Tell me about it

Welcome to the world of engraving! This is a tricky, but incredibly pleasing skill to learn. From simple ring engraving to complex patterns, learning this technique will allow you to add several new dimensions to your designs and creations.

It’s one of those skills that is as old as making jewellery itself, with not a great deal changing in all that time! And you’ll be taught by a true master of their craft. Pay attention to his tutorials before having a go yourself! You’ll be given plenty of time to give each technique a go and check that you’re doing the right thing.

Can I do this class?

Please note that you need to have a good understanding of jewellery making. A wide and varied knowledge of jewellery techniques is required. Unfortunately, this is not a class for absolute beginners, but if you’ve been making jewellery for a little while and have basic bench skills, you should be able to give this a go. But also, it’s not solely for professional jewellers. Don’t let that put you off. If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to ask!

What happens?

Day 1:

The first day will be focused mainly on repetitive exercise, understanding how to create consistency with the lines and to familiarise yourself with all the different aspects of this ancient art. As you progress things turn a little more technical, with full demonstrations given on the geometry of the tools and how to sharpen them. You’ll receive a technical drawing that contains instructions on how to create your very own sharpening jig! Towards the end of the day, we will have a brainstorming session that will allow you to choose a design that you will focus on the next day.

Day 2:

After warming up again with some basic cut exercises, we will take a look at each of your designs and begin to transfer them on the copper plate. Before you start on the final design, you’ll have the opportunity to test different ways to obtain each effect and pattern, getting them right before going on to apply them on the final piece.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring a sketchbook or similar for taking notes. Please note that glasses/optivisors are advised for this class [get in touch if you’re unsure]. Please wear long hair tied up [or bring something to do so], don’t wear open-toed shoes and keep loose-fitting clothing to a minimum.

We will provide all materials, which include metal and stones. You will each have your own space where we have access to all of our essential tools but do feel free to bring your own if you are more comfortable.

Who is teaching me?

Dario Batzella is a graduate of Scuola dell'Arte della Medaglia [School of Art of Medals] in Rome, Italy. He graduated in 2015 and is now a full-time engraver based in Edinburgh. In 2019 Dario won the Silver Award in the Senior Engravers category at the Goldsmiths Awards in London, and in 2023, added two Bronze awards to his collection in the Senior Small Mechanism Design and Craft. In 2022, he was responsible for designing the Cuttitta Cup, which since then has been played for in every Six Nations Rugby games between Scotland and Italy.

Alongside his silversmithing and engraving talents, Dario is a skilled trained blacksmith, sword maker and knife maker. As a teacher of engraving he specialises in enabling his students to learn the process of hand engraving from the geometry of the tools and how they are sharpened, to the basic lines that are the main core of any engraving. Moving then to approaching different techniques like: Intaglio for printmaking, decorative patterns, lettering, focusing on what are the interests of the student for tailored the learning process to his/her needs.

The details

Full weekend class

10am - 6pm

<<We always take a 1-hour lunch between 1pm - 2pm>>

Choose your date from the drop down box below

We are a Community Interest Company who are beyond profit. Each time you buy a class from us, the money is invested in our social enterprise programmes. We aim to create a variety of sessions aimed at the most vulnerable, disadvantaged or deserving in society to give a sense of purpose and help them feel connected to those within their community. Our goal is to promote social engagement and support cultural enhancement. We believe everyone should get the opportunity to experience 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