Five-Day Intensive Intro to Metalsmithing Workshop
Have you been feeling called to metalsmithing and not quite sure how or where to begin?
Please join me for a five day intensive introductory workshop to metalsmithing. It is perfect for beginners eager to learn and craft their own metal masterpieces.
This hands-on workshop will guide you through key metalsmithing techniques — from design to finishing. Each day we’ll discuss and demonstrate techniques necessary to complete your own hand-forged piece of jewelry.
After each demonstration you will then practice on your own (don’t worry, I’ll be there to help!). We’ll kick-off on day one with learning how to saw with copper sheet, and before you know it, moving on to working with silver. Together we’ll make a ring, earrings and a necklace from sterling silver. You are more than welcome to work on more pieces if time allows.
By the end of this five-day intensive, you’ll have the skills to create a unique hand-forged piece of jewelry plus a whole lot of fun hammered in (hee hee)!
What you will learn from this workshop:
- Bezel setting cabochon stones
- sawing and piercing
- forming, texture and forging
- soldering
- finishing
What you will need to bring to class:
- A way to take notes
- Good attitude
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Reading glasses if you need them
What’s Included in the price of this class:
- All the sterling silver/metal needed to complete your ring, necklace and earrings.
- Cabochons (flat backed stones) for the three projects
- 35 hours of instruction
* Extra costs will apply if you want to purchase additional metal (market value) and if you need extra stones.
Please bring your own mouth/nose protection. I have good ventilation at the soldering station, but when using the flex shafts, you will need either a face mask or respirator.
If you have your own stone, please send me pictures of it so I can be sure that it will work for the class.
Schedule:
A more detailed daily schedule will be shared closer to workshop dates.
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9 am — 5 pm
Expect to take an hour lunch break around noon. Bring your own lunch or hit up one of the local eateries around town. I have a mini fridge if you want to keep food or drink cool.
Workshop Location:
Shop Address: 102 S Catherine Street, Walhalla, SC 29691. The workshop is located on the right of a one-way street. There is plenty of parking on the left side of the street (you can’t miss it!).
My workshop is in the sweet little town of Walhalla, SC. We are a short walking distance to coffee shops, restaurants and food trucks, a brewery and cool places to stay a night or two. We are at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains so if you are an outdoor enthusiast, there is plenty to do and see.
Nearby airports:
- Greenville/Spartanburg International GSP - 1.25 hour drive from the workshop
- Asheville Regional AVL - 1.75 hour drive to workshop (scenic drive!)
- Hartsfield - Jackson Atlanta International ATL - 2.5 hour drive
Accommodations:
There are a few options for Airbnb’s in town. There is camping nearby on the Chattooga River and other great places to call home. Please reach out if you need more info about camping. If you do book an Airbnb, I recommend Walhalla, Mountain Rest, Westminster, Long Creek and Seneca. These are the closest towns to the workshop. There are hotels nearby, just make sure you check drive time to those.
I find this link very useful for lodging, food and things to do in the area: visitoconeesc.com
Cancellation Policy:
If you choose to cancel your spot 30 days or more prior to the class, you will be refunded 75% of the cost of the class. The class is non-refundable within 30 days of the scheduled class, unless I can find someone to fill your spot. You will still only receive 75% of the course fee, even if I can find someone to fill your place. I will refund you 100% if I need to cancel the class or reschedule to a date you can’t make.