Silver Clay Jewellery – Workshop

This course has been specially designed for anyone that wishes to learn how to make pure silver jewellery using metal (silver) clay. This introduction to silver clay is intended for both those who have never used metal clay before and those who have some experience of traditional silver-smithing methods and wish to develop some different techniques to complement their existing skills.

Metal clay is a substance consisting of tiny silver particles held together with an organic binder and water. This renders the silver into a clay-like substance. When the clay is fired (with a gas torch or in a kiln) the binder burns away and you are left with solid silver. This is purer than sterling silver and can be hallmarked.

Whilst learning basic techniques, you'll embark upon a series of small jewellery projects using the skills you have learned. These projects will typically include items such as pendants, earrings, rings and brooches of your own design.

One of the great advantages of working in metal clay is that it's relatively easy to continue working at home after the class without a big investment, as you don’t need many tools or specialist equipment.

Each session will cover a specific area, with examples, and will be followed by a practical mini-brief to enhance your design and practical skills.

• Rolling out the clay to a consistent thickness
• Mould-making
• Texturing and cutting out shapes
• Sanding, polishing and burnishing
• Torch firing and basics of kiln firing
• Use of syringe paste
• Basic stone setting

• To provide you with a fundamental practical understanding of the essential techniques to continue your jewellery making at home
• Encourage and develop your creative potential and confidence
• Widen your understanding and appreciation in the art of jewellery making
• Provide and discuss aspects such as photographing your jewellery pieces and costing your work for sale

• You'll have a comprehensive overview, understanding and hands-on practical experience working with silver clay
• All students with 100% course attendance will be issued with an official AUB Short Course certificate of attendance. To request your certificate get in touch with the course team at shortcourses@aub.ac.uk

This introductory course assumes students possess no previous knowledge and is suitable for beginners, or those with some previous experience who wish to improve their skills. Suitable for budding jewellery makers aged 18+.

Please note, you must be aware that in addition to the course fee there are additional material costs. You'll be expected to pay for all the silver and any additional materials on a pay-as-you-go basis.

The cost per student will vary, depending on the amount of silver used, but as a rough guide, a small charm will cost approximately £6-£10 depending on the size. A medium-sized pendant will cost approximately £20.

Throughout the entire course you may expect to pay on average about £120, though students working to a strict budget would be able to reduce this amount by making mainly smaller pieces