Beginning Silversmithing Class

A Silversmithing Slideshow   Larger show

Did you know that American Southwest silversmithing is a classic American art form that you can learn in only a weekend? It is and you can! This is a two day beginning silversmithing 12 hour class where you will learn how to make a sterling silver pendant. You will discover how to solder a bezel, set a cabochon, decorate your project with embellishments that you create. Then you will polish the finished piece to a lustrous sparkle.

You will learn the techniques that the Native American Indians have used successfully for over a hundred years. The technique allows you to use an inexpensive propane torch and a minimum of tools, many of which you may already have. Wouldn't it be great to be able to say "I made them" about pendants similar to these? The techniques you learn in this class are also used in many other types and styles of silversmithing.

You will create an embellished pendant like one of these and a pair of earrings if time permits. 

   
 Silver Pendant Designs Slideshow

In this class you will select a pendant design, chose a stone, make a bezel, solder it, set the stone, embellish it and polish it.

Your class includes all the supplies needed to complete your first jewelry project:
	a cabochon stone;
	sterling silver wire;
	fine silver sheet;
	embellishment findings;
	tools to use in class; you don't need to bring your own;
	instructions handout;
	tools handout; and
	a DVD of this beginning silversmithing class that includes a slideshow of soldering process and an e-Book of jewelry selling techniques; and links to shows and expos to sell your jewelry.
The beginning silversmithing you will learn:
	the basics of silversmithing and jewelry making;
	how to solder sterling and fine silver;
	the differences in easy, medium and hard solder;
	how an inexpensive torch (less than $60.00) will help you make sellable jewelry worth thousands of dollars;
	how and why to use spray on flux;
	how to use flux as indicator to start soldering;
	the purpose of flux and how it prepares the metal;
	when to use sheet, strip, wire and paste solders;
	why a more expensive torch may make it easier and faster to create your masterpieces;
	why it is less profitable to do repairs;
	why it is less profitable when you use a jeweler’s saw;
	why NOT to use rouges;
	why “fire coat” or “fire scale” when you are soldering is irrelevant;
	how to make exceptional bezels the fast and easy way;
	why serrated bezels are best and easiest to use;
	how to make embellishments and attach embellishments;
	the secret of how to avoid returns for polishing;
We will also:
	discuss what types of silver jewelry are the easiest to make and sell;
	discuss some of the methods for selling your silver jewelry;
	review the tools and materials needed to be a artisan in southwestern-style silver jewelry;
	review the metallurgical reasons of how solder flows and combines to make seamless joints;
Frequently asked questions and terms and conditions.

Your Instructor:
David Smith, a metal worker with over 30 years experience, has been selling jewelry and providing jewelry creation instruction for the past 7 years. David is also a member of the Society of American Silversmiths.

" I will teach you the basics of creating stunning silver jewelry and get you started on the road to becoming a profitable Silversmith"  David Smith

Cost: $295.00
This class is 12 hours over 2 consecutive days
Class size is limited to 11 students.

Don't miss it!  …..  Sign up here today!