Course description: In this informal class you will learn to design and make jewelry using the lost wax casting method. Joni will help you take your design and teach you to carve your model in wax. Then you will be guided through how to make a mold. Then, replicate your model in sterling silver or ancient bronze using centrifugal casting. Students will be guided step by step in the process in order to make unique pieces of jewelry. Upon request the instructor will also cover vacuum casting and making rubber molds of your finished piece so you will have production options for making multiples.

Materials: Students should bring sterling casting grain or scrap and a dust mask rated P100 or N95. Ancient bronze casting grain is included.

Prerequisite: Beginning jewelry or equivalent. Students should know how to saw, solder, file and polish metal.

Course description: Cuttlefish bone casting is an ancient means of creating a cast object. This method is an easy, low tech way to create cast jewelry without all the equipment needed for lost wax casting. The low cost and convenience make it a great solution for the small studio. Discover the immediacy of casting with cuttlefish bone, the texture it can create, and how to use it to create multiples by making simple models. Learn hands on how to carve the cuttlefish to create a mold for the direct casting of silver or bronze. You will also learn how to create a three part mold for the 3-dimensional casting of a ring with a stone setting, links, ingots as well as casting jewelry with stones in place. A great way to use your scrap silver scrap and turn it into new jewelry, cuttlefish casting is fun, fast and affordable!

Materials Included: bronze casting grain and brass jump rings, brass wire, cuttlefish bones for carving

Materials Students Should Bring:

• - Sterling silver scrap or casting grain, ½ - 1oz
• -N95 dust mask
• - Small cabochons and faceted stones if you wish
• - Small soft paint brush
• - Dental tools or sharp little carving tools
• - X-acto knife
• - personal jewelry tools and kit

Prerequisite: Beginning Jewelry or equivalent

Course description: Learn to design and create your own chains and clasps with award winning jewelry artist Micki Lippe. Micki will show you a variety of different ways to make handmade chain links and clasps from wire or sheet metal. The class will begin with exercises to jumpstart the creative process, after which you will complete different chain samples or one finished chain (you may chose to spend the whole time working on the samples). You will also learn to design custom clasps to fit the unique design of your chain. Micki will show you toggle clasps of all sorts, S-hooks and keyhole style clasps. Plus, she will share her tips on how to incorporate beads or alternative materials into jewelry in innovative ways. Demos will include soldering with the Smith brand Little Torch, rivets, hammering, roll printing, dapping, and much, much more!

Materials: Students should bring: emery paper (black carbon silicon)- 220 and 320 grit, any other materials you wish to incorporate (stones, beads etc), please bring samples of your current work AND BRING YOUR SENSE OF HUMOR!! Let's have fun.

**New note from instructor: Bring scissors, stapler, tape and two file folders (may be used)

Metals: Brass or copper are provided, students who want to work in sterling silver should bring:

• 26 gauge sheet, at least 2 square inches
• round wire: 20 gauge -10 inches, 18 gauge - 5 inches, 16 gauge - 5 inches

  Optional tools to bring: Each student will be provided with a set of tools to use during class. If you prefer to bring your own tools we will be using: saw frame and blades #2/0 or #3/0, metal shears, bastard files, needle files, pliers: needle nose, chain nose, flat and combination flat and half/round.

Prerequisite: Beginning jewelry or previous metalworking experience. Students should be able to solder unattended.

NOTE

Course description:  Learn to add movement to your metal creations with hinges and mechanisms. Whether you are interested in lockets, boxes, sculpture or clasps, you will find a solution in this workshop. We will cover many approaches to hinges from simple to complex.

Materials: Copper and brass provided.

Prerequisite: Previous metalworking experience required. Intermediate level.

Course description: You will learn basic blacksmithing techniques with a variety of hands on projects ranging from decorative to functional. Possible projects include plant hangers, candlestick holders, fire pokers, decorative hooks and barbeque skewers, just to name a few.  You'll even learn to make your own blacksmithing tools! Mike will cover safety and operation of a gas forge and all the tools, as well as basic hammering and heating techniques. Learn how to determine what type of steel to select for your projects, ferrous vs. non-ferrous metals, different types of steels and the pros and cons of scrap steel sources. Mike will also have forges for sale if you want to continue on your own. Maximum 10 students.

Materials: $60, payable to the instructor (cash/check only). Each student has his/her own forge and anvil to work with during the class.  Students should bring safety glasses and leather work gloves.

Location:1207 Martin Luther King, Tacoma 98405

Prerequisite: None

Course description: This fun class is packed with a variety of creative techniques for applying color to metals.  Working with copper, students will explore cold fusion techniques working with different resins for “Fauxnamel” effects, colored pencils, new patina methods, flame painting and more. The options are endless with the beauty of cold fusion color! Do you have a torch you have never used?  This is the perfect class to get comfortable with some simple torch techniques on how to do flame painting on copper with guidance from Meredith. She will even share her tips on how to seal the colors! You can even create multiple layers of color on color by combining techniques.

Materials: $10 paid to instructor in class covers copper and coloring/patination materials during class.

Prerequisite: None!

Course description: Learn how to create settings for flat backed objects and cabochon cut stones. Bezel setting is also perfect for setting beach glass, coins, buttons, almost anything!  In this class we will cover selecting appropriate bezel wire, silver soldering, fitting irregular and freeform objects, making a ring band or pendant bail, polishing and stone setting. You will be able to finish a ring or pendant.

Materials: Bring a stone or object to set or purchase one from our assortment. Students should bring $10-$20 to cover the cost of silver and a stone.

Prerequisite: No experience necessary!

Course description: Filigree is an intricate fabrication technique where a wire frame is filled with fine threads of decorative wire and small balls of metal. Jennifer will show you step by step how to create patterns for a frame and fill the frames using various techniques from around the world. Jennifer will you how to create the frame, how to twist and curl the wire to create the fill the frame and show you how make a pendant and ring project. Jennifer will also demonstrate granulation and adding a bezel set stone accent for additional ornamentation. You'll learn to use powdered solder and Jennifer will discuss fusing and soldering techniques appropriate for the many different styles of filigree, open wire work, and shaping filigree to create a dimensional surface.

Materials Included: Each student will be given 3x3" hard charcoal block, flux brush, filigree powdered solder and fine point tweezers to work with and take home after the class. Students will be provided a kit of dead soft silver wire to work with: 35ft of 26g fine silver round, 1.5 ft of 16g square sterling, 2 ft of 16g round sterling, 2 ft of 18g round sterling.
Students should bring: a sketchpad or notebook for notes and sketches, and a pencil.  TMAC provides tools for in class use, but you may opt to bring any favorite jewelry tools that you wish to use.

Prerequisite: A minimum of basic jewelry skills required. Students should be able to work with pliers, jewelry saw know how to solder or fuse.

Course description: Learn to make hollow forms from sheet metal in copper, brass or silver. You'll be guided step by step through cutting discs, doming the circles, fitting solder seams and polishing. Simple texturing techniques will be covered as well.

Materials: Copper and brass provided, sterling available for sale.

Prerequisite: Beginning Jewelry is recommended

Course description: The magic of ‘Metal Clay’ continues with new Sterling Silver One-Fire clay. Learn the basics on how to how to form, texture, dry and fire this clay In this class students will learn to create  flat band rings that, after being fired in a kiln, will be formed around a mandrel into a beautifully designed ring. The sterling is a strong clay with a wonderful soft glow after polishing. Students will learn how to judge shrinkage, how to texture and give dimension to the metal clay, and how to form the band into a ring that fits like a glove. You'll also be able to add an oxidized patina to accentuate the texture of your new creation!

Prerequisite: No prior jewelry experience is necessary, students of all levels are welcome.

Course description: A great starter class for absolute beginners. Learn to design and make your own jewelry step by step!  Amy will cover many metalsmithing fundamentals, including sawing, filing, stamping, hammering, soldering and texturing.  Students will be guided step by step in the use of studio equipment like torches, hand tools, and rolling mill. The instructor will also talk about how to set up a home studio so you can continue on your own after the class. No prior jewelry experience is necessary, students of all levels are welcome. 

Materials included: Copper and brass provided for in class use, silver available for purchase.

Prerequisite: none

Course description - An in-depth workshop in three days, perfect for anyone who has always wanted to learn jewelry-making but never had the time. The instructor will cover all of the metalsmithing fundamentals, including sawing, filing, stamping, hammering, and texturing, and that is just the first day! We will also cover bezel setting stones, making rings, and lots of soldering. Students will be guided step by step in the use of studio equipment like torches, hand tools, and rolling mill.. The instructor will also talk about how to set up a home studio so you can continue on your own after the class. No prior jewelry experience is necessary, students of all levels are welcome.  Small class size ensures plenty of one on one instruction. Copper and brass provided for in class use, silver available for purchase.

Materials: Most materials included. Students may opt to purchase silver to work with approx. $10 -$20

Prerequisite: None.

Course description: You will learn basic blacksmithing techniques with a variety of hands on projects ranging from decorative to functional. Possible projects include plant hangers, candlestick holders, fire pokers, decorative hooks and barbeque skewers, just to name a few.  You'll even learn to make your own blacksmithing tools! Mike will cover safety and operation of a gas forge and all the tools, as well as basic hammering and heating techniques. Learn how to determine what type of steel to select for your projects, ferrous vs. non-ferrous metals, different types of steels and the pros and cons of scrap steel sources. Mike will also have forges for sale if you want to continue on your own. Maximum 10 students.

Materials: $60, payable to the instructor (cash/check only). Each student has his/her own forge and anvil to work with during the class.  Students should bring safety glasses and leather work gloves.

Location:1207 Martin Luther King, Tacoma 98405

Prerequisite: None

Course description: Add the luster of gold to fine silver fabrications with very little expense. In the ancient Korean technique of keum-boo (pronounced kum-boo, meaning attached gold) pure gold foil is bonded to the surface of another pure metal such as fine silver or PMC. Gold foil is chemically bonded to fine silver in a heat process using heat and pressure. This technique is low tech and easy to do in your home studio. No experience necessary. Suz will also talk about (but not demonstrate) how this can be used on sterling jewelry that has had the fine silver raised. Advanced students may bring a sterling piece with the fine silver already raised if they wish. Questions on how to do this prior to class? Just call or email us at TMAC!

Materials: $35 for 24K gold foil, paid to the instructor (cash or check only)

Students should bring to class:

1. a small piece of 20 - 22 g fine silver sheet for experimentation (approx. ¾” x 2”, bring your own or purchase from TMAC) cleaned and sanded fine, or a completely finished piece of fine silver jewelry. Deeply textured pieces are NOT advised.

2. bring your own or share the ones in the studio: tweezers, sharp scissors, small paper punch, stone (agate) burnisher

Prerequisite: None, open to all levels

Course description: Learn to use gold-filled wire and solid gold wire to create stunning stacking rings. Jennifer will show you how to work yellow and pink gold-filled wires of different shapes and gauges to create stunning rings. Get the rich look of gold without the cost! You'll learn how to measure, solder and shape the metal, then learn different ways to finish your rings: hammered, plain, matte finish or high shine! Jennifer will also talk about how to work with solid gold. Make a set of stacking rings for yourself, or to give as gifts. Jennifer will also show a great trick for adding a tiny tube set stone!

Materials: Students may bring 14/20 pink or yellow gold-filled wire in different shapes and gauges (2-3" is enough for one ring), and 10K or 14K yellow gold solder (hard, medium or easy), or purchase enough for their projects in class-approximately $10 - $30. Optional-1.5 mm round faceted stones. Students may opt to bring solid 14K gold to work with.

Prerequisite: Beginning jewelry or equivlent.

Course description:  You have heard about PMC for so long, well now is the time to find out what the excitement is all about! This mini-intro will let you get your fingers on the most amazing silver in the world: Precious Metal Clay! Learn basic handling, forming and firing of this amazing silver in this hands on introduction to Precious Metal Clay. Ruth will also show you how to introduce wire to the clay to form decorative and useful elements. Come and learn the flexibility and versatility of PMC! Students will have time to complete multiple pieces; leave the class wearing your new jewelry or give the pieces as holiday gifts!

Materials: $45 paid to instructor in class (cash/check only) for sterling silver wire, 20g PMC+ clay. Instructor will provide tools to use during class, firing and finishing.

Prerequisite: No prior jewelry experience is necessary, students of all levels are welcome.

Course description: Learn the basics for weaving a beautiful chain from wire. The Viking Knit can be done in many colors or combinations that will enhance your hand made pieces. .No experience necessary. Supply kit includes instructions, a spool of wire, sterling silver end caps, finishing wire and accent beads.

Materials Fee: $40 paid to the instructor in class (cash/check only please) includes fine silver wire, sterling silver wire, two end caps and assorted tools and materials for sample pieces.

Prerequisite: none!

Course description - An in-depth workshop in three days, perfect for anyone who has always wanted to learn jewelry-making but never had the time. The instructor will cover all of the metalsmithing fundamentals, including sawing, filing, stamping, hammering, and texturing, and that is just the first day! We will also cover bezel setting stones, making rings, and lots of soldering. Students will be guided step by step in the use of studio equipment like torches, hand tools, and rolling mill.. The instructor will also talk about how to set up a home studio so you can continue on your own after the class. No prior jewelry experience is necessary, students of all levels are welcome.  Small class size ensures plenty of one on one instruction. Copper and brass provided for in class use, silver available for purchase.

Materials: Most materials included. Students may opt to purchase silver to work with approx. $10 -$20

Prerequisite: None.

Course description: Learn to design and make jewelry using the lost wax casting method. Students will be guided step by step in the process in order to make unique pieces of jewelry. You will design and learn to carve a model in wax, and then replicate your model in silver or bronze using lost wax casting. The first day you'll be guided step by step through carving a wax model and making a mold of it. On day two, you will cast your project into bronze, or silver using centrifugal casting. Then, Jennifer will show you how to clean up and polish your project into a beautiful piece of jewelry! Demonstrations will be geared toward completion of the ring project; students may opt to work on a different project.

Materials Fee: includes most materials, N95 dustmask and ancient bronze casting grain. Students who wish to work in sterling silver should bring clean silver scrap or casting grain.

Prerequisite: Beginning jewelry or equivalent. Students should know how to saw, solder, file and polish metal.

Course description: Discover the most successful ways to get your work into galleries, exhibitions, festivals and art fairs. Meredith will show you how using effective, tried and true methods.  You will learn marketing methods to represent yourself and how to make the most of presenting your work in advertising, social media, on business cards, etc. The last couple of hours will be devoted to a hands on intro to photographing jewelry.

Materials: Bring examples of your current work and a digital camera, or smart phone with camera.

Prerequisite: none, this is a class for students of all levels

Course description: Who doesn’t love tiny little homes to hold our imagination, and tiny friends!  This Precious Metal Silver project has many ‘hidden’ construction secrets housed inside the designing and making of these sweet little homes. They make the cutest charms, pendants or earrings! Design them to remember a wonderful magical trip or to house a new fairy friend that you got for the holidays!
With 25g of PMC3 each student should be able to build at least 3 to 4 pieces depending on the size. 

Materials: Silver Clay kit: (Silver Cost TBA, approx $60 for PMC3 25g clay) or Kit fee $10 if supplying your own PMC3 clay.  (Cash or check only please) Please note: Students may bring their own 25g PMC3 or purchase it from the instructor.  Please indicate at time of registration if you will buy the clay in class or bring your own.

Prerequisite: No prior jewelry experience is necessary, but students of all levels are welcome.