Instructor: Becky Burt
Dates/Times: Friday, Saturday, Sunday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
May 16, 17 & 18, 2014 (THREE DAY WEEKEND INTENSIVE)

Description: This class teaches and practices basic techniques of joining metals via soldering and fusing. During class we will learn how to use stick, sheet, and paste solder. Student will learn techniques such as sweat soldering, utilizing a pick, creating and attaching bezels to back plates for simple stone setting. Also covered: how to make jump rings and how to use them to make basic chain links and variations. We will also create a termination for the chain in the form of a toggle clasp. Finally, we will talk about basic ring making designs and techniques and methods of adding interest to pieces via stamping/hammer texturing. Students will leave with at least one completed piece of jewelry (as well as lots of parts) by the end of class.

Basic Tool Kit plus: Jewelers saw frame , cabochon stone for setting (at least 8 mm round), Saw blades, hard/medium/ez solder, Curved burnisher, 16 gauge copper or sterling round wire, Bezel rocker, Fine silver bezel (if working with sterling), Solder pick, 22 gauge copper or brass or sterling sheet, Dividers, 18 gauge copper or brass sheet, Sharp nose tweezers,Jewelry pliers (flat, round, and chain nose), Cross lock tweezers

Note: This course involves the use of chemicals as well as fire. Students should wear closed toed shoes and wear old clothes or bring an apron.

Level: Beginning Metalsmithing or similar knowledge
Class Price:
Register before May 2: $235, May 2 - May 15: $265
Materials fee: $20, plus bring your own tools as outlined above or you may rent a toolkit for $15 for the class. Please notify us if renting when registering. Some additional materials will be available for purchase from instructor.
Class Size: Minimum 3, Maximum 8