Creating findings that combine form with function will add to the uniqueness of your designs. The challenge is in duplicating them! Jayne Redman will show you how by introducing you to the many methods of making tools and jigs she has developed.
This workshop will focus on ways to duplicate three dimensional shapes in wire including linkage systems, ear wires, clasps, and other unique findings. You will make a series of tools that will give you time saving ways of measuring, cutting, connecting and forming sheet and wire accurately in coils, circles, and straight lengths.
Learn how to modify pliers to create perfect wire loops with accurate inside diameters, tapered tube crimps to attach tubular clasps to chain or neck wire coils, notches in handmade ear posts, and specialty forming pliers.
Hard and thermal reactive plastics are perfect for forming tools and jigs that won't mar metal. Some of the tools you will make include a "u" tool for conforming both sides of a shape at once, pushing tools that model metal in various ways, and a fingernail tool that will slide over and under shapes to be bent, and assist in closing loops. Design multiple jigs for single and reverse curve ear wires and linkage systems, and easily duplicate cloisonne wires.
You will gain the knowledge to comfortably modify existing tools and invent tools and jigs of your own design. You will be able to make exact duplicates of your forms and findings, enhancing your craftsmanship and adding appeal to your jewelry.
Techniques taught:
This course is available as a live online class. Please check this page for times and formats available.
Recordings of this class are available for 30 days from the final class session.
A kit of materials needed for this class is $155, and is payable directly to Jayne. The kit includes material for the jigs and tool alteration, as well as other needed supplies.
A handout will be included with the Kit. On the last page of the handout is a list of tools and materials Jayne uses in her work. She will be demonstrating or mentioning many of them.
Tools Required for Online Students
This is a list of tools online students need to practice the techniques shown in class.
A list of tools with links to recommended suppliers for the best prices will be sent to you after registration. If you have questions about the tool list, please contact us.
Read what students have to say about our online classes on the testimonials page.
Students should have previous experience with sawing, filing and using a flex shaft. Any of our basic jewelry classes or the equivalent experience will cover these skills.
If a class is online, or is a combination online and in-person session, all students receive a link to a recording of the class demonstrations. In-person only workshops are not recorded. For staff instructor classes, students have access to the recordings for one year. For guest instructors, access is 30 days.
If a kit is included with the class, online students will have them mailed to them. Kits for in-person students are delivered at the beginning of the first class. More information about the kit is included with the supplies list which is emailed after registration.
International students may be charged an additional amount for shipping, because of the increased cost to ship abroad. Also, shipments to other countries may incur a tariff payable by the student. International students are welcome to contact us re: these costs and options for their materials. Please be sure that the address with your payment is the correct one for shipping.
If this class is offered online, it uses the Zoom app/website. Through Zoom, you’ll be able to see demos and follow instructions, ask questions and interact with your instructor. Zoom is easy to use and free for students to use for class, and works on most devices, like phones (iPhone, Android, etc), tablets (iPads, etc), and computers (Mac or PC).
Your instructor is also available during free Zoom office hours for questions and help.
For classes that include work time, online students work at home or in their studio. All of our recommended tools and the kit materials are chosen to be home studio friendly. Links to preferred vendors are provided in the supplies list sent after registration. Some classes, like our short demo only classes, don't require tools or materials to attend.
There are no requirements regarding COVID at this time.
As always, we clean and disinfect shared tools and benches after each class.
If you have tested positive for COVID, have symptoms that could be COVID, or feel ill, please don't come to class. Contact us for more information.
And now the fine print. Payment in full for class fees is due at the time of registration to reserve your place. We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and PayPal. Checks and cash are accepted only if you register at school. If you mail a check, your registration is not processed until it clears and the class may fill during the wait.
If the workshop is canceled by our school for any reason, all class fees will be refunded, or you can transfer to another class, or you can keep a credit on account with us for future classes or purchases,
Students can cancel, receive a credit or refund, or transfer to another class up to 21 days before a workshop, whether it is online or in person. No cancellations are accepted after the 21-day deadline, however, we will do what we can to try and sell your place to a qualified student. If we can sell your place, you can receive a refund less a $50 cancellation fee, keep a credit on account with us, or apply your fees towards a transfer to another class.
If you can’t make it to class, you may send a participant who has the necessary prerequisites in your place. Please call or email us immediately with any changes in the student participant information. If a class includes an online section, your class will be recorded and you can watch later to make up a class you miss.
Students must be at least 15 years old to attend a class, and students under 18 must have a legal guardian sign our liability waiver form. We have had younger students attend classes, on a case by case basis. If you’re interested in enrolling your child, please call or email us.
If you sign up for a class and fail to have the required prerequisites as listed in the class description, you are still subject to the 21-day cancellation policy, listed above.
Lodging and meals are not included for in person classes.
If you don't come to class, there are no refunds, credits or transfers.