Wax Carving One Day Course

Description

Wax Carving Class Wax carving is a fascinating and intricate art form that involves sculpting and shaping malleable wax into intricate designs and patterns. It is a foundational technique in the world of jewellery making and metal casting. Participants use specialised tools to carve the wax, bring creative visions to life in three-dimensional form, and add gemstones to be 'cast-in-place'. The wax models serve as the basis for creating moulds, which are then used to cast metal, such as silver or gold. Wax carving allows for intricate detailing and precise customisation, making it a versatile and essential skill cherished by craftsmen in the realm of fine jewellery and artistic expression. The fee includes all consumables required, but does not include subsequent metal and casting costs. Learners will be advised on the most cost-effective way to cast their wax sculptures in their metal of choice. Costs for casting range from approximately £15-40 per piece. Learning Outcomes: Participants will learn about the basic principles of wax carving and the subsequent casting process. Students will be introduced to the essential tools and materials used in wax carving, such as different types of wax, carving tools, heating equipment, and safety measures. Participants will learn a range of carving techniques, including subtractive carving, adding details, texturing, incorporating gemstones, and creating intricate patterns using specialised tools. Discover common challenges faced during wax carving and techniques to troubleshoot and refine their designs to achieve the desired results. Understand how to apply finishing touches and polishing methods to bring out the best in the wax-carved piece, preparing it for further processing, such as casting in metal or displaying as a standalone wax sculpture. No prior knowledge of working with wax or silver is needed. An adult must accompany any attending kids of 11 years or over and must pay for a separate ticket.

What's included in the price?

You will have the opportunity make several pieces including rings, pendants, and/or earrings. The fee includes all consumables required, but does not include subsequent metal and casting costs. Learners will be advised on the most cost-effective way to cast their wax sculptures in their metal of choice. Costs for casting range from approximately £15-40 per piece. All materials for this course are supplied. Tools will be provided, but if you have any, feel free to bring your own.

Cancellation policy

Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts

Maker

The Silver Bird

with Craft Courses since 2024

Message the tutor

I am the owner of The Silver Bird, an artisan, handmade jewellery business based in a semi-rural village in Cambridgeshire. I am a member of the Guild of Jewellery Designers, have a Diploma in Fine Jewellery making, and am currently completing a Diploma in Advance Jewellery making with the London Jewellery School. I specialise in bespoke commissions and customisable pieces, as well as teaching traditional jewellery making techniques. I retired from an 18 year career as a secondary DT teacher, over which time I taught hundreds of young people how to design and make novel, beautiful products, by exploring material properties and generating unique forms. During this time, I completed a Masters of Education at Cambridge University, focusing on creative idea generation and development. This gave me a particular passion for biomimicry; using and replicating the nature through product design to make unique textures and forms. I have taught adult silver jewellery making classes in several schools, and have set up my own teaching school in Pampisford, Cambridge. Jewellery making with silver is easily the most addictive thing I have ever done. And that's before we talk about the enchanting world of gemstones! Whether you are into contemporary or classic pieces, you are learning for pleasure, or you want your own career change, I can help you fall in love with the processes and achieve your jewellery-making potential. Contact me for an informal chat if you'd like more information of what I can offer. I look forward to making with you.