Two-Day Reclaimed Metal Workshop
In this two-day workshop we will learn how to reclaim used sterling silver or gold metal and make something from it. This workshop is perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike. My hands-on approach will guide you through all the steps it takes to create a unique piece that you’ll be proud of. All students will walk away wearing their new custom design(s) and a new skill to show off!
Day One:
We will melt down your metal and make it into a sheet and/or wire. I encourage you to bring in your own used metal, but if you need to purchase some of mine, that is fine too. Please let me know in advance of arrival*.
This process involves using a torch to melt the metal down, which is then poured into an ingot. We then use a rolling mill to flatten the ingot mold so that we can make jewelry. If time allows, you can start making a ring with my guidance. Which may allow for extra time on day two for creating a second piece of jewelry.
Day Two:
We will transform your reclaimed metal into something beautiful! Rings are your best bet for time allowance, but we can always play that by ear.
Working With Reclaimed Metal:
Repurposing used metal is something I have been doing for years now, and very passionate about. I will help you understand the process, and teach you my process for working with reclaimed silver and gold. There are a few tricks that are helpful for a smooth rewarding jewelry making process. Helping you give something old a new story.
What to expect:
You will have your own workstation with your own tools. The only place that we share is the soldering and hammering station.
I have room to accommodate six students. There are three flex shafts that are placed between each two students for easy access. You will have the option to use an acetylene torch and/or a butane torch at the soldering station. I have a mini fridge if you want to keep food or drink cool.
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.
The cost of the class includes:
- Twelve hours of instruction
- Bezel wire (fine silver)
- Silver solder
- Stone of your choosing
* Extra costs will apply if you want to purchase additional metal (market value) and if you need more than one stone.
If you have your own stone, please send me pictures of it so I can be sure that it will work for the class.
I will go over everything you need to know about basic metalsmithing:
- bezel setting
- sawing
- soldering
- forming
- oxidizing
- polishing
Schedule:
-
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!).
This workshop is located at my shop in the sweet little town of Walhalla, SC. We are a short walking distance to a coffee shop, 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.