Complex Chains with Sarah Loch-Test

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In this comprehensive workshop, join Sarah Loch-Test in an exploration of one of a kind chains using a variety of metalsmithing techniques. Students will learn how to make chains with complex link shapes, mitered joints and hinging elements. Sarah will talk about how chains work, how to design and create personalized chains that function well, and also how a chain can relate and enhance the rest of a piece by reinforcing design elements or be the main attraction. Students can expect to complete several samples of various chain styles and lengths.
 

Techniques covered include:

  • Chain design principles
  • Layout and prototyping links
  • Precision soldering skills
  • Hinged joints in chains
  • Fabricating mitered and angled joints
  • Fabrication techniques for complex link elements
  • Jump ring creation- round and custom shapes
  • Finishing tips and tricks for chains

 

Read what students have to say about our online classes on the testimonials page.

Recordings of this class are available for 30 days from the final class session.

A kit of materials is included with this class and will be mailed to you.


Tools for this Class

This is a list of tools you’ll need to practice the techniques shown in class. A list of tools with recommended suppliers for the best prices will be sent to you after registration If you have questions about the tool list, please contact us.

  • Soldering set-up: soldering surface, pickle, flux, pick
  • Torch- acetylene/air, fuel/oxygen
  • Bench pin 
  • Saw frame 
  • 2/0 or 4/0 saw blades
  • Miter Jig 
  • Needle file set of 6 
  • Half round hand file 
  • Scriber
  • Ruler
  • Dividers 
  • Chain nose pliers 
  • Round nose pliers
  • Parallel jaw pliers 
  • Wire cutters 
  • Steel bench block 
  • Chasing or riveting hammer 
  • Rawhide or plastic mallet 
  • Tube cutting jig 
  • Sanding/polishing bits 
  • Sand paper assortment 240, 320, 400, 600
  • Permanent marker
  • Paper, pencil or pen
  • Masking tape
  • Silver solder: hard, medium and easy at least 1 ft each
  • Any pieces you would like to make a chain for

A computer, phone or tablet to use the free Zoom app for class

 

Prerequisites:

Basic fabrication and soldering skills required. Jewelry 1 or equivalent experience. 

Instructor:

Sarah Loch-Test (Guest)

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.