Beginners Silver Metal Clay Rings - jewellery making - ring making in Axminster Devon

Description

In this fun and imaginative class, you'll get the opportunity to create and craft your own solid silver ring using the enchanting medium of silver clay. Metal clay is an amazing material that you use much like a ceramic clay, it contains micro particles of fine recycled silver that when fired turns into solid silver! You can customise the width and texture to match your personal design preferences. Additionally, you'll have the option to decorate it with a fireable stone, silver embellishments, or both. This class is perfect for beginners or anyone interested in learning new skills. It's also ideal for those who find the more physical aspects of traditional silversmithing, like hammering or sawing, challenging, as this process is much gentler. Throughout the session, you'll learn: - The fundamentals of working with silver clay. - How to size a ring correctly considering shrinkage rates of specific clays used. - Methods for refining, firing, and polishing your finished piece. - How to make a decorative focal point for the ring using either a stone and/or embellishments. - Tips on caring for and maintaining your clay materials. - Various techniques for texturing, cutting, shaping and connecting the clay. - How to use patina.

What's included in the price?

* Use of tools and materials. * Metal clay (with the option of purchasing more if you choose). * Fireable stones in different colours. * Tea & coffee & biscuits! What you'll take home: * Your very own metal clay ring (it may need to fired in the studio to give it the best strength ready for collection within a few days). * The fundamental skills you can use to make metal clay pieces at home. What should you bring? * It would be great if you could bring your own apron or wear old clothing to protect you from any stray clay dust or mess! * You may also fancy popping into the Farm Shop or Café afterwards! A card machine will be available for additional purchases.

Cancellation policy

Medium - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 4 weeks before the course starts

Maker

Elsilver Studio

with Craft Courses since 2025

Message the tutor

Hi, I’m Elsa, the heart and hands behind Elsilver! My journey into jewellery making began over 18 years ago when I took an evening silversmithing class. What started as a creative hobby in my West London flat—crafting jewellery on my beloved roll-top desk—soon turned into something more when people began wanting to wear my designs. Fast forward to today, and I’m now living and working in the beautiful coastal town of Lyme Regis, Dorset, where I’ve been running my own jewellery business since 2013. In 2017, I completed my Metal Clay Diploma with Lisa Cain at the Mid Cornwall School of Jewellery, and it completely transformed the way I create. I fell in love with this incredible medium, and I’m passionate about sharing its endless possibilities with others. For the past two years, I’ve been teaching traditional silversmithing, but I now specialise in metal clay, incorporating elements of silversmithing. I also teach metal embossing, using thin gauge metals to draw in designs which is so relaxing and rewarding! Metal stamping is also a passion of mine, where I use metal punches to impress designs and lettering into both precious metals and alternative materials like pewter and copper. I can travel across most of Dorset, East Devon, and parts of Somerset. I love what I do, and I can’t wait to share it with you!