DSMA Workshops with no Prerequisites

DSMA Workshops with no Prerequisites

Chainmaille 1 Instructor: Tori Rushing In this workshop, instructor Tori Rushing will introduce students to the amazing world of Chainmaille. Over the course of eight hours, students will acquire many of the basic skills needed for Chainmaille assembly. We focus on learning which tools to use (including how to prepare and correctly use these tools) to properly manipulate jump rings, then will move on to weaving two fundamental Chainmaille patterns. Students will produce two relatively easy bracelets from pre-made jump rings. The first project will help students get comfortable handling tools and opening and closing jump rings without leaving marks or gaps. The second project will introduce students to the wonderful opportunities of the traditional European 4 in 1 flat-weave. Join us for a fun-filled day, and begin your journey into the fascinating realm of Chainmaille jewelry!

Chainmaille 2 Instructor: Tori Rushing In this second Chainmaille workshop, instructor Tori Rushing will show students how to make Chainmaille from scratch! During the eight hour day, students will learn how to make their own jump rings from 16 gauge Sterling round wire. Emphasis will be on the proper way to make and cut the coils so the rings will be as uniform as possible. Making your own rings is by far the most cost effective way to go! Once you master this skill, your metal choices are practically endless. Students will be coiling two specific sizes of jump rings in order to produce a Helm chain bracelet by the end of the workshop. This weave is beautiful, as well as being sturdy, and has a decidedly Celtic feel to it. We will be utilizing several Pepe Jump Ring Makers over the course of the day to wind the wire into coils, then will use a jeweler s saw frame to cut and prepare the rings for weaving. Once the basic pattern has been established, we will also go over options for speed-weaving this chain. Although there is not a prerequisite for this workshop, Chainmaille 1 would be highly beneficial, if it fits into your schedule! Join us for a fast-paced day, and continue (or begin) your journey into the fascinating realm of Chainmaille jewelry!

Copper Clay Instructor: Darlene Armstrong In this 8 hour workshop, Darlene will be teaching the ways to use Prometheus Copper clay. Darlene has found that this copper clay is the most reliable clay on the market so far for predictable results. This copper clay can be fired 4 different ways, including with a butane torch. With this new type of clay it is not necessary to fire it in the stainless steel container with carbon, although you can if you want to. This clay shines up beautifully in a tumbler and by hand. Come and find out for yourself what you can do with this new type of COPPER CLAY!!

Creative Design Instructor: Travis Ogden In this student requested 9 hour workshop, renowned instructor Travis Ogden will walk students through navigating creative design options by using specific exercises to make each point. With instructor s guidance, students will explore many basic techniques to gain a deeper understanding of how to see design in everyday objects and occurrences, along with specific exercises that will enhance each student s design potential in general. Travis will share his inspiration, personal stories and creative ideas. He will also address his personal sense of design, addressing the what if of creative design to further examine effective design strategies. Categories will include: Paper, Environment and Work. Themes, perspective, perception, rhythms, concepts, architecture, and patterns will also be investigated as they relate to design options.

Dichroic Glass 1 Instructor: Darlene Armstrong Darlene has over 27 years experience as a Metalsmith and 7 years previous to that as a Beader. She has been making and experimenting with Dichroic Glass for over 12 years and has been featured in Glass Artist Magazine. In this eight hour workshop, Darlene will help students learn and practice the cutting of this spectacular glass, along with exploring the different ways the glass can be arranged and stacked in order to obtain several exciting styles. A kiln will be used to fuse 4-5 styles of glass, time permitting. History and details about Dichroic glass will be discussed and students will receive a comprehensive handout to facilitate success at home. Students can expect to take home 8-12 finished glass pieces.

Enamel on Copper (etched, textured or plain) Instructor: Darlene Armstrong Prerequisite: Must be proficient in sawing out metal and drilling holes with a flexshaft This 2 day workshop is especially designed to give the student the opportunity to explore enameling on copper as a means to design and produce color filled, lower cost jewelry that is FUN to make and easy to sell. This is an easy, inexpensive way to make unique colorful jewelry pieces and parts. Three enameling techniques will be taught-wet packing, sgriffito and a simple cloisonné piece. Students will also get to play with using glass beads of different kinds, stringers, metal foils, opal lumps and more. This workshop will give students the ability of making one-of-a-kind designs with a distinct and desirable look. Students who have taken the etching on copper and brass workshop can bring their pieces to enamel. The wet packing technique is wonderful for etched copper. Students will cut out shapes, drill holes where appropriate and enamel these as well as enameling on pre-cut/drilled shapes purchased or hand cut out.

Etching on Copper and Brass Instructor: JonAnn Shackford In this unique workshop, instructor JonAnn Shackford will present the specific steps to chemical etching on copper and brass using 2 different methods: 1. Free hand drawing with a special non-toxic Elmer s paint pen: Using the fine tip paint pens offers a way to doodle and Zen-doodle creative designs directly on the clean metal. This is fast and fun. 2. Using PNP paper allows students to use any printed material for etching. JonAnn will show how to clean up your design for optimal transfer using a salt based chemical called Ferric Chloride and how to successfully transfer your image onto your metal. **Your Instructor will demonstrate how to carefully mix the powdered Ferric Chloride in class so students will be safe and understand how to do this at home. **We prefer the powdered Ferric Chloride as it etches faster than pre-mixed. **JonAnn will also demo how to get your etching done faster. Instead of 2 hours there is a way to cut that in half. She will let you in on a secret that etches faster and deeper. Especially good for brass roll printing plates which can be made in this class or etching all the way through. The copper etched pieces can then be used to enamel on or incorporate into other designs. These types of etchings are really good for developing fun jewelry components to use in cold connections/riveting, especially after enameling. This is a very enjoyable workshop and students will learn a variety of ways to enhance their jewelry making skills using these methods. ****Students are asked to bring any design books they may have to class for inspiration and to share with fellow students. Dover design books can be purchased on Amazon.com. and some other design books can be found in local Michael s Craft stores.

Jewelry Marketing 101 Instructor: Darlene Armstrong Lab Fee: $15.00 to instructor at time of class for 56+ handouts In this information packed workshop, Darlene will share her 28+ years of experience with students on the do s and don ts of Jewelry Marketing, giving you business strategies for positive results. This class fast tracks you to the best marketing skills and avenues of sales, and most importantly shows you the best practices to start your business and keep it debt free. Darlene has over 50 handouts on topics including: *Business Vision *Timelines *Inventory *Wholesale *Retail *Consignment info & details *Custom Work * Easy Ways to Boost Your Creativity *Invoices *Terms *Policies *Artists Statements *Artist Bios *Logo Stamps *Photography Tips *Quality Metal Stamping *Sales Tax & License *Pricing made easy *Materials Records *Numbering Systems *Visual Records of Inventory *Display & Packaging Options *How to Approach a Gallery *Writing up Orders *Inspiration *Exchange & Repair Policies *Jewelry Rep s *Websites *Show set up costs *Show Expectations *Recommended Publications *Marketing Resources Come and learn all there is to know about Jewelry Marketing!

Metalsmithing I Instructor: Tori Rushing *This comprehensive metalsmithing class has been carefully designed to introduce the fundamentals of jewelry design and execution. Studio habits, classroom safety, and design elements will be covered in detail. This Metals I class is the beginning of learning specific metalsmithing skills. Subsequent metals classes have been designed to build on each other, step by step, reinforcing what has already been learned as well as introducing new techniques. (See below for more details of Metals II, & III). *Students will learn well over 20 techniques by building a pendant and a pair of earrings: Students will learn how to solder, saw, pierce, hammer, file, sand, buff, anneal metal, roll print, hammer texture, patina, set stones, make templates, stamp, dome, ball up wire, make a bail and a post for the pearl (on the earring) to be attached to, as well as different finishing techniques. Students will receive an in-depth soldering lecture which covers many aspects of soldering, tools, chemicals and STUDIO SAFETY. *Two primary projects, a pendant and a pair of earrings, will be offered, and students should finish both projects during class. In addition, students will have the opportunity to make one dog tag or one key chain charm out of copper. Students will receive a folder of jewelry making info and detailed handouts for both primary projects, with room to add notes and how tos. Students are encouraged to bring a camera (or cell phone) in order to photograph various set ups and directions as the instructor directs. Upon successful completion of this class, students will be awarded a Certificate of Completion for 30 hours class time & will be given a free 4 hour Open Studio card. DSMA provides tool kits for our Metalsmithing I class! There are additional supplies and tools you will need to buy that go along with this kit. This saves you about $75 off buying the entire list.

Pearl or Stone Knotting Instructor: Pat Lucero In this student requested 4 hour workshop, instructor Pat Lucero will teach students the wonders of knotting either pearls or stones (or both together!) to create a different and very classy style of necklace. The possibilities are literally endless! Anything with a hole in it can be knotted for a unique look. If you own any pearls that maybe need to be restrung, bring them and you can do them in this workshop. This type of necklace is easy to make and in this workshop Pat will also show students how to connect the ends using clam shell findings and either a pearl clasp or toggle. This can be a one of a kind way to display a metalsmithed cabochon pendant, as well. The tool list for this workshop is minimal and affordable. Come and enjoy learning a new skill in an encouraging and creative environment and take your jewelry making skills to the next level.

PMC Beginning 2018 Instructor: Darlene Armstrong Students will learn the history and uses of the different types of PMC on the market at present, as well as the different ways these products are used and fired. In this Precious Metal Clay workshop, students will explore best procedures for creating an exciting fold over multi-stoned pendant that is one of a kind. Darlene will walk students through each step of the process, with complete demonstrations, and will be available to help each student as needed. Students will discover secrets to creating a beautiful stone bezel that looks like it has been metalsmithed and how to add other smaller stones as beautiful accents with a minimum of effort and a great look! This class is the building block for student advancement into PMC Rings, PMC Beads, and PMC Advanced workshops. Various finishing techniques and patina options will be discussed. If the student has time she/he will be able to practice these techniques.

Small Bronze Sculpture Instructor: Travis Ogden, but strong hands highly recommended! Class Duration: 40 Hours In this much asked for 5 day workshop, Travis Ogden will be guiding students on developing and building a FREE FORM table top sculpture (or smaller) out of wax that will be cast in bronze. Students will have the opportunity to explore and become familiar with using wax to model into 3D designs of their choice. Proper use of the various tools and manipulation of the wax material will be emphasized. Consideration of construction techniques and aesthetic choices will be ongoing during this exciting workshop. On the final day of the 5 day workshop, time will be spent presenting your finished wax sculpture to a local casting foundry (in Denver) for casting it in bronze. At that time, a representative of the foundry will give students a tour of the casting facility, answer questions, discuss pricing, finishing and patina options and mold making. Students will then leave their wax sculpture at the foundry to be cast in bronze and will pick it up later when the foundry lets you know when it will be ready. Students attending this amazing workshop should complete a wax sculpture ready to be cast during this 5 day period. *Strong hands highly recommended!

Smart Phone Photography Instructor: Dave Burchett Class Limit: 12 In this cutting edge workshop, Dave Burchett will unlock all of the wonderful and exciting aspects of photography made easy and fun using your smart phone. Taking beautiful photos that will look amazing on the web or in publications has never been easier! Take the photo (using the NEW Nimbus Dome) with your smart phone and find out how SUPER easy it is to not only take a great photo, edit it easily (if needed) using FREE apps and get it up on the web, emailed or sent wherever it needs to land- instantly. Dave will demonstrate how fast and easy modern technology has made it to get photos done and up on the web in minutes! Come and find out how professional jewelry photos are literally right at your fingertips! Students are asked to bring their charged up smart phone, phone charger and jewelry or other small objects to practice on in class.

Stone Carving with the Flexshaft Instructor: Travis Ogden Class Limit: 8 In this class, Travis Ogden will be teaching different ways to carve stone with diamond bits and a flexshaft. This workshop will explore, in detail, the techniques involved in the carving of rough rock or already made cabochons. Students will be able to practice these procedures and find out how fun and easy it is to create unique stones to use in jewelry designs. These types of unique carvings make an artist s jewelry stand out. This is the beauty of creating your own style of stone carving. Students will enjoy a day full of new techniques and excitement in discovering the beauty of rock carving with a flexshaft at the bench with Travis Ogden!

Viking Weave (Viking Knit) Instructor: JonAnn Shackford Viking weave is a centuries old technique of weaving and drawing wire. It is an ideal way to create a big, bold look, with less weight and metal cost. JonAnn Shackford has been creating Viking weave designs for over 20 years, and will be teaching a unique flat clock technique that she has created over years of experimentation that produces even smooth weaving with proper ergonomics to avoid hand fatigue. There will be in depth discussion of the nature of working with wire and keeping it tangle free, troubleshooting dropped stitches, kinks, and uneven weaving issues. Weaving with craft wire and why it is not recommended will also be discussed. Students will learn how to create the weave using old school hex wrenches and using the double weave Viking pattern. Other products on the market for creating Viking weave such as the Lazee Daizee will be demonstrated and discussed. Since everyone will weave slightly different, students will be shown how to document their weaving patterns to have a reference for future projects and materials purchase. Different methods to cap the ends of the weave using hand fabricated end caps, precious metal clay cap fabrication, wire caps, and store purchased caps will be discussed, and students will be shown how to create an end cap with wire when no prefabricated option is available, and will also be shown how to metalsmith a basic hook. Those who wish to take Darlene Armstrong s Handmade End Caps class will be shown how to get the right size silver tubing for their woven chain. Depending on weaving speed, students should be able to complete at least one woven bracelet length and possibly start another. Students may wish to purchase extra silver to continue their weaving to necklace length at home.

Wax Carving Instructor: Travis Ogden In this wonderful workshop, instructor Travis Ogden will guide students through the processes of creating custom wax carvings. Travis has been wax carving for over 25+ years and spent years as a goldsmith selling the finished cast pieces he created from his waxes. This workshop is designed to help students learn the art of carving in a removal of wax method. There are other methods of wax carving, but this is the most common style. With this workshop under their belt, students will be well prepared to take the Casting class and get more out of that workshop. If students are not taking the casting class, they can create waxes and have them cast at a local casting house. Travis has information for students on local casting businesses available to do the casting part. Covered in this workshop will be uses of different types of waxes available, wax tools and equipment, as well as carving techniques, and how to professionally finish the wax pieces for excellent casting results. Students will have the option to make either a ring or a pendant. These two articles are the basic forms for carving anything and everything you may wish to create from wax in the future. *For the ring: students will start with a tube of wax to carve, size, shape, add design elements and professional finishing techniques. *For the pendant: students can design their own pendant, fabricate it in the wax, and apply professional finishing techniques. Students will leave the workshop with a clear understanding and practice of the creative opportunities Wax Carving can provide every jewelry artist.

Wire Crochet Necklace Instructor: Pat Lucero In this student requested 4 hour workshop, instructor Pat Lucero will teach students the wonders and elegance of a gorgeous crocheted necklace. This style of jewelry is both delicate, beautiful and versatile. Any smaller stones, beads or glass may be incorporated into each necklace in any order desired. Wire crochet requires patience to learn and a very talented instructor. Pat Lucero has been teaching this technique for quite some time and is adept in transferring this information in an easy to understand manner. Students also will finish the ends with jump rings and a toggle, and should expect to finish a complete necklace during this workshop. Wire crochet can be done in a wide variety of patterns and this particular crochet pattern can easily be used for bracelets as well.

Wire Wrapping 1 Instructor: Tai Salisbury Come learn how to fashion a custom bezel for your cabochon out of only wire! Using square and half round wire, you will create a cage to securely contain and show off your beautiful stones. We will discuss design concepts to enhance the stones, and ways to adapt designs to un-calibrated or asymmetrical stones. No experience necessary! The first project will be a 30x40mm calibrated oval cabochon, and most participants will be able to finish a second project of their choice.

Woven Metal Workshop Instructor: Darlene Armstrong In this fascinating class, students will have the opportunity to learn how to weave a circular metal chain that can vary in thicknesses, that requires no soldering and yet is incredibly sturdy, beautiful and very sellable. Once the technique is mastered, one can work on this style of chain anywhere one might need to wait (such as a doctor's office or hair appointment) and can be also done in the evening in front of the TV. This chain can be made in any metal you choose. Also taught will be how to easily make twisted and double twisted wire (which can be used to make lovely cable chains) and how to weave metal bezel strips to create textured pieces to be used in future jewelry making designs. Students from this class may also benefit from taking the Simple Findings workshop. In the Simple Findings class, students learn how to make a custom finding for this chain (or leather) and rivet the chain into the finding, among many other types of closures and processes.

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