Give me the info

Do you want to learn to wax carve? The answer to that question is always “YES”! Carving is an essential skill on the road to becoming a complete goldsmith. It is cheap, forgiving, and a great way to improve both design and manufacture.

However, it is a particularly hard skill to master. The tools used are far more coarse, while the material is softer, more pliable, and easier to break. It has both its advantages and disadvantages. But it opens up avenues that don’t exist when working with metal alone.

In this class, you will be shown the basics of wax carving and shown how to work with the material and its tools and come away with a good understanding and the beginnings of your own 'style.'

But please don’t think you’ll pick this up overnight or without copious practice. An advanced skill such as wax carving requires a great deal of dedication, patience and hard graft.

Can I do this class?

Do you scroll through your socials wondering just how the hell some of these jewellers make their beautiful creations? Well, it’s probably that they’re carved out of wax! Come join us…

But please note that you need to have a good understanding of jewellery making. Knowledge of basic jewellery techniques is required. Skills such as filing and saw piercing are essential to take this course. This is for people with little, basic or no knowledge of wax carving. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask.

What happens?

Day 1:

• Carve a flat wedding band to precise measurements

• Carve a fitted wedding band using two completely different techniques

Day 2:

• Learn how to build up, correct mistakes and granulate

• Carve a specific design using learned techniques

• Create your own design

As you can see, Day One focuses on the technical side whereas on Day Two we get a little bit more creative! Both aspects of wax carving are as important as each other. We use everyday tasks that you would come across in a commercial basis to teach you, which will hopefully become useful to you.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring a sketchbook or similar for taking notes. Please note that glasses/optivisors are very much 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 includes all the wax you will need. You will each have your own bench where you’ll have access to all of our essential carving tools but do feel free to bring your own if you are more comfortable.

Who is teaching me?

Scott McIntyre is a Master Goldsmith and Setter as well as being a Founding Director of Vanilla Ink CIC. With nearly 30 years of experience in the industry, there isn’t much Scott doesn’t know! After years of working in high-end workshops across Scotland’s Central Belt, he found his calling as a naturally gifted tutor.

Scott has a wonderful ability to connect with his students, making sure everyone feels at ease to learn in the perfect environment. His abilities, patience and top-class patter are famous, as is his love of a fine playlist [prepare for a musical journey]. He is thorough, deliberate and professional. Nobody ever leaves one of Scott’s classes disappointed.

Dates, times and everything else

Full weekend class

28 & 29 /9/24

10am - 6pm daily

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

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 a must
Please read our full Terms and Conditions before booking

Vanilla Ink CIC
60 Brook Street
Glasgow
G40 2AB