Tell me about it

A three day practical course on granulation and chemical soldering, showing how a fascinating historic technique is relevant today, and how it can be applied to contemporary jewellery.

We begin the course with a brief overview of granulation, including history and the theory of soldering, quickly moving on to making granules and constructing samples in silver, with the option of progressing onto 18ct or 22ct gold [if and when the students feel ready]. All students will complete a range of samples to take home and some students may complete a small piece such as a pendant or pair of earrings. There will be plenty of one to one tuition, opportunities to ask questions, and sharing with fellow students.

You will be provided with silver to make samples, and a charcoal block, paintbrush and bottle of fusing liquid to take home.

Can I do this class?

The skill level required for this class is beginner to advanced. Although familiarity with basic tools and jewellery making skills is helpful, it is not absolutely essential. You will need good eyesight or good glasses, alongside a steady hand and patience.

What happens?

Day One:

A presentation explaining what makes granulation so special, including history and explanations of the different ways of approaching granulation with historic and contemporary illustrations. Then prepare your materials in sheet and wire. Size is important!

Learn how to make two different types of granules on a charcoal block, odd sizes and even. Then learn how to fix your granules in place with a chemical soldering solution.

Day Two:

Learn how to apply granules in 4 different ways - Point / Linear / Field / Cluster.

Adding in other decorative elements such as sheet and wire, then in the afternoon, students can progress to working in gold or continue to experiment in silver.

Day Three:

By this stage students will have some ideas they would like to develop, and will select the best and most relevant samples to make finished pieces.

To finish, a class discussion picking out most important lessons learned and how students can continue to practise granulation technique in their studios.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring a sketchbook or similar for taking notes. Please note that glasses/optivisors are advised for this class due to the close up nature of the work [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 a starter pack of materials, which will be made of Britannia silver. After discussions with Linda on Friday morning, you will be able to order 22ct gold from Cooksons for next day delivery.

You will each have your own bench 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?

Linda Lewin is an artist-jeweller, based in the Scottish borders. She trained in Sheffield and has more than forty years experience making commission work, exhibiting with galleries and teaching students from her studio. At the turn of the century, she studied ancient jewellery techniques, including chain making and granulation in 22ct gold in New York. This experience changed the way she approaches her work with metal, feeling empowered to be part of a continuing jewellery making tradition going back thousands of years.

Linda sees granulation as a way of holding hands with our ancestors.

The details

Three day class

Fri 30th May - Sun 1st June

10am - 5pm

<< We will pause for lunch at 1pm >>

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