Jewelry Making Classes near Nelson, BC
CASTING 101: Intro to Lost Wax Casting (3-class series)
Early Bird Price: $299 – Save $50! Register by April 30, 2025 to get this special rate! Use code: SAVE50 at checkout.
Regular Tuition: $349
Early Bird Bonus: Materials & Studio Fee INCLUDED ($90 value!)
Regularly $30 per session, this covers all wax, investment, shared tools, kiln use, and studio access for 3 classes. Early bird registrants get it free — no separate payment required! Register by April 30, 2025 to claim this deal!
🛠️ Required Materials & Studio Fee: $30/session. This covers consumable supplies, gases, studio overhead and up to 10g of brass or copper for in class use. Sterling silver and gold are available for purchase upon request.
Pay cash at the beginning of class OR add the required fee to your cart before checking out. 👉 Click here to add it to your cart.
Carve, Mold & Create: Learn the Lost Wax Casting Process from Start to Finish!
Ready to play with fire and learn the ancient art of lost wax casting? Turn fire and wax into an unforgettable learning experience in this exciting 3-class series! You'll dive into carving, molding, and pouring molten metal, building essential skills every step of the way in a hands-on, supportive environment. Whether you’re new to metalworking or refining your technique, this workshop is your chance to experiment, grow, and master the art of casting.
Saturday, May 10, 17 & 24, 2025 | 12:00–3:00 PM
📍 Samonte Cruz Studios
7012 1st Ave, Ymir, BC V0G 2K0
Prerequisites: CASTING 101, 102, 103 or equivalent experience using a jeweller’s casting torch & pouring molten metal.
What to Bring
- N95 mask
- Safety glasses
- Hearing protection
- Closed-toed shoes (leather preferred but not required)
- Respirator (if you want to participate in the molding process)
- Apron or clothes you don’t mind getting dirty (optional)
Limited Seats Available. Small Class, Big Creative Growth.
With only 2–6 students per session, you’ll get hands-on instruction and personalized feedback from a professional goldsmith. This small class size ensures you receive the support you need to refine your skills and gain confidence in metal casting. Spaces are extremely limited and fill quickly—don’t wait! Reserve your spot now and take the first step in your casting journey.
What Is Lost Wax Casting?
Lost wax casting is an ancient metalworking technique that allows you to create highly detailed jewelry and sculptures. This method has been used for thousands of years to transform hand-carved wax models into metal works of art, making it an essential skill for jewellers and metalsmiths.
WORKSHOP HIGHLIGHTS
🔥 Hands-on Learning – Get expert guidance as you carve, mold, and cast your own designs. Hands-on learning with expert guidance – Develop lost wax casting skills in a supportive environment.
🛠 Professional Tools & Materials – Work with high-quality casting equipment in a fully equipped studio. 🔥 Work with professional casting torches & equipment – No expensive setup required!
✨ Freedom to Explore – Learn at your own pace and experiment with techniques to refine your skills.
🎭 Embrace the Unexpected – Casting is unpredictable, and every attempt—successful or not—is part of the creative process. Embrace the process, not just the product – Every attempt builds skills, whether or not you create a finished piece.
🔍 Skill-Building Focus – Develop a strong foundation in lost wax casting, from wax carving to mold-making and finishing.
⚒ Small Class Size – Enjoy personalized instruction and one-on-one support in a welcoming learning environment.
🔥 Play with fire! – Safely work with molten metal and discover the magic of casting.
💎 Comprehensive Learning – Learn everything you need to transform your wax models into unique wearable art or miniature sculptures.
COURSE OVERVIEW
Unleash your creativity and transform molten metal into wearable art in this exciting, hands-on lost wax casting workshop! This ancient technique allows you to carve, mold, and cast your own custom jewelry or small sculptures, with every step of the process guided by expert instruction. Whether you're a total beginner or have some experience, you’ll gain full access to professional tools and the freedom to explore at your own pace in a dynamic, supportive studio.
Casting is as thrilling as it is unpredictable—no two pours are the same, and occasional failures are all part of the adventure. This workshop is designed to help you experiment, troubleshoot, and refine your skills, with the true magic being in the process itself. While completing a finished piece is a goal, the focus is on developing your technique and building your confidence. Step into the exciting world of lost wax casting, embrace the unexpected, and let your creative vision come to life!
SKILLS & TECHNIQUES TO EXPLORE
- Wax carving for jewelry and small sculptures
- Creating detailed molds from wax models
- Torch safety and metal pouring techniques
- Casting using the metal of your choice
- Finishing and polishing techniques
WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE?
This course is ideal for anyone interested in learning the art of lost wax casting, whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience in metalworking. It’s perfect for hobbyists, artists, and anyone looking to explore the creative possibilities of casting. Join us to bring your ideas to life in a supportive, hands-on environment!
COURSE OVERVIEW
Step into the exciting world of lost wax casting and bring your jewelry designs to life! This ancient metalworking technique allows you to create stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces from your original designs by carving in wax, creating molds, and pouring molten metal. Perfect for both beginners and those with some experience, this 3-day intensive course will guide you through each phase, from wax carving to casting in brass. With step-by-step guidance and full access to tools and materials, you’ll gain the skills and confidence to create beautiful jewelry and continue your casting journey.
SKILLS & TECHNIQUES TO EXPLORE
- Wax carving for jewelry and small sculptures
- Creating detailed molds from wax models
- Torch safety and metal pouring techniques
- Casting using the metal of your choice
- Finishing and polishing techniques
WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS COURSE?
This course is ideal for anyone interested in learning the art of lost wax casting, whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience in metalworking. It’s perfect for hobbyists, artists, and anyone looking to explore the creative possibilities of casting. Join us to bring your ideas to life in a supportive, hands-on environment!
CHART YOUR OWN COURSE
Recommended Learning Progression (optional)
Casting 101: Introduction to Casting – Torch safety, water casting, and straw casting.
Casting 102: Cuttlefish Casting – Learn how to carve designs and cast metal using natural cuttlebone molds.
Casting 103: Sand Casting – Create simple, textured metal pieces with sand mold techniques.
Casting 105: Lost Wax Casting – Learn to carve detailed wax models, make molds, and cast your designs in metal.
Open Studio: Explore fabrication & finishing techniques to transform your casting into wearable works of art!
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Materials Provided:
✔ Wax & mold-making supplies
✔ Up to 10 grams of brass for casting
✔ Casting equipment & tools
Access to Studio Tools & Equipment:
🛠 Casting station, kiln, professional torches, and ventilation system
🛠 Molding tools, wax carving tools, and polishing supplies
🛠 Protective gear: Shade #3 green welding glasses and leather aprons
Class Cancellation & Refund Policy
No Refunds: Refunds or credits are not issued for missed classes, failed castings or incomplete projects.
Sick Policy: Notify the instructor 24 hours in advance if you're sick to receive a credit for a future class.
Class Cancellations: If a session is canceled due to instructor illness or extreme weather, a make-up class or credit will be offered.
Metal Use & Safety Guidelines
For everyone's safety, only metal purchased from Samonte Cruz Studios or another reputable supplier can be cast, heated, or soldered in the studio. If you'd like to use your own metal, please contact the instructor to book a private session at their discretion.
Available for Purchase
- Ear plugs
- N95 masks
- Silicone polishing wheels
- Miscellaneous burs & cutting wheels
- Gold and silver (available upon request)
- Additional casting wax for carving
