9 November 2024 - 23 November 2024 ( 15 hours, 3 weeks )
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Waterloo Centre
Explore studio casting techniques using delft clay and cuttlefish. Learn how to reproduce found objects, models and hand crafted pieces in silver and finish them to professional pieces of jewellery. Suitable for all levels. Silver costs not included.
This is a practical course where you will learn to create a cuttlefish and a delft clay mould from an object you have brought in. As a group we will assess which models/ objects are most suitable for casting. When the moulds have been made you will melt some silver which you will pour into your mould. As a group we will explore the potential and the limitations of both cuttlefish and delft clay casting. When you have cast your pieces you will finish them by sawing off the sprue and filing them clean. You will then make your cast objects into a piece of jewellery.
The course is suitable for students with experience of metalwork and jewellery making who are keen to develop and to extend their skills. Curiosity and readiness to experiment with tools and materials which may be unfamiliar and challenging to you are an advantage!
The jewellery studio is on the 3rd floor of the main building, there is lift access. This course involves working with hot metals. You need a moderate level of fitness and arm strength to be able to pour the metal. Some chemicals used may be harmful in pregnancy. Please let the tutor know if you are pregnant and they will advise you as to necessary precautions
• The tutor will provide some silver casting grain which you can purchase at cost price. Casting grain is silver which has been specifically alloyed to facilitate melting and pouring.,• If you are a learner with experience, please bring any clean silver scrap that you have accumulated.,•Suitable models for casting - please refer to tutor adviceAll tools needed to take part in the course are available in the workshop. There are some items you will need to purchase yourself such as precious metals. Your tutor will help you assess your metal requirements for each cast piece. The tutor will provide Silver castings grain which you can purchase at cost price. This cost is relative to the size of your piece/s. , Please wear suitable leather footwear.
