Foundations in Metal Clay

This is the first in the series of comprehensive metal clay courses designed for the experienced jeweler with little or no knowledge of metal clay, or for the beginning jewelry student just starting their education in jewelry making. The course is comprised of twelve three hour classes in the theories, and techniques of metal clay jewelry creation. Through teacher demonstration and hands-on experience you will learn many of the techniques Bernadette Denoux has learned, and discovered while working on her own, and through numerous workshops taken over the years. The benefit of taking this course is that you will learn many of those techniques that took her years to collect in a much shorter time because this is the first comprehensive course to be offered. After completing this course you will know enough to work independently, and be comfortable working with metal clay to create your own designs.

Through a series of projects creating pendants, earrings, bracelet components, ring bands, beads and findings you will learn the skills to design, successfully work with metal clay, and how to refine, fire and finish your fine silver jewelry.

Some of the techniques and skills that you will learn are:

Texturing, how to make moulds, textures and templates, the science of metal clay, uses of different forms of metal clay, carving dry, cutting moist clay, proper and successful handling of the clay, stone setting, embedding wire, advantages to metal clay properties, refining prior to firing, finishing and polishing post firing, patinas, repairs, tips and tricks, and much more.

After completing this course you will have the prerequisite skills to take the next course “Beyond Basics in Metal Clay” that will take you through intermediate to advanced techniques all in a complete and comprehensive course of classes.