Beginning Metalsmithing Weekend Session (Metals 1 & 2): March 8 & 9

Enter the world of metalsmithing jewelry with our Beginning Metalsmithing Intensive class, which is essentially our Metals 1 and 2 classes combined. This introductory weekend workshop gives you the foundational skills of metalsmithing jewelry which includes sawing, texturing metal, soldering, creating custom bezels, stone setting, patina options, and polishing. 

A the end of the weekend you will have completed 7 mm wide sterling silver ring, in your own custom size, texture, and finish with a custom bezel-set gemstone (we have a selection of stones for you to choose from).

We Will Cover:

Day 1:

• Studio safety and ergonomics
• Sawing techniques
• Hammer texturing and stamping
• Filing and sanding
• Ring sizing
• Basics of soldering
• Texturing metal with a rolling mill and hammers
• How to use a flex-shaft
• How to create a comfort-fit ring
• Polishing

Day 2:

• Bezel sizing and fitting
  
• Bezel soldering
• Sweat soldering
• Stone setting in a custom bezel
• Patina options and finish work

Details:

• Saturday and Sunday, March 8 & 9 from 10:00-5:30 each day. You must be able to attend both days as no makeups will be given.
• 14 contact hours (7 hours each day), ages 14+ located at the Silver Peak Studio Classroom 100.5 E. Cleveland, Lafayette 80026
• # students: 3 minimum, 6 maximum
• Tools are provided
• Materials fee: There is a base fee of $10 which covers studio materials. Additional cost is the silver, and will depend on the amount of silver used and will be weighed at $2/gram. You may also bring your own cabochon and we will have ones for sale starting at $10. You may bring your own sterling silver ring band or purchase one from the school for $25.   Materials fee will be due by the end of class via cash, check, or Venmo.  
• Prerequisite: none

The last day to cancel your reservation for a refund or transfer ($25 transfer fee) is February 21, 2025.

By registering for a class at Silver Peak Studio, you agree to our cancellation policy, dress code for class, and studio rules.

About the instructor, Alec Schweiger

Alec has an MFA with an emphasis in Metals and Jewelry from Colorado State University-Fort Collins, and has been teaching metalsmithing at the collegiate level (CSU) since 2019.  He received a work study scholarship to the Penland School of Craft to study under Kim Cridler, as well as learning from Navajo Silversmithing masters Allison and Trent Lee.