Classes
Though classes are designed for group learning, they are small enough to give individual attention . Beginners can learn to make one or two pieces of metal jewelry in the first 10 weeks. Primarily, we work in sterling or fine silver, copper and brass. Intermediate students receive individual guidance and the freedom to begin designing their own line of artwork. Teenagers, adults and senior citizens are all welcome and enjoy classes. Unless otherwise noted in the description of a class, all classes are designed to teach beginners that have never worked with metals in the past as well as to accommodate beginners and intermediate students returning to further their skills. I am currently teaching group classes at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center in Midtown; there is a maximum of 8 people per class, so you get a lot of individual attention. To view descriptions, fees and to register go to www.Callanwolde.org.
Individual Instruction
and Studio Design
If you are a Callanwolde student, I
encourage you to stay at Callanwolde; classes are small and economical and I
can guarantee I will be available to teach during those scheduled classes;
classes at Callanwolde run about $5 per hour- this is less than you would spend
for a dinner for two in just an hour.
The
Callanwolde schedule of classes is listed above and at
www.Callanwolde.org.
If you do not know what
project(s) and techniques you would like to learn you can look through the
class projects (there are about 50) to choose.
The first session includes safety instruction and if needed can include
instruction around turning on and off the acetylene tank and learning the
basics of soldering and, etc. Once you have decided on your first project, I
will help you with your design and a metal supply list, then give you the
address of JFF jewelry supply where you will buy your preferred type of metals
(sterling silver, copper, brass, fine silver, gold are the most used metals in
my studio).
Some techniques and
projects are a cabochon stone bezel set bracelet, toggle clasps, jump rings,
ear hooks, prong settings, faceted stone settings (step bezels), piercing
(cutting with a saw frame), hammer texturing, using the rolling mill to
texture, bangles and forged bracelets, cuff bracelets, using the disc cutters,
polishing, making wide and narrow band rings with stone settings, chain making,
basic oxidizing and patinas, small metal sculpture and vessels, hinged
earrings, hinged boxes (or lockets), granulation and fusing, bit soldering,
pick soldering, sweat soldering, folding and forming, hook clasps, 3 styles of
filigree, doming, etc.
Rates
The hourly rate is $35 for
individual instruction and studio time to use the tools without instruction is
$10 an hour.
To aid in comprehension and
memory, I like to combine 1 hour of instruction with 2 hours of studio time, so
that the student can learn the skill, then immediately put it to work. Therefore, classes taught to individuals run
3 hours long and cost around $370 for 6 sessions (usually spread over 6 weeks,
but could be condensed over a shorter period of time depending on your
needs).
$370 includes a lab fee and a
$15 registration fee.
Everything is
included in the price except the metals you choose for your project and any
stones.
Class
Schedule and Location
I am not always available
for individual instruction, as it depends on my busy schedule and I limit the
number of students that I teach individually each quarter so that I have time
to work on my artwork, prepare for shows and have time to fulfill the responsibilities
of owning a business.
Most individual
lessons are taught at 630-930 PM on Tuesdays or Thursdays, however, anytime
that fits both your schedule and mine is possible (such as Tuesday, Thursday or
Friday mornings are sometimes available and sometimes Saturdays and Sundays). We will talk by phone to decide what
days/times work best for both of us. I am located near the Farmer’s Market and
the Avondale Marta station in the Decatur, 30030 area in a safe, quiet arts and
professional building.
When you have
signed up for the class I will send you the physical address and driving
instructions.
Contract
and Policies
If you contact me about individual instruction, I
will send you a sample contract and registration policies. Students must meet at the agreed upon days
and times; there are no make-up classes.
Studio Design
When you’re ready to set up your
own studio, I am available to give consultation, coordination and provide the
labor for set up.
Consultation includes
ideas for proper ventilation of metal fumes from your bench, chemicals and your
pickle pot as well as organization of your room, priority of tools and
equipment to maximize space and time, consideration of aesthetics and making
the room versatile for client meetings, shows, teaching and working based on
your needs.
The rate is $35 per hour for
consultation only.
For a package rate on
consultation, coordination and labor, contact Catherine.
Jewelry Parties, Socials and Small Group Instruction
For small group instruction and jewelry making parties email Cat for more details.
For more information about classes and private instruction contact Cat at Cat@JewelryAndMetalsmithing.com;
For information about classes at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center go to www.Callanwolde.org.