Developing creative silversmithing








Programme overview
This course is taught by a professional artist and is a very practical, hands-on course. There will be live demonstrations and recorded demonstrations by your tutor which cover the relevant techniques and design ideas to enable you to create your own unique jewellery.
This course is aimed at Intermediate to Advanced level Jeweller Silversmiths but please ask to speak to the tutor if you are unsure the course is for you.
Learners on the course tend to choose their own specialism which the tutor will support and develop with technical and design advice.
Enamel work is an important part of the course and We will explore some elements of this wonderful art form using Vitreous enamel which is fired in a kiln.
The course will be extremely practical and hands-on. For most classes there will be a short demonstration at the beginning followed by plenty of "making" time for you to develop the technique to your own design ideas. I will be there for support and to give you feedback each week.
We will explore Intermediate/advanced level stone setting techniques so you can design, make and set a stone at a higher level. We will look at forming metal with a planishing press, anticlastic raising and more.
This course will be delivered by a fully qualified Silversmithing tutor with several decades of professional experience within the industry.
Programme content
This is a very practical hands-on course, including:
- technical demonstrations
- video demonstrations
- exploring the work of artists in this field
- drawing inspiration from these artists
- guided practical workbench time with plenty of tutorial time
- health and safety in the workshop
- tips and guidance on developing Intermediate to advanced level skills
- you will learn all about sterling silver, old, copper and brass that are used in the industry
Who this course is for
For Intermediate and advanced level silversmiths. For people with an interest in designing and making their own jewellery or fine product.
Some experience of silversmithing/jewellery making is required. For example, you should be able to solder a basic joint using a small hand held torch.
Experience and knowledge needed
You will need to have a minimum of improver level skills. By this we mean you can anneal correctly and can solder (with confidence and accuracy) a number of complex joints.
Materials and equipment
You will need to pay for all your materials. Your tutor will be able to provide materials to you at cost price or help you order your own. Once the course is underway and you know what you would like to make you might need to buy metal sheet or wire, gemstones or cubic zirconia. Day to day sundries you will need to buy include saw blades, emery paper, solder strips and drill bits. Your tutor will keep a supply of these in class so you can buy these (at cost price) from her or order your own.
We provide the larger equipment you will need to take part in the course.
Assessment
Your tutor will carry out very regular, informal assessments of your work. Feedback will be given to help you develop knowledge and skills to improve your work. You will set your own personal goals, and your tutor will give regular written feedback on those too.
Everyone will receive regular supportive and developmental feedback in written form in the Individual Learner Plan weekly journal.
Accreditation
This is not an accredited course.
Enquire about this course
Complete our enquiry form and a member of our team will contact you.
You can also contact us by telephone on 0191 433 8646 or email to learningandskills@gateshead.gov.uk
Bensham Grove Community Centre
Sidney Grove
Gateshead
NE8 2XD