Bench Beads 9:00 - 4:30 Monday Deryn Mentock $145
Student Level: All
Type of Workshop: Project and Process
Prerequisite: None
Bead making is a very old and fascinating craft. Native Americans have used beads for thousands of years for adornment, as well as for trade. Handmade bench beads, or Navajo Pearls, are a staple of Navajo silversmithing. In this class, I’ll show you how to create your own beautiful bench beads, inspired by the Native American way. We’ll start from scratch and cut, shape, file and texture our way through the process. I’ll show you how to use silver solder; then pickle and patina. I’ll also show you how to create an amazing Indian head/buffalo nickel (yes, it’s a real nickel!) button clasp. If time permits, you can string your beads into a gorgeous, Native American inspired showstopper.
Materials Fee:$20 payable to Instructor at class time includes materials and use of tools:
Metal circle punches
Dapping block and punches
Texture hammers
Texture tools
Crimp pliers
Sandpaper
Hole punch pliers
Torches
Fuel
Trays
Pliers
Soldering picks and pins
Flux
Silver solder
Pickle
Patina solution
Paper towels
Circle center finder
Safety glasses
0000 steel wool
Deerskin cord
Sterling crimp tubes
Indian head/buffalo nickel, 1 per student
Copper wire
Use of other tools and suppliesSupply List:
Chain nose jewelry pliers
Round nose jewelry pliers
Flush cutters for wire - example here
Metal file #2
Fine grit foam sanding block
Awl
Jewelry hammer
Small 12 oz rubber dead blow hammer or rawhide mallet
Steel bench block
Bench pillow (or hand towel) for use under bench block
Measuring tape or ruler
28 gauge nickel silver (and/or copper) sheet metal. Please bring enough to make multiple beads. Each bead takes approx.2 ½ square inches of metal.
Battery powered task light (please make sure to bring this)Optional:
20 gauge sterling (or copper) wire, approx. 12 inches
Beads for stringing (see photo for approximate sizes)
Soft Flex beading wire, fine
Texture hammers
Metal circle punch
Dapping block and punchesIf you'd like to place an advance order for supplies & tools for pick up at the on-site store when you arrive at AU, contact: The Occasional Artist - Email your order to: theoccasionalartist@cox.net or call 623-847-2215
Questions? Email Deryn at mocknet@sbcglobal.net
Website: somethingsublime.typepad.com
