Metal Working Classes in Chicago, IL

Fold forming is a rapid and direct way of achieving 3D forms from a single piece of metal. Watch amazing shapes emerge as you fold, hammer, roll, and unfold metal! Expect to try several fold forming techniques, with resulting forms that can be easily transformed into beautiful earrings, pins, and pendants. Numerous possibilities will be introduced,...

This class is intended for students with previous fabrication experience.  The techniques taught during this course will help you further your creativity and aesthetic judgment when creating your jewelry. Surface treatments explored throughout this session will include:  Powder coating Color pencil Spray paint Patinas Alcohol...

Enhance your jewelry and objects by learning to achieve rich and diverse colorations on metal.  In this hands-on workshop, create a series of color studies on copper and brass using both hot and cold patina processes.  Buried, wrapped, fumed, sprayed, and brushed application methods will be demonstrated. In addition to traditional...

Perfect for the novice and inspiring metalsmith. We will explore the field of contemporary jewelry, and how to create unique, one of kind and/or conceptual pieces. Students will be learning basic fabrication skills such as using a jeweler’s saw, drilling, filing, sanding, polishing, soldering, riveting, basic forming and color on metal techniques. ...

Using a metal folding technique called foldforming create a beautiful pair of leaf earrings! Use silver, brass or copper. Learn hammer texture techniques and how to use a torch. Working step by step with the instructor will guarantee satisfaction and a finished pair of earrings! Polish, patina and wear these one of a kind earrings. ...

Explore some of the uses and techniques behind the equipment in our brand-new Maker Lab,  including Laser Engraving and 3D Printing. Integrate these techniques with traditional methods of fabrication to create your own flat pack light kit. This workshop will allow for time at the end to discuss projects, materials and techniques.

Students will get a serious, comprehensive introduction to the process of fusing glass during this 1 session class. Glass cutting will be taught, glass varieties and COE will be discussed, kiln use will be covered. Students will be shown how to build their own set of dichroic cabochons (1 pair for earrings and 1 larger for pendant) ready to begin firing...

Create and design new work combining metals techniques taught in weekly demonstrations. Use silver, copper and brass in projects that are suggested to challenge and inspire creativity. Research, examine and discuss in class the work of various metal artists. Continue to learn soldering, forging and enameling techniques incorporating new acquired skills....

This hands on, two-day workshop will focus on the fundamentals of  stone setting. Bezel, tube, prong, reverse back setting and flush setting demonstrated. Gem identification and metal selection will be discussed as it relates to specific setting techniques.  Faceted CZs  & cabochon and non-precious metals will be provided...