VIDEO LESSONS IN THIS COURSE
All pieces shown in the images above were made by beginners during my silver workshops
In this zoom-based workshop to be held on the evening of Saturday July 9th, you'll learn how to take fresh leaves, flowers and other nature finds you may come across on walks or in your garden, and make them into truly beautiful pendants. The process of using artclay silver is like modern-day alchemy, turning pieces of drab grey clay made from particles of recycled silver into wearable, intricate casts of natures shapes and patterns.
The zoom session will take place over 3 hours, with a half hour break half way through. During this time I will teach you how to cast nature finds in silver and how the combination of nature and time spent creatively on your mental health. The session will be recorded and you will have access to it for 24 hours.
Tools and materials
I've collaborated with Metalclay Ltd in the UK and ArtclayWorld in the US to develop a special kit tailored for my silver workshops and courses and the techniques I teach. Buying a kit provides you with everything you need to make one or more pendants except for a means of firing your pieces (ordinary gas hob/cookertop or camping stove). The kit gives you 20% off buying the tools and materials iseparately. You can find the UK version here and the US version here.
If you purchase a ticket I will send you an invitation to the zoom session 24 hours prior to the workshop
The short paragraphs below describe what I'll teach you during the workshop.
Introduction and how making silver pieces using these techniques will alter how you feel
Who I am and why I'm teaching you this, the changes that take place in our brains when we spend time in a green space and spend time focussed on making, and what happens when we combine the two. I'll explain how even short walks or just a brief period of creative activity really can improve our mental health.
At each relevant stage in the process of making your silver piece I'll tell you how that particular activity can alter brain chemistry and/or levels of stress hormone and in doing so improve mental health.
The history and chemistry of and how to handle silver clay
How and why silver clay was invented, what it's made of, what happens when it's fired and how best to handle and use it efficiently to ensure your pieces turn out beautifully and have as much detail as possible.
Making your pendants
How to roll out your clay, cast your nature finds and ensure your piece can be used to make a necklace.
The secret to making several of the same design...
I share the secret to making more than one copy of a design you love, so you can give one to a pal.
Drying, smoothing and firing
How to finesse your pieces to make them pleasing to the eye , comfortable to wear and...how to set them on fire...
Polishing, oxidising and burnishing
Creating beautiful patina on your fired silver piece: an almost magical and very satisfying part of the process.
Constructing your necklace
How to attach you pendants to a chain so you can wear your pieces.
If you have any questions about this course, please send an email to: [emma at minniedog.co.uk]