup, in this one-day workshop which cover basic to advanced soldering fundamentals. 

Study the classic art of pearl knotting from an expert in the pearl trade. This workshop will begin with an overview of pearl types and shapes, how to buy a good strand, spotting fakes, and proper care. Demonstrations on knotting and termination methods for a variety of closures will follow.

In this one-day workshop students will create a ring with a free spinning, kinetic element in the center. This project will teach tight tolerance fabrication techniques, selective soldering strategies, decorative surface treatment considerations, and proper polishing protocols. Students can expect to walk away with a finished ring and knowledge for future projects.