Silversmithing – tealight candle holder with Abigail Brown

Silversmithing

Ref: SLW12323

Beginners/Intermediate £490
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About this course

Learn methods for texturing, forming and soldering silver. This is an ideal introduction to silversmithing for beginners, or a chance for more experienced silversmiths and jewellers to refine their techniques through a project specific class.

Course Description

During this silversmithing for beginners course, you will have the opportunity to make and complete a small sterling silver candle or tealight holder.

Learn methods for creating and finishing forms in sheet metal, using techniques such as: piercing, roll-printing, planishing, soldering and texturing.

You will gain experience of fabricating sterling silver sheet into a candle holder. You will transform the metal into a dished, decorative form, with some texturing through roll printing or hammering, according to your design. You will practise soldering to add a foot and candle holder.

You will learn how to take control of the metal and produce a beautiful silver candle holder, a unique special gift or a family heirloom.

You will receive instruction and support in a friendly and creative atmosphere, and techniques are taught through practical demonstrations, with the emphasis on encouraging you to have a go and develop your skills.

Timetable

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)

Course Materials

Included

  • On this course, the College will supply most of the materials required for the specific project set by the tutor or shared by the group.

What students need to bring

  • Apron
  • Sketchbook and/or technical notebook
  • Camera
  • Inspirational books, images and source materials
  • Texturing materials for roll printing - lace, feathers, dry leaves, fabric (optional)
  • Sensible footwear – no trainers, sandals, ballet pumps
  • Protective eyewear (provided by the College, but please bring if you prefer to use your own)
  • If you have any tools of your own, please bring them with you (and ensure they are marked with your name).

Available to buy

  • Available from shop:
  • Silver is available in a limited variety of forms, sheet, wire and tubing. Please contact the shop in advance for current costs and availabilty.
  • Pens, pencils and drawing materials
  • Solder
  • Saw blades
  • Tools
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Tutors

Abigail Brown

Abigail Brown has been producing contemporary designs in silverware since graduating from Loughborough University School of Art & Design in 2001. Her work has been exhibited internationally and is widely collected.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

Courses of interest

Interested in a career in metalwork?

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

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