£115 per person, two places available.
Spend a day in the studio learning how to create a silver bezel setting for a cabochon gemstone.
On this one day course you will receive step-by-step tuition in classes of no more than 2 people in a friendly, relaxed environment. I will teach you how to measure and shape a setting from fine silver setting strip, and then how to set a round or oval cabochon semi precious gemstone. (A cabochon is a flat backed gemstone, usually with a domed top). You will be able to incorporate this into a unique jewellery piece such as a ring or pendant.
You will make and finish at least one silver setting on this course.
If you are thinking of making a ring for someone else who won't be joining you on the workshop day, please see my article on how to measure your ring size at home.
What is included:
The workshop price includes one semi precious gemstone and up to 10g of silver to use to make your jewellery. Additional silver, if you require it, is available to purchase on the day at £1.50 per gram.
Tea and coffee provided. We will take a break halfway through the day for lunch, which is not included. There is the onsite museum café, the local high street has cafés and bakeries, or you can bring a packed lunch if you prefer.
Workshop time:
10am - 4pm
Location:
This silver jewellery making workshop is held in my cosy studio within the historic Sharpe's Pottery Museum in Swadlincote in South Derbyshire. (The postcode is DE11 9DG). There is limited free parking at the museum and free all day parking in the local town centre car parks. Alexandra Road car park is a two minute walk from the studio (the postcode is DE11 8JL).
Your tutor:
I have been working as a jeweller and silversmith since I graduated from my degree in 2005, and began teaching early on as a means to support my practice, initially teaching an evening class at Hereford College of Art. I found that I love sharing my skills with people, so I wrote two books ('Making Silver Jewellery' and 'Fold Forming for Jewellers and Metalsmiths’) and created my own range of jewellery making courses. I hope that if you join me here in the studio you will fall in love with this special craft just as I did when I first started making jewellery!
Class size:
Due to the small size of the studio, classes are for either one or two people. This means you will have plenty of specialist tuition from me.
Who can attend:
I welcome all levels of ability including complete beginners. However, you will get the most out of this particular course if you have attended one of my other courses or have some prior silversmithing experience. Ideally you would have a bit of experience of how to cut, file, form, solder and polish silver. Anyone is welcome to take part so long as they are aged over 18 (or over 14 if accompanied by an adult).
Health & safety tips:
Please tie long hair back and do not wear open toed shoes or high heels. If you struggle with close vision, please remember to bring your glasses with you, I have found this is easily forgotten. If you do have any concerns which might affect you during the workshop, please do get in touch.
