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About the course
In this three-day workshop, you will be introduced to the electroforming technique, which will enable you to create unique jewellery pieces, small objects and samples in copper.
The course is designed to help you discover the potential of the technique, which allows you to create intricate, complex three-dimensional shapes. With this process you can produce unique, hollow and lightweight pieces which cannot be done in any other way. First you will learn about the principles of electroforming. We will then select suitable objects to electroform; from plastic ready-mades, to found treasures such as twigs and leaves. You will be shown how to pretreat and prepare objects, combine them with different materials and to apply conductive paint to get them ready for the electroforming.
Due to the lengthy process, the electroforming will be carried out during and in between the sessions. Once your pieces are covered with a proper metal layer, we will focus on finishing techniques; from oxidizing to removing sprues.
There will be a maximum of 8 students in the class.
Who is the course for?
Jewellers, artists, sculptors, craft practitioners who are looking to incorporating electroforming into their work, as well as hobbyists interested in this technique. No prior jewellery/making skills are necessary.
What can I electroform?
Each student may electroform 2–3 small organic pieces (approximately 4 × 4 cm, or one slightly larger piece) and a small selection (4–5 pieces) of non-organic objects. Non-organic examples include plastic objects, readymades, small plastic toys, glass or ceramic pieces. This category also includes objects made from hard carving jewellery wax. Some wax will be available during the course, allowing you to create new pieces. Different materials can be combined in one piece. It is also possible to incorporate gemstones; however, please note that some minerals react with the chemicals used in the process. For this reason, synthetic stones are recommended. Please be aware that larger pieces require longer electroforming times, so the total number of pieces you are able to complete during the course will depend on their size as well as your individual working speed.
Is there anything else I need to bring?
All tools and materials are provided. If you are very sensitive to chemicals and fumes, please bring your own advanced fume mask.
Overview on the course
DAY 1 (10am - 5pm):
-You will be shown examples of electroformed pieces
- You will get a handout with information of: the principle of electroforming, health & safety, step-by-step guide of the electroforming process
- Preparing your materials/pieces for electroforming; integrating bails, attachments etc, mixing and combining different materials
- You will learn how to set up the electroforming tank
- We will start electroforming your first pieces, which will electroform overnight
DAY 2 (10am - 4pm):
- Finishing off the pieces that electroformed overnight
- You will be given some finishing tips, eg. oxidising with platinol solution
-Preparing more pieces for electroforming, which will electroform overnight
DAY 3 (1 - 4pm):
- Cleaning and take down of tanks, some troubleshooting and Q&A
Health & Safety
We will provide standard health and safety supplies like aprons, gloves and googles. If you are very sensitive to chemicals and fumes, please bring your own advanced fume mask. This course involves the use of chemicals that may cause sensitivity for some participants. We recommend downloading and reviewing the Safety Data Sheets here in advance to familiarise yourself with the materials and identify any potential issues.
Who will run the course?
The course will be led by Karolina Brodnicka. After graduating from the BA Fine Art at Central Saint Martins in 2015, Karolina gained broad experience working across fashion, millinery, product design, and sculpture. In 2017, she was introduced to the electroforming technique by Katrin Spranger, co-founder and co-director of K2 Academy, while assisting in her studio. That same year, Karolina began a two-year jewellery education at K2 Academy. She now divides her time between her creative practice and working as a creative consultant within the jewellery and art industries.
Meet the tutors here.
