SATURDAYS
CASTING 201
JEWELRY CASTING EXPLORATION
Lost Wax & Metal Art: Personalized Instruction for All Levels
Choose One Day or Multiple:
Saturday, February 8th 2025 | 12-3pm
Saturday, February 15th 2025 | 12-3pm
Tuition: $120/class
Supplies: $20+ based on project; paid in class
No previous experience required!
COURSE OVERVIEW
Unlock your casting potential in this flexible, hands-on course designed for all skill levels! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced metalsmith, this course allows you to decide what you'd like to explore. Choose from essential casting techniques including safety, torch use, water casting, broom casting, cuttlefish casting, and wax carving. Perfect for those looking to explore new techniques or refine their skills, you can take one day or sign up for multiple days to dive deeper, especially into lost wax casting, which is best experienced over two sessions. Personalized guidance ensures you’re supported every step of the way as you bring your unique jewelry designs to life!
Please note: Casting is inherently unpredictable, and occasional failures are an unavoidable part of the process. This class is designed to provide studio access and encourage student-directed learning, with students working at their own pace. The outcome depends on what each student accomplish during the three-hour studio session, and while creating a finished piece is often the goal, it is not guaranteed. Refunds will not be issued for failed castings.
For beginners, it's best to start with water casting, broom casting, or cuttlefish casting to get used to using the casting torch and pouring molten metal. Lost wax casting requires a minimum of two sessions, potentially more for beginners. The first session is for carving and molding your wax model, and the second session is for casting and finishing your piece. If you prefer, I can cast it for you for a small fee.
WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE?
Setting up a safe and efficient casting workspace in a home studio can be challenging. This Open Studio Casting course offers the chance to gain hands-on experience with professional equipment—without the high cost of investing in your own system. Perfect for anyone interested in casting techniques, whether you’re a complete beginner or have some metalworking experience, this course invites hobbyists, artists, and creatives to explore the creative possibilities of casting. Join us in a supportive, hands-on studio environment and bring your ideas to life!
SKILLS & TECHNIQUES TO EXPLORE
- Torch Safety
- Metal Pouring Techniques
- Water Casting
- Broom Casting
- Cuttlefish Casting
- Wax Carving
- Mold Creation
- Casting Brass, Silver and/or Gold
- Polishing and Finishing
HIGHLIGHTS
Torch Safety & Training: Get trained on how to use a Little Smith Torch, the industry standard for professional goldsmiths.
Introduction to Lost Wax Casting: Learn the essentials of this ancient metalworking art.
Hands-on Experience: Design, carve, and create your own unique piece.
Pouring Molten Metal & Casting: Experience the transformation as molten metal fills your design.
Finishing Techniques: Polish and perfect your piece to a fine finish.
Personal Creations: Design and cast custom jewelry or small sculptures.
Rinse & Repeat
This class is designed to be repeatable, so you can revisit and reinforce your skills or work on personal projects as much as you like. By the end, you’ll be ready to dive into more advanced jewelry-making courses!
Materials Included: Price includes up to 20 grams of brass to create your unique jewelry pieces. Opportunity to purchase silver for those looking to elevate their designs. Gold also available upon request.
- N95 Mask
- Safety Glasses
- Hearing Protection
- Closed-Toed Shoes
- Apron or Old Clothes: Wear an apron or clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, especially if you’ll be participating in the molding process.
- If you plan to participate in the molding process for lost wax casting, please remember that a respirator is mandatory for that part of the class.