Silversmithing – make a silver pickle fork with Abigail Brown

Ref: S1D37775

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About this course

Experience hand forging sterling silver using hammers. One piece of metal is transformed from a rectangle sheet into a fork, with a handle that is long and thin or short and fat. Take control of the metal and produce a silver fork, a unique special gift, a family heirloom.

Course Description

During this one-day course, you will have the opportunity to sample hammering skills for silversmithing.

Learn methods for creating and finishing a fork from sheet metal using techniques such as forging, shaping, planishing and texturing.

You will gain experience of hand forging sterling silver using hammers. One piece of metal is transformed from a rectangle into a spoon/fork with a handle that could be long and thin or short and fat, twisted or curled according to your own design.

You will receive instruction and support in a friendly and creative atmosphere, and techniques are taught through practical demonstrations, with the emphasis on encouraging you to have a go and to develop your skills.

Please note: Hammering metal all day requires a level of physical fitness and strength in your arms.

Course Materials

Included

On this course, the college will supply all materials, including silver. Please note that if there is a dramatic change in the price of silver, there may be an extra charge (or refund if the price goes down).

What students need to bring

  • An apron or overall
  • Sensible footwear
  • Notebook/ sketchbook and pen

Available to buy

Available from shop:

  • General art materials
  • Silver sheet and wire
  • Tools

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons/footwear for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

For example: no long loose sleeves or dangly jewellery, and long hair must be tied back to avoid catching in machinery or gas flames. Shoes should not be high heels, ballet pumps, open toes, trainers or flip flops. Shoes should be sturdy and cover the whole foot.

Timetable

Student registration: 9.15am - 9.30am
Course teaching: 9.30am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.30am - 1pm
Lunch break: 1pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm
Teaching finishes: 5pm

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

General Information

Tutors

Abigail Brown, Tutor at West Dean College of Arts and Conservation

Abigail Brown

Abigail Brown has been producing contemporary designs in silverware since graduating from Loughborough University School of Art & Design in 2001. Her work has been exhibited internationally and is widely collected.

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Interested in a career in metalwork?

Our Foundation Degree in Metalwork will enhance your employment prospects, give you the skills to set up as a self-employed craftsperson or allow you to continue to higher education. Encompassing both silversmithing and blacksmithing, you will learn practical skills, material properties, placing your work in a broader context and historic metalworking techniques. Find out more