Angus McFadyen
Angus is a silversmith and engraver. He has work in the Goldsmiths' company collection and the V&A. He is currently chair of the Hand Engravers Association and a member of Contemporary British Silversmiths.
Ref: SLW38293
Using the simplest hand engraving tools, learn how to engrave, carve and possibly inlay metal in low relief.
For beginners, the aim of the course is to learn from scratch how to engrave/carve metal. For those with some experience, the aim is to build on existing skills and, with a bit of guidance, improve areas where necessary, as well as learning new skills, including inlaying.
The techniques covered will include setting up a new tool, transferring and marking out a design and holding your work. Working through a series of samples and test pieces, you will learn how to work at a level at which you can continue on your own and make something to be proud of.
The course will include discussions and demonstrations, with samples and illustrations, individual teaching and the chance to work on anything particular you might have in mind.
A small piece of ply, some plasticine and two pieces of copper sheet, 80mm square x 0.8mm thick, are provided.
Available from shop: The shop stocks a good variety of art and craft materials, including 4/0 Piercing saw blades, soft pencils, square gravers 2.5mm, flat scorper No 16, round edge scorper No 6, short mushroom handles for gravers, paper, masking tape, metal sheet – copper or silver 0.8 mm thick, 80mm square.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toed shoes 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
Angus is a silversmith and engraver. He has work in the Goldsmiths' company collection and the V&A. He is currently chair of the Hand Engravers Association and a member of Contemporary British Silversmiths.
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