Jewelry & Metals Classes

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Course Description

What does it take to make a ring? Construction of handmade rings will be the focus of this two-day course in metal. Students will be introduced to the basic techniques of working with non-ferrous metals (copper, brass, and silver), basic hand tools, forging, forming, silver-soldering using a torch, surface embellishment, and finishing techniques. In two days, students should expect to walk away with at least two finished projects. NOTE: Bilingual instruction is available. Includes a materials kit for projects covered in class; see *METALS NOTE. Please bring a bag lunch.

Course Description

Learn the fundamental techniques and tools used to create unique jewelry and small metal sculptures as you work through a series of projects focused not only on technique, but also on encouraging individual expression. Techniques covered will include sawing, basic forming, surface textures, silver-soldering, riveting, ring-making, and surface finishes. NOTE: Bilingual instruction is available. Tool kits and some supplies included; see *METALS NOTE and website for a materials list and links to sources.

Course Description

Confidence when soldering is invaluable to metalsmiths and jewelers, and this class will hone that skill through jewelry-scale soldering exercises and practice of fundamental techniques. Students will work through a series of projects focused on applying techniques covered, while also creating unique small metal jewelry forms. Students should expect to complete two to three projects. Tuition includes basic supplies kit and access to studio tools; see *METALS NOTE.

Course Description

This class will focus on learning the fundamentals and basics of Bronzclay™. Students will learn how to roll and shape the clay, use different tools to carve it and add texture, as well as surface finishing while creating one-of-a-kind works in these materials. Kiln use and firing the finished dry clay pieces will be reviewed to provide full understanding of the firing of metal clay. NOTE: Bilingual instruction is available. Students will need to purchase some materials including BronzClay prior to the first class. See *METALS NOTE and website for a materials list and links to sources.

Course Description

Explore this ancient process of casting metal to create unique and individualized jewelry-scale objects in bronze or silver. The class will begin with a basic ring sample to run everyone through the entire process, and then allow for independently focused projects for the remainder of the course. Class demonstrations will depend on the needs of individual projects in addition to the basics: wax model-making, simple casting molds, sprue attachment (or preparing the wax model for casting), wax burn out, and casting the molten metal as well as surface finishing. Students should expect to get through multiple casting sessions with consistent attendance. Materials will be discussed at the first class. See *METALS NOTE.

Course Description

Delight in the bright colors achieved by fusing transparent and opaque enamels to copper. Discover how to create textures and unique shapes to capture the reflections of light. Students will be introduced to a variety of techniques and be encouraged to experiment. Students should expect to complete several jewelry items and decorative accessories. This class will cover a variety of methods for fusing colorful enamel (glass) to copper using a kiln. After learning a few simple techniques, you will be free to explore your favorite. Materials will be discussed at the first class. See *METALS NOTE.

Course Description

For the advanced student wishing to pursue a new or continued topic of metalworking and/or jewelry-making or to create a small body of work. Although projects are self-directed, the instructor will work with each student to assist with design, aesthetic, and/or technical decisions. Prerequisite: Students must contact Jill Sortore at jillian. sortore@utsa.edu for prior approval before registering and should have successfully completed of at least three metals courses or equivalent intermediate metals experience. See *METALS NOTES.

Course Description

Come explore the possibilities of wearable art—jewelry that is well designed and created with intention. This mixed materials class will lead you through making ceramic pieces that are combined with or set in metal to create pendants, earrings, and other wearable pieces. In the first three weeks, Armstrong will provide instructions on handbuilding techniques for forming white porcelain clay components as well as how the clay can be colored with the addition of stains. Colored clay marbling as well as other surface designs techniques like clay slips and glazes will also be covered. The last three weeks will be led by Sortore and will focus on creating basic metal settings and findings to complete your ceramic pieces. Tuition will include 10 pounds of porcelain clay, colored stains for tinting your clay, glaze, copper sheet, use of tools, and equipment. NOTE: Students wishing to work with silver sheet or wire will need to purchase materials on their own as well as any additional findings needed to complete their work; options for these materials will be discussed in class. See *METALS NOTE.