Laura Ngyou
Laura trained at Middlesex University and the prestigious Bishopsland Workshops in Oxfordshire. Her work is experimental, manipulating metal to create reimagined natural landscapes sympathetic to a gemstone’s individual character.
Ref: SLW36548
Explore the ancient Korean technique of Keum Boo (fusing gold foil to fine silver) and learn to set a round/oval cabochon stone in either a pendant or some earrings. You will develop an awareness of design problems and solutions that arise when fusing gold to fine silver and learn correct planning before embarking on a piece.
You are encouraged to make a pendant or a pair of earrings based on the examples and demonstrations given, or you might just want to spend the course experimenting and making numerous test pieces for use in future projects.
Materials and techniques covered:
You will be shown samples and test pieces made by the tutor, with a talk about the techniques used. The tutor will also demonstrate how a basic bezel setting is made, setting a stone and the process of fusing gold foil onto silver. You will then embark on your own pieces after discussing them with the tutor, so planning can be done properly.
You will mainly be using 999 fine silver with the exception of some findings, such as ear pins/hooks and bails, which may be created from 925 Sterling or 958 Britannia silver wire or sheet.
On this course, the College will supply some of the materials, including 5cm x 8cm (0.7mm thick sheet) 999 fine silver, 1 pack extra thick Keum Boo 24k gold foil, setting cement, saw blades, permanent marker and sundries.
Tools:
West Dean will provide you with a good selection of basic tools, e.g. piercing saw, files, etc. but please bring any of your own tools that you would like to use or think you will need, including spare saw blades, as well as hard, medium and easy solder. Borax will be provided. Please bring your preferred flux if desired. Basic steel and agate burnishers will be provided for Keum Boo, however, if you wish you can also purchase some from here: https://www.metalclay.co.uk/agate-burnisher-economy/
A well-fitting pair of leather work gloves e.g. gardening gloves or old leather driving gloves will come in handy. They are not essential, but we will be working with hot plates when fusing, so they may add to your protection and comfort.
A useful supplier of tools and metals is Cookson Precious Metals, Hatton Garden https://www.cooksongold.com
999 fine silver can be bought from Cooksons and a small amount may also be available from the tutor if you require extra to the amount supplied (5cm x 8cm of 0.7mm thick sheet 999 fine silver will be supplied as part of the course fee).
For findings, 0.8mm, 1mm and 1.2mm wire is useful in 925 sterling silver. Earring scroll backs, clasps and chains for pendants as required. This will need to be purchased in advance and brought along or purchased from the shop.
The shop does not stock gold.
Available from shop: Sterling silver sheet and wire are available from the shop, and Sterling silver to make your bezel settings in a range of thicknesses of 0.5mm, 0.6mm, 0.7mm, 0.8mm - 1mm. For findings, 0.8mm, 1mm and 1.2mm wire in 925 sterling silver Earring scroll backs, clasps and chains for pendants, as required. Textured paper
Available from tutor: The tutor will bring a selection of stones for you to purchase ranging from 50p to £5.
This is a short questionnaire to make your time at West Dean as enjoyable as possible. Please email your answers to [email protected]
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
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
Laura trained at Middlesex University and the prestigious Bishopsland Workshops in Oxfordshire. Her work is experimental, manipulating metal to create reimagined natural landscapes sympathetic to a gemstone’s individual character.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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