Repousse for jewellers

About this course

The course introduces repousse, a metal-forming technique using punches and chasing tools on metal secured in a bed of pitch. Participants explore how a broad-faced hammer and adapted tools can depress and shape metal, develop surface texture and create decorative patterns. Teaching combines practical demonstrations, group discussion, handouts and individual help. The course also covers metal preparation, pitch preparation, piercing, cleaning and finishing, allowing participants to produce completed samples.

What you'll learn

• Prepare pitch and mount metal securely within it
• Use punches, chasing tools and a hammer to form decorative patterns
• Adapt tools for repousse work and create surface texture
• Clean and finish formed metal samples

Is this course right for you?

Complete beginners are welcome, as are jewellery students exploring a new technique. Participation combines demonstrations, practical work and group discussion, with individual help available. Learners should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, use numbers and carry out basic measurements and calculations.

Before you go

• No work outside class is required.
• Learners are encouraged to bring two or three design ideas that can be adapted to the technique.
• Basic tools, equipment and materials, including copper sheet and consumables, are provided.
• Learners who have punches or chasing tools may bring them for advice on adapting their tool kit.
• Learners wishing to work in silver should bring fine or sterling silver sheet approximately 1mm thick; advice is provided in the first session.