Mokume Gane (literally "woodgrain metal") is an ancient Japanese metalworking technique in which layers of non-ferrous metals are fused together using time, heat, and pressure (no solder) to create a billet. After fusing the billet is forged down, then unique patterns are created by deforming and abrading the material. The resulting patterned sheet can be used in many types of jewellery and silversmithing projects, from earrings to box lids. All aspects of the billet-making process will be covered in this class, from billet design, proper cleaning and preparation, to what temperatures and soak times to use for what metals, etc.

Day 1
We will stack and fuse billets using the precise solid-state diffusion bonding method.

Day 2
We will forge and roll the billets down to workable material.

Days 3 & 4
Will introduce patterning techniques, with a focus on traditional Japanese chiseling. Recommended soldering, forming, and finishing techniques will be discussed. Two patination methods will be covered, recipes included.

Using silver in your billet is optional; otherwise it will be composed of copper and brass.

You will leave with detailed handouts to practice and repeat the processes, fused mokume, and your own uniqely patterned mokume sheet (ready to be fashioned into finished work later at your home studio).

This class is best for intermediate jewellers and metalsmiths, however even the quite advanced will benefit from learning the secrets of mokume gane.

Included

On this course the tutor will supply some of the materials including:

• Nuts/bolts for fusing
• Stainless steel foil for wrapping
• Granulated charcoal
• Maroon scotchbrite pads
• Copper sheet, 20mm x 38mm x 1mm, 7 per student
• Brass sheet, 20mm x 38mm x 1mm, 7 per student

On this course the College will supply some of the materials including:

• Simple Green cleaner (1 liter, split into several smaller bottles)
• Distilled water
• Lintless disposable shop towels

What students need to bring

Optional - silver sheet: 75mm x 75mm x .8mm, sterling, fine, or britannia

Available to buy

Available from tutor: Copper/brass Mokume blanks, 2 per student, £60 total Optional: silver/Japanese alloy mokume gane blanks, £70 each

Additional information

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

Arrival day - first date of course
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration  
Student welcome, followed by dinner: 6.45pm (dinner included)
Teaching session: 8pm-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 (lunch included)  
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 - last date of course
Course teaching: 9.15am-3pm (lunch included)  
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.

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