I'm a second-generation metalsmith, mentored by my Mom, who, along with my Dad, is a renowned silversmith jeweler designer. My journey began as her apprentice, over 15 years ago. In 2013, I launched my jewelry line, becoming a full-time designer.
I'm passionate about sharing my craft, having taught students of all ages, from schoolchildren
I'm a second-generation metalsmith, mentored by my Mom, who, along with my Dad, is a renowned silversmith jeweler designer. My journey began as her apprentice, over 15 years ago. In 2013, I launched my jewelry line, becoming a full-time designer.
I'm passionate about sharing my craft, having taught students of all ages, from schoolchildren to college-level metalsmithing. My creations have graced galleries, boutiques, and juried fine art shows across the U.S., earning me numerous prestigious awards and grants. I'm excited to pass on my expertise and love for this art to you!
Currently I offer both "Intro to Metalsmithing," and "Fold Forming" classes. Both are comprehensive 4-hour workshop that unveils the captivating world of metalsmithing. Here, you'll gain valuable insights into working with metals and learn essential skills. The skills and tools you gain will translate over to other metals such as sterling
Currently I offer both "Intro to Metalsmithing," and "Fold Forming" classes. Both are comprehensive 4-hour workshop that unveils the captivating world of metalsmithing. Here, you'll gain valuable insights into working with metals and learn essential skills. The skills and tools you gain will translate over to other metals such as sterling silver*, brass, bronze, aluminum, etc.
By the end of the class, you'll proudly take home your own creations—a stunning pendant, a necklace to hang your pendant and a pair of earrings!
NEW CLASS COMING 2025
Want to learn to solder two pieces of metal together? I am currently writing the curriculum and will launch soldering classes in 2025!
Would you like to learn or enhance your skills in metalsmithing, focusing on soldering, cold connections, fold forming, and much more? Private lessons are available with a minimum commitment of 4 one-hour sessions, which can be scheduled separately or all at once based on my availability.
Welcome to "Intro to Metalsmithing," a comprehensive 4-hour workshop that unveils the captivating world of metalsmithing. Here, you'll gain valuable insights into working with metals and learn essential skills. The skills and tools you gain will translate over to other metals such as sterling silver*, brass, bronze, aluminum, etc.
By the end of the class, you'll proudly take home your own creations—a stunning pendant, a necklace to hang your pendant and a pair of earrings!
What you'll learn:
Fundamental knowledge of metals and essential tools
Precision sawing techniques
The art of hammer texturing
Finishing finesse: filing and sanding
Creative texturing of metals
The magic of cold connections
The mesmerizing world of patina if time allows (coloring copper)
Unlocking the potential of a flex-shaft
Tools and Materials:
Rest assured, we provide all the necessary materials: a copper practice sheet, a second copper sheet, copper and sterling wire, a rivet, necklace tips, tools, and safety equipment for a rewarding learning experience.
*3"x2" piece of Sterling Silver sheet can be purchased at checkout so you can create sterling silver jewelry or bi-metal jewelry.
I have crafted a new comprehensive fold forming curriculum for 2024. Specifically, I'm developed a specialized program centered around the art of "Fold Forming." In this class, you'll delve into the intricate world of metals—learning their unique characteristics and how they can be manipulated. You'll have the opportunity to experiment with various techniques, exploring how to create captivating patterns and textures through the art of folding.
Not only will this class provide an introduction to working with the torch, but you'll also gain valuable insights into the process of annealing (softening) metal. Over the duration of the course, you'll have the chance to create stunning pendants and earrings, employing an array of innovative techniques. Moreover, I've made sure to incorporate additional tools, hammers and designs that weren't covered in the "Intro to Metalsmithing" course, ensuring a more comprehensive and enriching experience.
Let's take a peek into this immersive 4-hour class. Students commence with raw materials in hand, including sheet metal, copper wire, cord, sterling wire, and rivets, allowing them to unleash their creativity and craft unique designs from scratch!
In this class, students learn the art of joining two metal pieces using a rivet. They discover the ingenious technique of using a wire to connect these pieces, crafting a dome-shaped connection at the metal's tip with the finesse of a hammer.
In this class, every student gains knowledge in the use of a jeweler's saw. I provide instruction on the crucial skill of changing a saw blade. When you arrive for the class, the saws are without blades, so it's essential to learn how to properly attach them. Plus, you'll acquire the knowledge needed to replace a broken blade should it occur during your creative journey.
In this class, we go beyond the standard methods of punching or cutting shapes. Here, you'll learn the art of precision by learning how to saw out your desired shapes.
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
DATE: (Saturday) Jan 11, 2025
TIME: 1:00pm - 5:30 pm
This Intro to Metalsmithing 4-hour class (with a few breaks) gives you...
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
DATE: (Saturday) Jan 25, 2025
TIME: 1:00pm - 5:30 pm
"Intro to Metalsmithing" would be recommended first for this class or s...
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
DATE: (Tuesday) Feb 11, 2025
TIME: 1:00pm -9:00+ pm
This Intro to Metalsmithing 4-hour class (with a few breaks) gives you t...
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
DATE: (Saturday) Feb 22, 2025
TIME: 1:00pm - 5:30 pm
This Intro to Metalsmithing 4-hour class (with a few breaks) gives you ...
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
DATE: (Saturday) March 11, 2025
TIME: 5:00pm - 9:30 pm
"Intro to Metalsmithing" would be recommended first for this class or...
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
DATE: (Saturday) March 22, 2025
TIME: 1:00pm - 5:30 pm
This Intro to Metalsmithing 4-hour class (with a few breaks) gives y...
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
CONTACT ME WITH QUESTIONS ABOUT PRIVATE LESSONS
Would you like to enhance your skills in metalsmithing, focusing...
Crestwood, KY (East end of Louisville, KY)
Copyright © 2015-2024 Designs By Dawn - All Rights Reserved.