Introduction to Jewelry Making

This course is designed to introduce you to a variety of technical processes, design concepts, and tools essential for understanding and working with non-ferrous metals on a wearable scale. Attention will be given to material sourcing, the production and critique of metalwork, and the cultural and historical aspects of jewelry as artistic expression. Some basic techniques that will be covered include sawing, filing, riveting, simple forming, hammer texture, soldering, and finishing.

Note that this classroom is accessible by stairs only; please contact Fleisher for more information.

Special Notes

This is an in-person class which will take place onsite at Fleisher. Please review our COVID-19 community safety policies for current guidelines.

Tuition Assistance is Available

To make our classes and workshops accessible to everyone, Fleisher offers tuition assistance every term so that everyone can join our creative community. Tuition assistance applications can be completed once registration is open by clicking here. The deadline to apply for spring term assistance is Friday, March 10; Notifications will be sent by Monday, March 13.

What you will learn:

  • Design concepts as they pertain to wearable and decorative metals

  • Working with specialized tools

  • Basic techniques

Recommended jewelry and metal suppliers:

    • Hagstoz: 709 Sansom Street. • 215-922-1627
    • Pamma Tools: 809 Sansom Street • 215-928-6004
    • Rio Grande: www.riogrande.com 1-800-545-6566

Start the term with these supplies:

  • Herkules saw blades 2/0 – two dozen (24 total)

  • 3 x 3 inch 20 gauge copper sheet or brass sheet

  • 3 x 3 inch 20 gauge brass sheet

  • Double stick tape

  • Sketchbook or paper to draw on

  • Sharpie thin and thick “black” only

  • Pencil and pen

For the first class:

  • 3 inches of 18 gauge sterling silver, 5mm wide rectangular wire

  • 1 fine silver 6mm bezel cup

  • 1 6mm calibrated cabochon cut gemstone

  • 6 inches each of silver wire solder hard, medium, easy

Midway through the term you will need:

  • Cabochon cut stone, round or oval in shape, and at least 1/2 inch in diameter

  • Sterling silver bezel wire

  • Sterling silver sheet 24 gauge – 1 x 1 inch

  • Solder hard, medium, easy – 6 inches of each

  • 3 small plastic bags or containers to keep solder in

  • Masking tape

No Nickel or Steel in studio unless previously discussed and Gold at your own expense! Materials are extremely important to have because without them projects will not be able to be completed.