Silver Casting in Sand & Organics

Expand your jewellery making skills with casting...

Discover the art of sand casting in this hands-on workshop! You'll learn the essential techniques and gain the confidence to start casting your own creations in silver and other metals.

What you'll learn:

• tools and equipment needed, including suitable torches and crucibles

• the best types of materials for casting and compare different set ups

• what objects and materials can be successfully cast

• the process for creating your moulds

• how to master top-pour casting techniques

• metal selection and usage

• how to calculate the right amount of metal and which metals are ideal for different types of casting techniques

• how to prepare and 'season' your crucible

• how to perfect your creations with expert finishing techniques.

This 1-day workshop is presented by myself and guest tutor, Rochelle Gudgeon. Rochelle will lead a small group in the sand casting process, while I will lead another small group in the organics casting. During the sessions you will have access to samples pieces and see full demonstrations for each technique before commencing your own making. At the end you will have spent time in both areas and learnt the tools and equipment required, what you can do using the different approaches and what might be best for you if you want to continue making in your home studio.

By the end of the workshop, you'll walk away with 2-3 completed pieces and the skills to continue your casting journey.

What's provided:

• demonstrations of all techniques covered in the workshop
• 20g of sterling silver granules for your casting projects
• handouts with instructions covering techniques used
• all equipment, tools and consumable materials needed for the casting activities
• access to Michelle's wonderful silversmithing and jewellery making studio for finishing your pieces
• supervision by two tutors - Rochelle and Michelle - for guidance every step of the way.

Workshop Guest Tutor, Rochelle Gudgeon

Rochelle is a maker and creative spirit behind Rochelle Leigh Jewellery. Her designs are inspired by the beautiful places that she holds close to her heart—the beaches, creeks, and hinterlands of the Northern Rivers, NSW. Rochelle uses a variety of techniques, including sand casting, lost wax casting and traditional silversmithing to ensure every piece she crafts is as unique as the person wearing it. Rochelle creates jewellery that’s thoughtful, sustainable, and deeply personal and is excited to share her love of sand casting with you in this workshop.

What to bring

• Pencil and paper or a studio notebook {essential}
• Any scrap metal you have that you would like to use for casting
• Wear closed-in shoes, no loose clothing and tie up long hair
• Bring your own lunch

NB: Students need to be healthy and fit as a degree of hand strength and steadiness are required in silversmithing and jewellery making.

Important information

Once your enrollment is completed you will receive a confirmation email. This email will be your receipt and inform you of the dates, time and venue of your course, it will also let you know of anything you need to bring to class with you.

I will provide a list of suggested projects for you to choose from. You can also create your own project for discussion and scoping of materials. I will offer to buy all metal needed for your projects and set a cost for that in advance. You are also welcome to purchase your own metal.

Please make sure that you give us a valid email address and mobile number as any course changes will be communicated via sms or email.

Students are required to be 15 years old and above at the time of enrollment.

Venue: details provided on enrollment. You will be hosted by Rochelle and Michelle at Michelle's studio near Byron Bay, NSW.