Date: July 20 - July 20, 2012
Alchemy & Relics
Time: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
This program is suited for attendees at All levels of experience.
Get the classic look of silver without paying the current price. How? By using readily available and inexpensive, silver-bearing lead-free solder. Heated to a molten stage, the solder can be easily stamped and takes on the look of cast silver. In this class you will learn how to etch a master stamp of heavy gauge non-ferrous sheet metal, and then use the stamp to create “cast silver” components. You will then learn to set cabochons into bezel cups which will be affixed to the “silver” impression. Riveted onto a metal backdrop, these will turn into gorgeous earrings and/or pendants …or both for the ambitious, industrious student.
(Soldering experience will be helpful, but not essential as the basics will be discussed and demonstrated.)
About the Instructor
Richard has recently retired from teaching in public schools to devote more time to his art and teaching workshops around the country. He considers himself not so much a jeweler but rather a ‘maker of wearable art’. His interests include digital art, mixed media collage/assemblage, sculpture and jewelry.
Richard’s work has been featured in Belle Armoire Jewelry, Art Jewelry and Jewelry Artist magazines. Other published work can be seen in Susan Lenart-Kazmer’s book Making Connections, Steel Wire Jewelry by Brenda Schweder, Steampunk Style Jewelry by Jean Campbell and Metal Style by Karen Dougherty.
Richard and his wife, Jane, reside in Santa Fe , New Mexico.
Studio and Material Fee
Material fee includes the following:
- copper sheet for stamps
- brass escutcheon pins
- micro bolts
- etching solution
- butane torches and fuel
- flux
- copper chain
- 5mm cabachons (3)
- 5mm sterling silver bezel cups (3)
- 8mm cabachon (1)
- 8mm sterling silver bezel cups (1)
- miscellaneous studio supplies and equipment for student use
Student Supplies
Students should bring the following supplies:
- Supplies
- 24 or 22 gauge copper or brass approx. 4"x4" minimum
- Silver bearing solder – solid core, lead-free - 3oz or more. Available at Lowes, Home Depot, Ace and online. (Some brand names to look for include Oatey and BernzOmatic.)
- Tools
- Eye Protection & Ear Protection
- Bench Pin or Vise
- Bench block or Anvil
- Small hammer for riveting
- Work gloves
- Metal shears
- Files
- Sanding/polishing materials
Optional Supplies
Ready-to-use etched copper or brass for the backing sheet of the pendant/earrings, Texturing hammers, Jeweler's saw and blades, Butane Torch, Soldering pad
Additional Program Information
Meals
Lunch is served in our community building at 12:30 p.m. and will be provided at an additional $15.00 per day. You must make your lunch reservation in advance. We pride ourselves in offering a healthy and organic lunch which will exceed your expectations. If you do not wish to make a reservation, please bring a sack lunch. Beverages will be provided. Some workshops have optional evening meal events, which must also be reserved in advance. Evening meal event prices vary, ranging from $15.00-$30.00 per meal.
Networking
A social hour is provided from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. following the first day of each program. Wine, cheese and a non-alcolohic beverage will be served in the community room for you to enjoy.
Policies
CANCELLATIONS: While we understand that circumstances can arise causing a change in your plans, we must adhere to a business policy. Because it is impossible for Valley Ridge to favor one individual situation or circumstance over another, we must adhere to our policy in all situations and can make no exceptions to our cancellation policy.
- 45 Days or More prior to a workshop: Full refund of tuition, less a $75.00 cancellation fee.
- 44 Days or Less prior to a workshop: No refunds or credits for any reason.
Registration Fees: The entire registration fee is due in full at time of registration. Valley Ridge Art Studio provides an advance deposit option to make it easier for those with financial constraints to participate in our programs. The advance deposit fee secures your workshop space, and is applied to your entire workshop registration fee. Payment for your fee/materials balance and any other optional meals will be charged to your credit card 45 days prior to workshop. Non-credit card payments will receive an invoice, which is due upon receipt.
Transfer Policy: You may transfer out of a workshop to another program in the same season. Transfer request must be received at least 45 days prior to a program. There will be a $50.00 transfer fee assessed on each transfer.
Credit Card Transaction Reversal: You intended to reserve a workshop and registered for one instead. You noticed your credit card was charged for the entire balance and only wanted to apply $75.00. You would like your credit card credited for the difference. We at Valley Ridge Art Studio are willing to reverse your transaction. There will be a $25.00 administrative fee per reversal request. Your balance will be due 45 days prior to the workshop.
Program schedule is subject to change.
Release/Waiver
I understand the risks associated with my attendance at the Studio and the use of various tools, equipment and products found in the Studio. I voluntarily agree to assume the risk of injury or illness or property damage that may arise out of my attendance at the Studio and use of tools, equipment and products found in the Studio and hereby waive and release the Studio and its members, affiliates, employees, and agents and assigns from any and all claims, actions or losses which I may suffer as a result of my attendance at and use of the Studio. I further agree to hold harmless, defend and indemnify the Studio and its members, affiliates, employees, and agents and assigns from any and all claims, actions or losses arising out of my attendance at and use of the Studio or use of the tools, equipment and products found in the Studio regardless of the cause, including but not limited to the negligence of the Studio or its members, affiliates, employees, and agents and assigns.

