In this workshop we will explore many different patinas that will work with copper to produce a range of colors and visual textures.  There will be some buried patinas and boiling immersion patina, but most will done using heat and applying chemical solutions with a brush.  Students will get hands on experience, leaving with a range of test tiles they’ve created.

In addition we will talk about gold leafing and everybody will be able to try applying it to a test tile.

Vessel Chasing with Microcrystalline Wax

Using pre-made spun copper vessels this workshop will explore how to embellish the form with designs and textures created using the technique known as chasing. In place of traditional pitch we will be using a microcrystalline wax, one commonly used in bronze casting. During the course of the workshop we will also cover the basics of making ones own chasing tools, and participants will have the opportunity to make some if they wish to. We will also cover how to finish a vessel edge by soldering on a wire rim.

This workshop will be technique and information oriented rather than project oriented, meaning very few participants actually finish a piece during the time we have. However, everyone should get lots of information about the processes. Considerable time will be spent practicing the techniques while working on our pieces, but due to the labor intensive nature of chasing you shouldn’t expect to complete a piece in class.

In this class there will be one spun copper vessel provided as part of the class cost. If more are available they can be purchased for $35 each.

This workshop is open to all skill levels.

That metal WILL do your bidding! Learn the basic methods of manipulating copper and other non-ferrous metals. We will be hammering, coaxing, bending, torching and more hammering. This is an ongoing class where beginners start by learning raising, sinking, planishing and progress through increasingly technical skills usually led by artistic whim. Demonstrations will rotate through the class and new skills will be added each month: Urban Metal provides the tools and the know how. You bring your ideas and a willing spirit. Purchase materials in class or bring your own.

Shaping, sawing, filing, soldering and finishing. Learn basic jewelry making skills in this 6 week class.

All tools required are provided for your use in class. Materials are available for purchase during class.

I love 22K gold! It’s my favorite metal to work in and you’ll know why after attending my Gold and Granulation Week. I’ll teach you how to alloy and understand what’s necessary in high karat gold for great fusing, soldering, and granulation results. We will focus on learning techniques such as granulation, fusing, soldering, construction, bezel settings, and finishing with each student choosing their projects with my input, based on their previous experience level. You may be relieved to know that any skills you have working in silver apply to working in gold; precious metals are far more the same than you may think. Students can also learn how to use 22k gold as a highlight on silver pieces, it’s a great way to stretch your gold budget. High karat gold is the air I breath and I will show you all my tricks for making high karat gold jewelry. You will leave my class with greatly enhanced skills and handmade, one-of-a-kind 22k gold jewelry. What could be better?

Interested in stretching your artistic imagination? This lost wax casting class will provide a changing variety of projects using found objects. Cast leaves, twigs, seeds, found plastic soldiers, dead scorpions and anything else mother nature or humans create that will burn out at 1250 degrees Fahrenheit. Open for beginners to advanced artists.

Cast leaves, twigs, seeds and anything else mother nature creates that will burn out at 1250F degrees Fahrenheit. All findings for pendants, rings, earrings can be added with wax before casting or soldered on at a later date. Most plastics, woods, papers and fabrics burn away at 1250F degrees leaving very interesting textures on your cast jewelry or small sculpture.

$75 per hour, by appointment. For appointment times please email info@urbanmetalstudio.com. Please include your contact info with basic details about your project and goals.