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A sculptural wax and metal finishing masterclass with Lorna Romanenghi.

Mitsuro Hikime is a mesmerising wax technique known for its flowing, organic lines and the way it captures movement in a way no other method can. In The Art of Mitsuro, you’ll dive deep into this ancient process, learning to make and shape your own wax, explore expressive forms, and understand how Mitsuro translates into finished metal jewellery.

Over two days with artist and goldsmith Lorna Romanenghi, you’ll experiment widely, play with material, develop technical skill, and learn how to elevate Mitsuro forms once cast. You’ll leave with a beautifully finished ring, a box of your own sculptural wax pieces, and the knowledge to keep pushing the technique in your own practice.

This is an incredibly rare chance to study Mitsuro Hikime in depth with a tutor who balances tradition, experimentation, and contemporary design.

Can I do this class?

This masterclass is perfect for jewellers and makers with some bench experience who want to explore wax in a more sculptural, expressive way. You don’t need to be a wax specialist as Lorna will take you through everything step by step, but basic metalworking knowledge will help you get the most out of Day 2.

If you’re unsure whether this workshop is right for your skill level, feel free to ask, we’re always happy to guide you.

What happens?

Day One – Sculpting Mitsuro Wax

You begin by exploring the origins and qualities of Mitsuro Hikime. Lorna introduces the materials, ingredients and techniques before showing you how to:

• Make your own Mitsuro

• Condition and store the wax

• Pull long, even wax wires

• Form rings [both closed and open]

• Create dynamic freeforms such as pendants or earrings

• Join pulled wax pieces to build layered, sculptural structures

Throughout the day you’ll work on multiple exercises, pushing the material and discovering its possibilities. At the end of the session, Lorna shows you how to safely package and store your wax pieces, and you’ll take all your Mitsuro wax work home in a protective box you prepare in class.

Please note: Wax pieces made on Day One are not cast during this workshop. They are yours to keep, experiment with further, or cast at a later date.

Day Two – Refining Mitsuro in Metal

On Day Two you’ll work exclusively with three pre-cast Mitsuro rings provided for the class. These give you the chance to focus entirely on metal finishing, surface quality and contemporary refinement.

Together, you’ll learn how to:

• Clean up Mitsuro castings

• Use burrs and tools to recreate or enhance texture

• Apply depletion gilding and polishing techniques

• Mix finishes for contrast and visual depth

• Add dynamic elements to break up texture

• Incorporate features such as bars or stone settings

You’ll complete a series of structured exercises to explore possibilities:

• Cutting into a ring and adding a bar for future stone-setting

• Opening a band and adding a tube setting

• A creative free-play challenge: reinterpreting a ring in a contemporary way

You will finish the session with one beautifully refined Mitsuro ring to take home.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring along any sketches or ideas you’d like to explore, and feel free to bring your favourite hand tools if you enjoy working with them. All essential tools and materials, including your pre-cast rings, are provided.

Please tie long hair back, avoid open-toed shoes, and keep loose clothing to a minimum for safety.

Who is teaching me?

We’re thrilled to welcome back Lorna Romanenghi, an Anglo-Italian goldsmith who played a major role in the life of Vanilla Ink CIC before returning to Italy in 2024.

Trained by our very own Scott McIntyre and holding an Honours degree from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, Lorna blends solid bench skills with an experimental, contemporary approach. She has a particular passion for expressive techniques including Mitsuro Hikime, Keum-boo and titanium colouration.

At Vanilla Ink, Lorna’s journey took her from Jeweller in Residence to Workshop Manager and eventually Director. Her teaching is hands-on, encouraging and deeply responsive, giving you both expert guidance and the freedom to explore your own creative direction.

We’re absolutely delighted to have her back in the studio to teach this exceptional class.

The details

🔨 Full weekend course
🕑 10am – 6pm daily [includes a 1-hour lunch break, 1pm – 2pm]
📅 Choose your date from the dropdown below

Why book with Vanilla Ink CIC?

Vanilla Ink CIC is a Community Interest Company, meaning every class you take supports creative programmes for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities across Scotland. When you book a class, you’re helping us educate, inspire, and empower through jewellery making.

All prices are inclusive of VAT
Students must be 16+ years
Good eyesight and hand dexterity is essential
Please read our full Ts & Cs and Cancellation Policies before booking

Vanilla Ink CIC
60 Brook Street
Glasgow
G40 2AB