Foundations/Core Class – Block 2

Class run on Thursday mornings for 5 weeks.

Class time is 10:00am to 12:30pm

Thursday 12th March – Thursday 9th April

Tutor: Carolyn Brewer

We welcome all beginners to have a go at Silversmithing, from ages 16 and up. No design or craft skills required, we will teach you all the basics to get you started in making your own unique brooch and layered ring. This class is a prerequisite for the Core classes. You can repeat this class if you choose, or enrole in a Core Class when you have completed Foundations I and Foundations II.

Foundations I

• Introduction to the Workshop – (Chapters 1, 2 and 4 of current Level 1 book)
• Sawing practice, drill press
• Introduction to sweat soldering
• Stacking rings – measuring, pallion soldering
• Filing, sanding, polishing
• Melting silver

Final assignment

Silver stacking ring with stamped (initial or decorative) silver blob attached

Foundations II

• Introduction to the rolling mill
• Stacker ring
• More advanced sweat soldering

Final assignment

Silver stacking ring with stamped (initial or decorative) silver blob attached

Core I

• Making bezel
  • measuring
  • cutting bezel
  • solder backplate
  • filing & sanding
• Making ring
  • measuring
  • soldering bezel to ring
  • setting – agate/steel burnishing

Final assignment

Bezel set ring (stone must be 10mm round cab)

Core II

• Pick soldering – soldering links
• Clasp hook

Final assignment

Final assignment – Chain bracelet or necklace (not just earrings)