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About the Course
Spend a day in a professional jewellery workshop creating your own sterling silver ring from start to finish.
This practical workshop introduces students to the fundamental techniques used in traditional jewellery making. Working with sterling silver, you'll learn how to measure, form, solder, finish and polish a ring while gaining confidence using professional jewellery tools and equipment.
Whether you're completely new to jewellery making or already have some experience at the bench, the course offers an enjoyable and rewarding day of making, learning and creativity.
By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a finished sterling silver ring and a good knowledge of jewellery-making techniques.
Techniques Covered Include:
Measuring and sizing a ring
Piercing and cutting metal
Forming and shaping
Annealing
Soldering
Filing and refining
Surface finishing
Polishing
Safe use of jewellery workshop tools and equipment
What will the day be like?
The course combines demonstrations, practical making and individual tuition throughout the day.
Your tutor will demonstrate each stage of the process before guiding you through the techniques at your own workbench. There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions, receive feedback and develop your confidence working with precious metal.
The workshop environment is relaxed, supportive and suitable for a range of experience levels.
Reference materials and examples will be available throughout the day.
Who is this course for?
This course is suitable for:
Complete beginners who want to explore their creative side
Students who have attended introductory jewellery courses
Hobby jewellers looking to refresh their skills
Creative makers interested in learning traditional techniques
Anyone who would like to make and wear their own jewellery
No previous experience is required.
What will you make?
Each student will create a sterling silver ring using traditional jewellery-making techniques.
The silver required for one ring is included in the course fee, and students will leave with a finished piece ready to wear.
Your Tutor
Kelvin J. Birk is an award-winning jeweller and educator with a Master’s degree (Distinction) in Silversmithing, Jewellery and Allied Arts from the Sir John Cass Faculty of Art. Exhibiting internationally, he creates bespoke pieces in silver, gold and crushed gemstones, embracing experimentation and allowing materials to shape the final outcome. Alongside his studio practice, Kelvin has taught jewellery masterclasses and workshops worldwide and has lectured at institutions including Kensington & Chelsea College, the University of Westminster, Kunstschule Liechtenstein, and London Metropolitan University.
Frequently asked questions
Is the silver included?
Yes. The sterling silver required to make one ring is included in the course fee.
Do I need previous experience?
No. The course is suitable for complete beginners while also providing value for students with some previous jewellery-making experience.
Will I finish my ring during the workshop?
Yes. Students should expect to complete and take home a finished sterling silver ring by the end of the day.
What should I wear?
Please wear comfortable clothing suitable for workshop activities and closed-toe shoes.