Level: All Skill Levels
Requirements: None
Program: Spring
Status: Closed
Length: 2 Days
Tuition: $ 350
Materials: TBA
Date: April 05, 2008 - April 06, 2008
Time: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Location: Metalwerx

In this two-day cold-connection intro-level workshop, participants will complete two bracelets and a pair of earrings. Bypassing the need for a hot-torch, we will use simple hand-tools to attach gemstone beads on silver wire and set them into a dynamic chain design composed of flush-cut and tumbled silver jump rings. All techniques learned in this class are easy to do at home with a minimal amount of hand tools.

The first day will start by covering the basics of metals, round wire, variety of hand tools, the aspect ratio of the jump rings, and history of the fabled Byzantine chain. You will learn how to use simple hand tools for wrapping wire into coils and hand-cutting jump rings. We will then assemble pre-cut and tumbled 18-gauge sterling silver jump rings into the Byzantine chain. Students will learn to methods to make the chain more decorative by adding sets of beads throughout the piece in a zigzagging pattern (as seen on the cover of Scott's book "Handcrafting Chain and Bead Jewelry"). The class will conclude with a demonstration on forging to make sterling silver S-clasps using a hammer and anvil.

On the second day we will learn to apply a variety of innovative wire to plier bead setting techniques to make flower chain earrings, complete with handcrafted shepherd's hook earring backs and embellished with semi-precious beads. These individual techniques will be developed with repetition in the building and assembling an 8-inch Beaded Flower bracelet, completed with a super-strong magnetic clasp. This class will conclude with the demonstration on handcrafting magnetic clasps.

Some basic chain working knowledge is helpful, but no experience necessary; moderate hand-eye coordination required. Each day you will leave with a bracelet on your wrist and a healthy hobby under your hat. This is a great opportunity to do something fun together with a partner or a young teen! No experience necessary: Ages 14 and up.

Materials & Tools

A materials kit will be available for purchase from the instructor on the first day of class. The cost of this kit is estimated at $150. It includes all the materials necessary to make 2 bracelets (one Sterling and one Argentium) and a pair of earrings. Scott will also bring pliers and other necessary hand tools for students to use during the class.

"Handcrafting Chain and Bead Jewelry" will be available for purchase at the workshop.

Students are welcome to bring their own pliers of preference and their jewelry art to show and tell. To help reduce eyestrain, students may bring their own freestanding light source (with extension cord) and magnification system. Metalwerx has a light at each bench but if students wish, they can bring their own.