Give me the info

Okay, time to step things up a bit! It’s time to combine the two best things about being a goldsmith - stone setting and wax carving! The benefits of being able to create, position and set up wax carvings ready to be set are huge. Think about it, would you rather drill through platinum or wax? Simple! Technically, this should be called ’The Set Up of Setting in Wax’ as we simply can’t treat it the same way as we do with metal. But that’s not a snappy name and it takes too long to say!

The majority of this weekend looks at the benefits of setting up everything in a far more forgiving and easier to work with material. If you mark and drill incorrectly in metal, it can have quite dismal consequences, but with wax, it matters less as the fix is quick and cheap. Similarly, if you are creating a full eternity ring, for example, and are drilling and seating for 25 stones around a band, thats a lot of metal dust to be falling into your bench skin and losing value immediately. Why don’t we set up everything before we send for casting, and the hard part is done in not only an easier way, but it saves money too.

Can I do this class?

Please note that you need to have a good understanding of jewellery making to take this class. Knowledge of pretty much most jewellery bench techniques is required and you’ll need to be a competent setter. This is for jewellers who have already completed our Intermediate Stone Setting and our Intro to Wax Carving or have the equivalent experience. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask and we’ll point you in the right direction.

What happens?

• Super big claw setting from solid wax

• Multiple stone claw setting using wax wires

• Bezel setting from solid wax

• Bezel setting incorporated into a ring

• Flush setting and reducing metal weights

• Pave setting [one of the best examples of why we set up setting in wax]

• Theory of casting with stones in place [we’ll play about with this too!]

Stone setting with wax is a tricky and advanced technique that will lead to the further development of your core skills and technical ability. Time and money can be saved once you invest in these techniques, it is well worth it!

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring a sketchbook or similar for taking notes. Please note that glasses/optivisors are mandatory 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 all wax and stones. You will each have your own bench where we have access to all of our essential stone setting and carving tools but do feel free to bring your own if you are more comfortable.

Dates, times and everything else

Full weekend class

20th & 21st September

10am - 6pm daily

<< we always take a 1-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 essential
Please read our full Ts & Cs and Cancellation Policies before booking

Vanilla Ink CIC
60 Brook Street
Glasgow
G40 2AB