The Bangle Angle; Essential Elements of Metalsmithing

Friday $120  
  Jen Cushman 9:00-4:00    


Student Level: All
Type of Workshop: Project - Student will take home as many finished bangles as time allows

 

 

    There is something so satisfying about working an ordinary piece of wire into a metalsmithing masterpiece. Create as many open-ended bangles at your pace as class time allows. This is a metalsmithing 101 college course condensed into a one-day class. Learn how to properly anneal, forge, texturize, pickle, patina, rivet and form simple round wire into a wrist-full of organic bangle bracelets. For people with larger or smaller than average hands who can never seem to find the perfect-fitting bangle, this is the class for you!

    Materials fee of $7 payable to Instructor at class time includes: use of instructor's tools, such a flexible shaft, metal letter punches, texturizing hammers, patina, torch and MAPP gas, annealing pans, pickle, etc. Please note most of the supplies for this class must be brought by student in order to create project.

    Supply list:

  • At least 3 feet of 10, 12 or 14 gauge round wire. The gauge choice should be aimed toward student's personal jewelry aesthetic and previous metalsmithing skills. People who like the look of smaller jewelry, for example will want to work with 12 or 14 gauge round wire. Those who prefer more visual weight to their bangles will want to choose a 8 or 10 gauge round wire. Please note that the smaller the gauge, the more hand strength it takes to properly forge and form your metal. If choosing sterling silver, buy dead soft.
  • At least 1 feet each of 20 and 22 gauge round wire in metal of your choice. Does not have to match the metal of your bangles if you enjoy a mixed metals look.
  • Wire can be either Nickel, Brass, Bronze, Copper or Sterling. Choice is up to student's preference and budget.
  • Ball Peen Hammer
  • Round Nose Pliers
  • Flat Nose Pliers
  • Center punch
  • Half round file
  • Metal hole punch if you have it (instructor will have a flex shaft to use, but a personal hole punch will make your project go quicker)
  • Hammer that is either a rubber mallet or rawhide (instructor will have a few extra for use)
  • Steel Bench block and pounding mat or cushion to reduce noise
  • Bracelet forming mandrel if you have one. If not, an inexpensive option is a cut piece of PVC pipe that is approximately as round as your wrist and at least as wide as the bracelet you want to make
  • Texturing hammers if you have them and if you're local
  • Also if you're local and have own a good quality butane torch and annealing pan with pumice stones, you may wish to bring it.

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Questions? Email Jen at jencushman@ymail.com
Website: jencushman.com