This course aims to introduce you to metal forming by raising, forging and scoring hollow work, flatware or boxes. Those with more experience have the opportunity to develop these skills further. You will learn a range of techniques through demonstration and individual tuition.

This course is primarily focused on box making techniques: forming over a pre-shaped former, scored and formed, assembly of pre-formed sides and press forming. Estimating of materials, the properties of metals, use of necessary tools, use of the gas torch for annealing and soldering and procedures for metal finishing will be covered.

Beginners should be able to accomplish a simple hinged box. Advanced students will develop their skills further.

Materials available to work with are: silver, gilding metal and copper.

Included

The materials used on this course are not included in the course fee. You will need to purchase silver or copper to complete your project.

What students need to bring

• Sketchbook, with a range of possible ideas
• 8" 2nd cut pillar file (may be borrowed from the College)
• 8" 2nd cut ½ round (may be borrowed from the College) -You will need to purchase silver or copper to complete your project. A range of sheet, wire, rod, tube and findings can be purchased from the College Shop or in advance from a supplier.

Please contact the bookings office at: [email protected] to speak to your tutor before starting the course to discuss the project and materials required before purchasing.

Available to buy

Available from shop:

• Silver can be purchased from the College Shop, which stocks a range of sheet, wire, rod, tube and findings. These will be available in set sizes and lengths, suitable for a wide range of projects.
• Tools (some tools are available for hire from the College)
• Pencils and drawing materials
• Piercing saw blades
• Solder

Additional information

Recommended bullion suppliers:

• Argex Ltd
• Metalor Ltd
• Exchange Findings Ltd
• Bloomsteins.

Please note: some bullion suppliers have minimum order levels (e.g. £25). Please ask for your requirements to be checked against this before placing an order.

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals.

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)

Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm

Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

Terms & Conditions