Jewellery: Tips, Tricks and Tool Making Friday Evening

About this course

The class focuses on making and adapting tools for jewellery work. Participants will construct a retractable scriber and chasing punches, prepare scorpers for engraving and settings, and modify scalpel blades and burrs for specialist uses. Workshop equipment maintenance, including hammers and stakes, is also covered. Teaching combines demonstrations to the group with one-to-one assistance. Discussion, show-and-tell and group critique provide opportunities to share knowledge and examine examples of homemade tools.

What you'll learn

• Construct a dual-purpose retractable scriber
• Make chasing punches for difficult settings
• Set up scorpers for engraving and setting work
• Modify scalpel blades for wax work
• Adapt burrs for micro-burnishing
• Maintain workshop equipment such as hammers and stakes

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners at an intermediate jewellery-making level who have previously studied jewellery making. Participation combines practical tool work with group discussion, show-and-tell and critique, alongside individual guidance. Forming metal requires a moderate level of fitness and arm strength.

• Previous jewellery-making study is expected
• Metal forming requires moderate fitness and arm strength
• The class includes group critique and shared discussion as well as individual help

Before you go

• Bring a Staedtler clutch pencil, apron, small hardback notebook and fine permanent pen.
• Wear suitable footwear.
• Other tools and equipment are available in the workshop, with basic materials such as scalpel material and tool steel provided in reasonable quantities.
• Scorpers and some other items must be purchased separately; scorpers are available to buy from the tutor.
• The studio is on the third floor with lift access.
• Some chemicals used during the course may be harmful in pregnancy. Pregnant learners should inform the tutor so necessary precautions can be advised.