Studio Lessons
From my experience of teaching at North Island College and taking numerous courses I’ve learned what works and doesn’t work from both the student and the teacher prospective. See where your imagination and talent can take you in these private, one on one, studio lessons. All lessons are taught individually, and are customized specifically for you. We pick a date that is suitable - evenings, weekends, or daytime - you decide the date and time. You therefore get undivided attention and support. Prices include all materials. Maximum of two students per class, except the Wirework or Viking Knit courses can accomadate up to 6 people.
Lesson and Course details
We all grow by knowledge and discovery and by sharing our skills. Whether you are a casual hobbyist, or an experienced silversmith, there is always opportunity to learn from one another. Perhaps you are blown glass artist or silversmith and need the wirework skills to professionally finish your pieces into earrings and bracelets? Perhaps you are interested in a portable and relatively inexpensive new hobby? Find a course that appeals to you, or contact me for a personalized program. We can customize your studio day to suit your individual needs. Whatever your choice, we are guaranteed to have a lot of fun! All you need to bring is your enthusiasm!
Basic Wirework Components
Discover the basic techniques for fabricating jewellery components such as ear wires, connectors, wrapped beads, clasps, head pins, jump rings and chain. This is a terrific start for discovering wirework, and learning how to create your own beautiful professionally finished jewellery. No experience is necessary, and you will only need three simple hand tools. You will bring home three pairs of sterling silver earrings, a bracelet, and a ring that you will be very proud to show off or give as gift.
Cost: $165
Viking Knit Bracelet
This is a very ancient, but surprisingly simple technique of knitting sterling silver wire into a strong, durable, stunning bracelet. Learn how cast, weave, draw, and add finishing touches to customize a bracelet that will be admired for years.
Length: Approximately 5 hours
Cost: $165
Begin Silversmithing in your Home
Are you fascinated by silversmithing, but are not sure where to start? Wondering if you can afford to set up a studio in your home or garage? Just want to know more about the process to see if it’s right for you before investing in all the equipment? Let’s explore! A studio tour and demonstrations will give you insight into basic silversmithing.
Length: Approximately 4 hours
Cost: $140
In addition to the basic introductory instruction above, you can take this course one step further with hands-on experience. Fabricate a stunning sterling silver ring of your own design to take home with you. All materials needed are included.
Length: Approximately 6 hours
Cost: $170
Designer Earrings Without Soldering
Using metal plate and wire, learn tips and techniques to fabricate designer earrings – without soldering. You will saw, pierce, punch, texturize, file, patina and polish the metal plate into interesting earring components. By combining those pieces with three different styles of sterling silver wire earring hooks, you will create five pairs of exquisite earrings. By choosing the type of metal you work with, either copper or sterling silver, you decide how much your budget can afford.
Length: 10 hours over two days
Cost: using Copper $225 - using Sterling Silver $275
Copper and Silver Fused Jewellery
Using a hand held torch, learn how to fuse sterling silver scraps over copper. Interesting patterns are created in the silver that are later highlighted with patina. In this beginner level course, you get to choose between a pair of earrings or a ring for your project.
Length: Approximately 5 hours
Cost: $125
Matching Rings for Two
You and a partner, family member, or friend, can explore the art of silversmithing, and come home with a matching pair of texturized sterling silver bands. What an interesting way to spend an afternoon together! Perhaps you can make wedding rings for one another? Friendship rings? Mother and daughter rings? Father and son rings? Learn new skills, enjoy some quality time together, and create a treasured keepsake. All material and equipment is provided.
Length: Approximately 5 hours
Cost: $250 for two people
Open Studio
Have a project you need help with? Have a specific fabrication you need help with? I will be there to assist in your creative process, as required. This is completely YOUR time, and you control the direction of the studio instruction.
Cost: $40 per hour, plus materials used
Lesson and Course Information /
Sign Up
Course length is a suggested average time, but rest assured, each student will be allowed sufficient time to complete their project at their pace. A list of materials to bring from home will be supplied upon registration. Complete the registration form below, and we can get started!
Feedback Testimonials from North Island College:
Excellent work on your course this weekend! From the evaluations, I can tell that students really enjoyed it and learned a lot. I hope you had fun too. Congrats!!
Here is a summary of the comments for you.
Enjoyed
Broad scope of techniques
Learned new stuff I did not know before
Getting experience using wire for earrings, rings and bracelets instead of just one piece
Learned some great techniques
Learning various techniques with great examples of where they can be used
Learning the basics to practice later
Professional wire finishing
Other
Really enjoyed the day Karen. Super job. So much information – can’t believe I walked out with so much. Very impressive.
Had fun/thank you.
Great intro Karen and well done for your first class. Looking forward to the Viking Knit class.
Karen is kind and patient
Really appreciated the instructor’s knowledge, clear explanations and demonstrations. She gave me additional help over lunch as I had to leave early. Thank you!
JULIA PETERS | Regional Continuing Education and Training Officer