This course will give you the chance to explore in depth the application of enamel to an altered metal surface. Working mostly with copper, but with the option to also use silver, you will explore methods for patterning and texturing the metal, such as etching, drilling, punching or roll-mill printing. Then you will use sifting techniques to apply the enamel, so that it interacts with and is altered by the underlying surface. You will look at how over-firing and under-firing can increase these effects. You will also experiment with selective application techniques, such as stencilling and adhesive mark-making in relation to the altered surface.

You will be encouraged to experiment and to develop your skills through the production of a series of samples that relate to your personal aesthetic. Construction techniques will be discussed and you will also have the chance to make a simple piece of jewellery.

The tutor will bring a selection of samples, which will help you to appreciate what is possible with the techniques covered on the course.

Included

The course fee includes the cost of some materials shared amongst the group, including some small squares of copper and materials required for the specific project set by the tutor or shared by the group, including enamels. Large work in size and quantity may be charged extra.

What students need to bring

• If you would like to work with silver, you will need to provide this; 0.8mm is recommended.
• A notebook, a pen and a camera, if you have one, to record your samples
• The tutor would also recommend that you bring an apron and enclosed toe footwear (essential).
• Please bring the following only if you already have them: (The tutor will provide equipment for the workshop so please don’t buy anything specially.)
• Small and medium soft paintbrushes
• Fine steel tweezers
• Small sharp scissors
• Black and white opaque sifting enamels
• Sieves 80, 100 and 200 mesh
• Small kiln supports and trivets
• Small palette knife
• Silver and gold foils
• Klyrefire
• Decorative rubber stamps

Available to buy

Available from shop: 0.8mm copper sheet and 1.0mm copper sheet For any materials you need to purchase from the shop, we suggest you do so during the first morning of your course, after having discussed with your tutor.

Additional information

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

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included)
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential

Daily timetable
Course teaching 9.15am - 5pm (lunch included)
Dinner: from 6.30pm (included for residential students)
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 (lunch included)
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

Terms & Conditions