Silverclay Jewellery Workshop

• Rolling metal clay to a consistent thickness
• Mould-making
• Texturing and cutting shapes
• Sanding, polishing and burnishing
• Torch firing and an introduction to kiln firing
• Using syringe paste
• Basic stone setting
• Basic soldering techniques
• Copper clay usage as a cheaper alternative

• Week 1: Introduction to silverclay. Health and safety, toolkits, demo run through whole creation process of a simple charm. Practise texturing techniques with plasticine.
• Week 2: Design and make a simple cut-out textured charm. Torch firing. Dry, sand, fire, burnish and polish. Tumble polisher.
• Week 3: Explore texture. Design and make a texture mat. Make a mould and use this to make a pendant with simple hole and bail. Demonstration: patina.
• Week 4: Create chosen piece of jewellery using your mould (pendant or small earrings). Create custom bail.
• Week 5: Ring making. Demonstration and practise before making. Calculating size.
• Week 6: Continue with rings, fire and finish. Demonstration: handmade ear wires and other findings.
• Week 7: Stone setting in silverclay (choice of pendant or ring)
• Week 8: Self-directed projects, depending on preferences. Demonstrations: ear posts, how to fix broken pieces.
• Week 9: Continue own work.
• Week 10: Completion of all pieces.

At the end of the course you'll:

• Have a comprehensive overview, understanding and hands-on practical experience working with silverclay
• Have a solid practical foundation in metal clay jewellery techniques
• Have the confidence to continue jewellery making independently at home

Will I be assessed?

No, there's no formal assessment. As the course progresses your tutor will measure your overall performance and offer essential guidance and feedback, so you know how you're getting on.

Age

Suitable for adults aged 18+.

Level

Beginners or anyone with some experience who want to refresh or develop their skills further.

Experience or qualifications required

None – this is an introductory course. We have no formal academic entry requirements for our short courses.

If you'd like to discuss if this course is suitable for you, get in touch with us: academy@aub.ac.uk or 01202 363222.

£389

Any additional costs

Please note that, in addition to the course fee, there are additional material costs. You'll pay for silver clay and any additional materials on a pay-as-you-go basis and will be recommended purchasing a starter pack at £70 prior to the course starting (details supplied by tutor).

Costs will vary depending on the amount of silver clay used. Silver clay is currently £30 for 7g. As a general guide:

• A small charm costs approximately £6–10, depending on size.
• A medium-sized pendant costs approximately £20

Across the full course, you'll typically spend around £150 on materials. Those working to a strict budget can reduce this cost by focusing on smaller pieces.

Resource areas and some tools will be provided by AUB.

• You'll be advised in advance about any materials you need to purchase.
• There's an option to purchase a starter kit for approximately £70 (subject to industry price increases). This pack contains the tools required for this course; however, this can be purchased separately if preferred.