Jewellery: design lab

About this course

Participants develop their own jewellery projects rather than following set class-wide topics. The course supports independent work on design and making, with guidance to explore techniques and approaches suited to each project. Teaching combines demonstrations, photographic examples and individual advice. Learners may work with metal and other materials while refining techniques including piercing, filing, drilling, annealing, soldering, bending and forming.

What you'll learn

• Assess the working properties of metals and other materials
• Apply a range of jewellery-making techniques to individual projects
• Select and use relevant hand tools and workshop machinery
• Follow appropriate health and safety practices in a jewellery workshop

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for advanced jewellery makers who can work independently and are confident using core techniques with minimal supervision. The advanced level indicates that it is aimed at learners developing beyond fundamental jewellery-making skills.

• Learners develop individual projects rather than taking part in a shared class project
• Participants should have ideas for what they want to make and be prepared to work at their own pace

Before you go

• Most tools and equipment are provided, along with basic quantities of materials including base metals, hard solder, paper, enamel, chemicals and workshop sundries.
• Participants need to buy some items, including saw blades, emery paper, medium and easy solder, precious metals and stones.
• Bring a sketchbook for design work and notes.
• Bring an apron and safety glasses.
• Sensible footwear is required. Sandals, open shoes and small pumps are not permitted in the studio.