Intro to Metalsmithing (Metals 1) - Weekday Session May 2 & 9

Enter the world of making metal jewelry with Metals 1: Intro to Metalsmithing. This introductory weekday class gives you the foundational skills of metalsmithing jewelry and is the prerequisite for our more advanced classes. 

This workshop is jam-packed with information to get you introduced to the world of metalsmithing without a huge time commitment! In addition to learning safety procedures, students will learn the fundamentals of metalsmithing and at the end of class will have made a textured 7 mm sterling silver ring band with their choice in size and texture and a copper pendant necklace that is hand-sawn and hand-textured.

We will cover:

• Studio safety and ergonomics
• Sawing techniques
• Hammer texturing and stamping
• Filing and sanding
• Basics of soldering
• Texturing metal with a rolling mill and hammers
  
• How to remove fire-scale
  
• Patina options
• How to use a flex-shaft

Details:

• 8 contact hours, ages 14+ located at the Silver Peak Studio Classroom 100.5 E. Cleveland St. Lafayette 80026
• Two Thursdays May 2 & 9 from 10:00-2:00. You must be able to attend both sessions as no make-ups will be given. 
• # students: 3 minimum, 6 maximum
• Materials fee is $25 which includes metal and studio materials, Intro to Metalsmithing workbook, and use of tools. Due at the beginning of first class via cash, check, or Venmo.
• Each student will work at their own dedicated jeweler's bench. 
• Prerequisite: none

By registering for this workshop, you agree to our cancellation policy, dress code, 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.  

His "why" is described as being an extremely curious person who has always been driven to figure out how things work or how they are made.

Alec has a passion for teaching and is thrilled by the opportunity to share his experiences and skills.

A few of his favorite things are: disc golf, golf, and jamming to vinyl with his wife, Emma, and dog, Micah.