Give me the info

If only everything was as easy to set as a round stone, eh? Using a lovely, sharp setting burr to cut a nice, round seat for your nice round stone. Drop it in, get the metal over, go ahead and finish. Aaahh, bliss. But it ain’t all plain sailing with shaped stones!

There’s just something about being able to set shaped stones that is just so satisfying. But it really is a completely different ball game to setting rounds, as there ain’t no lovely sharp burr where we’re going. Hell, no. This is all done with your fair hands, using a wide variety of tools and techniques. This is proper old school, harking back to the days before everyone grew up with electric drills and pre-made burrs!

This is proper, hand-made jewellery, skillfully cut out to the most accurate of margins and set to immaculate precision. There’s no hiding place here and an error can cause a fair bit of damage… but that’s all part of learning, innit? And apart from all of that, it’s FUN!

Can I do this class?

Please note that you need to have a damn good understanding of jewellery making. Knowledge of pretty much all bench techniques is required here. You’ll definitely need good pendant motor control, be used to drilling and burring, and have a fair bit of experience using scorpers. This weekend is for jewellers who have already completed at least our Intermediate Stone Setting [flush and pavé] or equivalent. If you have any questions or want to know where your current skills lie, please don’t hesitate to ask!

What happens?

Build and set a double gallery setting for a marquise stone

Build and set a bezel setting for a pear shape

Build and set a semi-rubover octagon

Please note that this class also teaches you mount making alongside the setting of the stones. You’ll learn to hand make the settings as well as how to secure them and make them look pretty!

The thing about corners is that once you’ve done it, that’s it… you know how to set corners. We’ve designed this class to show you how to set shapes in the most common styles of setting. Take your knowledge of bezel setting a pear shape and transfer it to squares, trilliants etc. Every corner is just about the same. Fragile but beautiful, like Scott.

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 includes metal and stones. You will each have your own bench where we have access to all of our essential stone setting 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 over 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 course

30th & 31st August

10am - 6pm

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

Choose which session you’d like from the drop-down menu 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 a must
Please read our full Terms and Conditions before booking

Vanilla Ink CIC
60 Brook Street
Glasgow
G40 2AB