Pound out the rhythm of the changing seasons in full color in this fun virtual class all about metal forming! Through the creation of real - or fanciful - flora from flat copper sheet, we will explore a variety of both traditional and unconventional forming techniques.

We'll begin with an introduction to the simple tools used to make spicula and other small shell forms, including instructions for making your own spiculum block from a 2x4. Then we'll learn to develop patterns and transform flat copper shapes into dimensional organic forms using a variety of hammers, stakes, and forming blocks. Finally, we'll prep our pieces and add vibrant color using colored pencils (optional).

Students will leave the class with the skills to make their own spiculum block, and to transform flat copper sheet into colorful volumetric botanical forms that stand on their own or can be incorporated into jewelry or small sculpture.

Add a flash of brilliance to your jewelry with the power of precision stone setting! In this hands-on workshop, you'll learn the fundamentals of both flush setting and tube setting—two essential techniques for securely setting small, round, faceted stones with a sleek, professional finish.

Led by metalsmith and educator Kristin Mitsu Shiga, the class kicks off with the creation of custom tools tailored to these specific setting styles. We’ll practice with sterling silver and cubic zirconia, but the skills you gain are perfect for setting a range of hard, round faceted stones, including diamonds, sapphires, and rubies, in gold and silver. Ideal for both beginners and seasoned makers, this workshop also covers practical studio tips, including production stone-setting tips, clever work-holding solutions and proper use of rubberized abrasives. Expect a fun, fast-paced, info-packed weekend that will elevate your jewelry with clean, modern sparkle.

Beginning Metals Fabrication skills (sawing, filing, soldering) are helpful, but not required.

Unlock the magic of controlled chaos in Melting With Purpose, a hands-on virtual class devoted to the art of torch fusing! This exciting technique allows you to join and texture metal without solder. Using the heat of your torch to selectively melt and fuse surfaces, you can create rich, organic textures perfect for one-of-a-kind jewelry and small metalwork.

Working with Argentium silver (940), a highly fuse-friendly alloy known for its clean joins and ease of use, you’ll learn how to coax metal to the edge of melting—without going too far. We’ll cover a range of texturing methods and explore how heat control, timing, and torch placement are key to mastering this delicate balance.

You’ll leave the class with a variety of samples, a toolkit of surface techniques, and the confidence to keep fusing on your own. If you love texture, spontaneity, and a little fire, this course is for you!

Unearth bold textures in this exciting two-day virtual class dedicated to the art of cuttlefish bone casting! This centuries-old technique uses the soft, ridged interior of these marine mollusks as a mold for molten silver, resulting in castings with rich, organic texture that no other method can replicate. No expensive equipment is required, and no two castings are ever alike!

On Day 1, we'll learn how to select and cut cuttlefish bones, prepare and carve molds, glaze and season a new crucible, safely melt and pour silver, and clean up raw castings for later use. We’ll discuss best practices for working with silver scrap—making this a perfect opportunity to recycle precious metal and minimize waste.

On Day 2, we’ll transform those raw castings into one-of-a-kind, wearable rings. Demos will cover sizing, soldering, and finishing techniques. Creative design approaches to help you make the most of your unique forms, including incomplete castings - will also be discussed.