Date & Time: Sunday, June 26, 2022 – 10am-4pm
In this workshop you’ll take your Argentium® skills to the next level by creating a wire filigree pendant or pair of earrings. You’ll discover how to form the outline of your design, then fuse granules and wire shapes to each other within that silhouette, using either a tension technique or some other tricks. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can add bezels and stones to your piece, and we will explore the uses of the clay needed to prevent Argentium®’s notorious tendency to slump. You’ll learn the process of heat-hardening Argentium®, and how to decide when it’s necessary. You’ve already fallen in love with Argentium®, and now it’s time to elevate your fusing skills, so you can create the intricate designs you’ve dreamed up! This is an intermediate class, and experience fusing Argentium® is required. Mask according to your comfort level.
Instructor: Cynthia Topp
Material/kit fees: $15, are payable in cash to the instructor on the first day of class. Students are encouraged to bring a pencil and a sketchbook/notebook and are required to wear closed-toed shoes and be able to tie long hair back for safety. Masking in accordance with current state mandates. Class handout will be provided.
If you want to add a bezel and stone, feel free bring your own stones if you wish. They must have flat backs, i.e., either cabochons or rose-cuts. Please choose stones that have a shorter dimension no shorter than 6mm, and a longer dimension no longer than 18mm. For example, ovals between the sizes of 8x6mm and 18x13mm would work well. (This is approximate, to give you a general sense of the size of piece you will be making). If you have the appropriate width of fine silver bezel wire (not sterling silver), it would be helpful to bring that as well. There will also be a selection of cabochons available to purchase in class, as well as bezel wire.
Prerequisites: All students must be at least 18 years old.
Intermediate skill level – You have taken the beginning jewelry courses and/or are proficient with soldering, sawing, drilling, polishing, rolling mill/roller printing, etc.
Experience fusing Argentium®
Requires a Minimum of 3 participants.
