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Tell me about it

Do you want to learn to wax carve? The answer is always YES! Wax carving is an essential step on the road to becoming a complete goldsmith, as it’s affordable, forgiving, and a brilliant way to develop both your design thinking and technical skill.

In this two-day Pro Class at Vanilla Ink CIC in Glasgow, you’ll learn the fundamentals of carving, shaping, and building with wax. It’s a hands-on introduction to a material that behaves completely differently from metal - softer, more flexible, but bursting with creative potential. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll understand why so many jewellers swear by it.

Can I do this class?

If you’ve ever scrolled through social media wondering how makers achieve those perfect shapes and textures… well, this is how!

This course is ideal for jewellers with a basic foundation in bench skills [saw piercing, filing, soldering] or are new to wax carving. You don’t need prior carving experience, just curiosity and a steady hand. If you’re unsure where your skills fit, just get in touch and we’ll point you in the right direction.

What happens?

Day 1 – Technical Foundations

• Carve flat wedding bands to precise measurements

• Carve fitted wedding bands using different techniques

Day 2 – Creative Exploration

• Build up wax, correct mistakes, and experiment with granulation

• Carve a design using your new techniques

• Develop your own original piece and go wild with it!

Day One focuses on accuracy and control, while Day Two lets your creativity loose. You’ll leave with the confidence to design, sculpt, and refine your own wax pieces, skills that translate directly to professional jewellery making.

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.

The details

🔨 Full weekend course
🕑 10am – 6pm daily [includes a 1-hour lunch break, 1pm – 2pm]
📅 29th & 30th August

Why book with Vanilla Ink CIC?

Vanilla Ink CIC is a Community Interest Company supporting jewellers at every stage of their creative journey. Every class you book helps fund community programmes that use jewellery making to educate, inspire and empower across Scotland.

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

Wedding rings are one of the most significant decisions you will make when it comes to getting married. There are so many options to choose from which can make the process stressful and unenjoyable. Why not cut out the tension by taking control and creating your own wedding rings?

The process is empowering and will ensure life-long memories of this special time in your life. What better way to make your marriage even more special than making your own rings?

We make the session relaxed and intimate by having the workshop to yourselves. The class takes approximately 3 hours, where we provide an Afternoon Tea! We also capture the session and produce a photo book so you always have a constant reminder of your special day.

THE COST

The day itself costs £350 per couple [not per person] which includes lunch, a bottle of nice fizz to celebrate the completed rings upon collection, the photo book, wedding ring boxes, as well as all tools and equipment. The cost of your chosen material is then added to the class cost.

THE MATERIALS

Material costs can vary depending on your needs but we will discuss your options and pricing prior to the day. We will get you in for an appointment where we can fine-tune your demands and create a better picture of what you would like. Once you have purchased the session, please contact us with regards to the next step. You also have the option to up-cycle your own metal, using sentimental materials rather than brand new. If you decide to use sentimental materials please bring these along to your consultation. You have a choice of making your rings in the following materials:

• Silver

• 9ct Yellow, White Gold & Rose Gold

• 14ct Yellow, White Gold & Rose Gold

• 18ct Yellow, White Gold & Rose Gold

• Platinum

Please note, for all gold alloys and platinum, you will create a master pattern of your ring in silver, which is then cast in your chosen material. This way, there is no fear of messing up on the day… we’ve got your back!

To help you gauge the cost of materials we have provided approximate costs of a classic ‘court shaped’ wedding band at 3mm and 5mm.

< please note that these costs are subject to change based on the size, width, design and weight of the ring >

The figures indicated below includes the price of material plus casting costs

Prices were updated in February 2026 and are liable to change

3mm court shape wedding band size M

• Silver £195

• 9ct white gold £597

• 18ct yellow gold £1119

• Platinum £1405

5mm court shape wedding band size S

• Silver £335

• 9ct white gold £1282

• 18ct yellow gold £2399

• Platinum £2915

Please note that due to the current climate, the increase in the price of palladium has skyrocketed, leading it to be essentially cost out of the market.

Should you require a palladium ring, please contact us and we will be happy to help.

We provide detailed and thorough quotes for you to sign off before any metals are ordered. There are no hidden costs and no surprises added on without your prior knowledge.

EXTRAS

There are things that you can add to your rings at an extra cost, including:

• Engraving from £25

• Stone Setting from £25

Please get in touch if you would like to make your wedding rings. We always try our best to make this a very special occasion for you. We can run workshops at any time of the week and can be flexible to suit your needs. Adding extras can add 1 - 2 weeks to the delivery of the rings depending on the request.

Please note that due to UK law, we will have to send your rings for hallmarking. This cost comes out at £30 per item.

MORE INFO

Please note that precious materials fluctuate in price daily and you will be given the exact price upon receipt of purchase of the materials.

WHO IS THIS FOR?

This class is designed for complete beginners. You do not need to have any prior knowledge of jewellery making, we take you through every step of the way.

Vanilla Ink CIC
60 Brook Street
Glasgow
G40 2AB

Give me the info

A sculptural wax and metal finishing masterclass with Lorna Romanenghi.

Mitsuro Hikime is a mesmerising wax technique known for its flowing, organic lines and the way it captures movement in a way no other method can. In The Art of Mitsuro, you’ll dive deep into this ancient process, learning to make and shape your own wax, explore expressive forms, and understand how Mitsuro translates into finished metal jewellery.

Over two days with artist and goldsmith Lorna Romanenghi, you’ll experiment widely, play with material, develop technical skill, and learn how to elevate Mitsuro forms once cast. You’ll leave with a beautifully finished ring, a box of your own sculptural wax pieces, and the knowledge to keep pushing the technique in your own practice.

This is an incredibly rare chance to study Mitsuro Hikime in depth with a tutor who balances tradition, experimentation, and contemporary design.

Can I do this class?

This masterclass is perfect for jewellers and makers with some bench experience who want to explore wax in a more sculptural, expressive way. You don’t need to be a wax specialist as Lorna will take you through everything step by step, but basic metalworking knowledge will help you get the most out of Day 2.

If you’re unsure whether this workshop is right for your skill level, feel free to ask, we’re always happy to guide you.

What happens?

Day One – Sculpting Mitsuro Wax

You begin by exploring the origins and qualities of Mitsuro Hikime. Lorna introduces the materials, ingredients and techniques before showing you how to:

• Make your own Mitsuro

• Condition and store the wax

• Pull long, even wax wires

• Form rings [both closed and open]

• Create dynamic freeforms such as pendants or earrings

• Join pulled wax pieces to build layered, sculptural structures

Throughout the day you’ll work on multiple exercises, pushing the material and discovering its possibilities. At the end of the session, Lorna shows you how to safely package and store your wax pieces, and you’ll take all your Mitsuro wax work home in a protective box you prepare in class.

Please note: Wax pieces made on Day One are not cast during this workshop. They are yours to keep, experiment with further, or cast at a later date.

Day Two – Refining Mitsuro in Metal

On Day Two you’ll work exclusively with three pre-cast Mitsuro rings provided for the class. These give you the chance to focus entirely on metal finishing, surface quality and contemporary refinement.

Together, you’ll learn how to:

• Clean up Mitsuro castings

• Use burrs and tools to recreate or enhance texture

• Apply depletion gilding and polishing techniques

• Mix finishes for contrast and visual depth

• Add dynamic elements to break up texture

• Incorporate features such as bars or stone settings

You’ll complete a series of structured exercises to explore possibilities:

• Cutting into a ring and adding a bar for future stone-setting

• Opening a band and adding a tube setting

• A creative free-play challenge: reinterpreting a ring in a contemporary way

You will finish the session with one beautifully refined Mitsuro ring to take home.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring along any sketches or ideas you’d like to explore, and feel free to bring your favourite hand tools if you enjoy working with them. All essential tools and materials, including your pre-cast rings, are provided.

Please tie long hair back, avoid open-toed shoes, and keep loose clothing to a minimum for safety.

Who is teaching me?

We’re thrilled to welcome back Lorna Romanenghi, an Anglo-Italian goldsmith who played a major role in the life of Vanilla Ink CIC before returning to Italy in 2024.

Trained by our very own Scott McIntyre and holding an Honours degree from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, Lorna blends solid bench skills with an experimental, contemporary approach. She has a particular passion for expressive techniques including Mitsuro Hikime, Keum-boo and titanium colouration.

At Vanilla Ink, Lorna’s journey took her from Jeweller in Residence to Workshop Manager and eventually Director. Her teaching is hands-on, encouraging and deeply responsive, giving you both expert guidance and the freedom to explore your own creative direction.

We’re absolutely delighted to have her back in the studio to teach this exceptional class.

The details

🔨 Full weekend course
🕑 10am – 6pm daily [includes a 1-hour lunch break, 1pm – 2pm]
📅 3rd & 4th October

Why book with Vanilla Ink CIC?

Vanilla Ink CIC is a Community Interest Company, meaning every class you take supports creative programmes for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities across Scotland. When you book a class, you’re helping us educate, inspire, and empower through 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

Tell me about it

There’s something special about a locket. It’s a classic piece of jewellery that’s designed to hold meaning, memory, and story.

In this class at Vanilla Ink CIC in Glasgow, you’ll learn how to create your own fully functioning locket pendant from scratch, with the option to work in copper or silver, depending on your preference and budget. From forming the domed halves to constructing a working hinge and closure, this class takes you through the complete process of making a beautifully engineered, heirloom-quality piece.

You’ll explore precision forming, clean soldering, and thoughtful finishing, combining technical skill with design sensitivity. Whether you keep it minimal or add your own personal touch, you’ll leave with a piece that’s entirely yours, inside and out

Can I do this class?

This class is ideal for confident makers who already have a good grasp of core bench skills like soldering, filing, and forming. Unfortunately, it’s not for newbies. If you’ve taken a few of our Block or even Pro classes and are ready for a more involved, multi-stage project, you’ll be right at home here.

It’s a rewarding build that brings together lots of techniques. Let us guide you through each stage so you can approach it with confidence and leave with something properly special.

What happens?

You’ll learn how to:

• Form domed shapes for the front and back of your locket

• Construct and align a working hinge

• Create a secure and satisfying closure

• Solder cleanly across multiple stages

• Refine and finish your piece to a professional standard

This is a process-led class where accuracy and patience pay off, and the result is a fully functioning locket pendant you’ll be proud to wear or gift.

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring a sketchbook for notes or design ideas. All materials and tools are provided, and you’ll have your own fully equipped bench.

Please tie back long hair, avoid open-toed shoes, and wear fitted clothing. Glasses or optivisors are recommended as this is detailed, precision work.

Want to be prepared? Check out our Tool Kits that cover everything you’ll need for this class!

The details

🔨 Full weekend course
🕑 10am - 6pm [we take a one-hour lunch break between 1pm – 2pm]
📅 Sat 17th & Sun 18th October

⚒️ Choose your material from the drop down box below

Why book with Vanilla Ink CIC?

Vanilla Ink CIC is a Community Interest Company that supports jewellers at every stage of their creative journey. Every class you take helps us deliver programmes for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities across Scotland, empowering others through craft while you level up your own skills.

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

Tell me about it

Ready to step into the world of stone setting? This two-day Pro Class at Vanilla Ink CIC in Glasgow is designed to give you the perfect foundation in setting techniques, starting with the classics: claw and bezel.

We’ll guide you through each process step-by-step, combining mount making with setting, because understanding both is what truly makes a skilled jeweller. The leap from jeweller to setter might sound big, but it’s absolutely within your reach, and we’ll show you how to make it with confidence.

Can I do this class?

If you can already make jewellery but avoid stones because they seem mysterious [or expensive to mess up!], then this class is for you. It’s ideal for jewellers with a solid grasp of basic bench skills like soldering, filing, and saw-piercing, but little to no experience in stone setting.

We’ll start from the beginning, explaining tools, techniques, and theory before you get hands-on. Unsure if you’re ready? Just get in touch and we’ll help you find the best fit for your skill level.

What happens?

Day 1 – Bezel Setting

• Set a round stone into a pre-formed tube

• Create a bezel setting for a cabochon stone, solder to a backplate, and set the stone

• Make and set using the heavy-bezel style

Day 2 – Claw Setting

• Create and set a scalloped claw from tapered tube for a round stone

• Build and set a four-claw double-gallery setting

By the end of the weekend, you’ll have a solid grounding in entry-level setting skills and the confidence to keep developing your technique. We’ll give you all the knowledge you need, then it’s over to you to keep practising [and trust us, you’ll want to].

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 include 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.

The details

🔨 Full weekend course
🕑 10am – 6pm daily [includes a 1-hour lunch break, 1pm – 2pm]
📅 5th & 6th September 2026

Why book with Vanilla Ink CIC?

Vanilla Ink CIC is a Community Interest Company dedicated to supporting jewellers at every stage of their creative journey. Every Pro Class you take helps fund creative programmes for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities across Scotland, passing on skills, confidence, and connection through craft.

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