Workshop: Blacksmithing Methods for Jewelers

When we think of steel, we typically think of heavy anvils, vises, and our hand tools. Outside the studio, steel brings to mind architectural components like gates and railings. What if we scaled things down, and brought blacksmithing into the jewelry studio? You will learn several techniques common to blacksmithing (shaping the material while hot) and whitesmithing (the refining of surfaces while the material is cool). You will also learn about the properties of mild (low-carbon) and stainless steels. Paul will teach you hot and cold forging, surface finishes and patinas for steel, and joinery appropriate for the scale of jewelry. He will also teach you about identification and selection of material, and special considerations for using steel in a typical jeweler's studio. Along with a new set of skills, by the end of this workshop, you'll have acquired an appreciation for blacksmithing and the versatility of steel. Prerequisite: Jewelry/Metalsmithing I or equivalent

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