Laura Ngyou
Laura trained at Middlesex University and the prestigious Bishopsland Workshops in Oxfordshire. Her work is experimental, manipulating metal to create reimagined natural landscapes sympathetic to a gemstone’s individual character.
Ref: SLW31950
Explore the ancient Korean technique of Keum Boo (fusing gold foil to fine silver) and learn to set a round/oval cabochon stone in either a pendant or some earrings. You will develop an awareness of design problems and solutions that arise when fusing gold to fine silver and learn correct planning before embarking on a piece.
You are encouraged to make a pendant or a pair of earrings based on the examples and demonstrations given, or you might just want to spend the course experimenting and making numerous test pieces for use in future projects.
Materials and techniques covered:
● Making a simple bezel setting for a cabochon stone using fine silver or gold, and setting the stone
● Surface texturing using various tools and the rolling mill
● Keum Boo - fusing gold foil onto fine silver to create a contrasting surface pattern
You will be shown samples and test pieces made by the tutor, with a talk about the techniques used. The tutor will also demonstrate how a basic bezel setting is made, setting a stone and the process of fusing gold foil onto silver. You will then embark on your own pieces after discussing them with the tutor, so planning can be done properly.
You will mainly be using 999 fine silver with the exception of some findings, such as ear pins/hooks and bails, which may be created from 925 Sterling or 958 Britannia silver wire or sheet.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Laura trained at Middlesex University and the prestigious Bishopsland Workshops in Oxfordshire. Her work is experimental, manipulating metal to create reimagined natural landscapes sympathetic to a gemstone’s individual character.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Places available - Book now
Places available - Book now
Places available - Book now
Our Foundation Degree in Metalwork will enhance your employment prospects, give you the skills to set up as a self-employed craftsperson or allow you to continue to higher education. Encompassing both silversmithing and blacksmithing, you will learn practical skills, material properties, placing your work in a broader context and historic metalworking techniques. Find out more