This one-day course offers an exciting opportunity to explore the ancient and versatile technique of Delft Clay sand casting, specifically adapted for incorporating gemstones directly into molten metal. This process allows you to create silver pieces with stones ‘cast-in-place,’ resulting in a raw, experimental, and contemporary aesthetic.
The session is ideal for those seeking a fast, tactile approach to jewellery making, where you can transform original items or found objects into unique silver projects in a single day.
Through technical demonstrations and hands-on practice, you will learn how to prepare sand moulds, secure stones for casting, and pour molten metal to capture a unique moment in time. You will learn how to select suitable stones for the cast-in-place method and understand how to prevent heat shock during the process. Finally, you will learn essential finishing techniques, including cleaning and professional polishing, to complete your stone-set designs.
By the end of the day, you will have cast and finished 1 to 2 unique silver projects.
We will supply all the tools and equipment needed for this course.
The course fee includes sterling silver casting grain to the value of £50. However, you are also encouraged to bring your own sterling silver scrap or old jewellery to melt down and recycle.
PLEASE NOTE: THE COST OF SILVER HAS BEEN EXTREMELY VOLATILE, THEREFORE WE MAY HAVE TO CHARGE YOU FOR ADDITIONAL CASTING GRAIN ON THE DAY OF THE COURSE
Models can be made from polymer clay, you may bring your own original items, or choose from a variety of provided found objects and jewellery models to replicate in silver. We will also provide a selection of Cubic Zirconia stones for casting. If you wish to bring your own, please ensure they are suitable for the process.
For health and safety reasons, please wear closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing for a workshop environment.
