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10-week Workshop with Grant McCaig | 1 evening a week
Tuesdays evenings, 6:30 - 9pm
22 Sept– 1 Dec 2026 (no class on 27 Oct)
About the course
This course is ideal for beginners who would like an introduction to jewellery making and want to learn fundamental jewellery skills in a supportive workshop environment.
You will be introduced to techniques such as piercing, soldering, annealing, filing, texturing, roll-milling, forming, doming and polishing. You will also learn how to correctly and safely handle jewellery tools and equipment. These basic skills will enable you to design and make your own unique jewellery pieces while developing confidence and creativity.
Whether you are interested in classic or contemporary jewellery, your tutor will support you throughout the course and offer guidance on how to develop and improve your designs. With a small class size of a maximum of 9 students, there is plenty of opportunity for individual support.
Examples of jewellery projects you may work on include:
a ring with a special feature, such as a cut-out shape or interesting texture
a pair of stacking rings
a bangle or open cuff
a pair of earrings
a pendant
a simple handmade chain or bracelet made with jump rings
a brooch
If you are a complete beginner, you will start by learning basic jewellery-making techniques using base metals such as copper or brass, which are provided. Once you have developed your skills and feel confident, you may choose to purchase your own silver to use for final pieces, but this is optional.
If you already have some experience, the tutor will be able to advise you on projects that are suitable for your individual needs and development. By the end of the course, you will have completed several jewellery pieces and gained plenty of ideas and inspiration for future projects.
We run this course every term, so you are welcome to sign up for another set of evening classes to continue developing your jewellery-making skills. Future projects may include setting a cabochon gemstone in a silver ring, pendant or bracelet with a clasp.
All tools and base materials, including copper and brass, are included. Precious metals such as silver, and any gemstones, are not included and would need to be purchased separately if you choose to use them.
About the tutor
Grant McCaig has lectured, taught and exhibited internationally. His work can be found in the Goldsmiths’ Company Modern Collection, National Museums of Scotland Edinburgh, Birmingham Museums & Art Galleries and Aberdeen Art Galleries & Museums. He has been commissioned by the Scottish Parliament and Edinburgh University. Trained at Glasgow School Art and the Royal College of Art, Grant’s work encompasses both jewellery and large scale silverware. He is an imaginative and proficient maker, passionate about learning and using the skills of making to explore the material world.
Grant is currently senior Lecturer in Jewellery at UCA Farnham and was subject leader for Metals at West Dean College of Art. He has taught internationally lecturing in Colombia and Japan. He has been mentor for the Crafts Council and for the Incorporation of Scottish Goldsmiths. He holds a Postgraduate certificate in creative education from UCA.
He continues to make and exhibit regularly from his London studio.
Meet the tutor here.