Learn how to make a silver bangle from silver using hammer forming techniques.

On the first evening, you will look at images showing ideas and possibilities of a variety of hammer formed jewellery, followed by a hands-on exploration of what you would like to make. Using plasticine to shape ideas in the round, you will come up with two or more ideas, all the while considering wearability, the making process and visual appeal.

You will also consider the skills needed: cutting, soldering , piercing, tapering , spreading, twisting and finishing.

The first morning begins with re-assessing your ideas before deciding on what length of metal is suitable.

Your tutor will demonstrate processes, taking into consideration what you aim to make and how much making experience you have.

At this point, safety within the different processes will be looked at.

From here on, it's fully hands on and, by the end of the first day, you should be comfortable with what you are doing and have a clear idea of how to complete your piece.

On the final morning, you will continue with your piece, the tutor will assess where you are and discuss how to continue. By lunch time, you should be looking to the final finishing process.

Before the end of the course, you will review your achievements: how close you came to your initial expectations, what you learned in the making, what you could have done better and what you will take away from the course.

Included

The college will provide some of the materials for this project, including medium and hard solder, flux and plasticine per student. Please note that on this course you will need to purchase a length of 6mm silver wire from your tutor that will range in price, approximately £50 – £80 depending on size.

What students need to bring

• Apron
• Any silver working hammers you may have You are welcome to bring along any drawings or images for inspiration. Ear protectors will be supplied for your use during the course.

Available to buy

Available from shop: Silver can be purchased from the College Shop which stocks a range of sheet, wire, rod, tube and findings. These will be available in set sizes and lengths suitable for a wide range of projects. Solder is also available to purchase should you need this.

Available from tutor: You will need to purchase a length of 6mm round silver wire from the tutor – this will range from £50 – £80 approximately depending on size.

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes). Possible equipment restrictions in tutor absence

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential

Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm (lunch included)
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am

Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required

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