Jewelry: Introduction (Saturday)
Adult Class | Available
This course is designed to introduce you to a variety of technical processes, design concepts, and tools essential for understanding and working with non-ferrous metals (such as copper, brass, and silver) on a wearable scale. Attention is given to material sourcing, the production and critique of metalwork, and the cultural and historical aspects of jewelry as artistic expression. Some basic techniques that will be covered include sawing, filing, simple forming, hammer texture, electrolytic etching, soldering, cabochon stone setting, and finishing.
What You Will Learn:
- A cultural history of jewelry and small-scale metals
- Design concepts as they pertain to wearable and decorative metals
- Working with specialized tools
- Basic jewelry-making techniques
Accessibility Note: This studio is only accessible by stairs. For access needs or accommodations, contact adulteducation@fleisher.org.
- Recommended Local Jewelry & Metal Suppliers
- T.B. Hagstoz & Son Inc., 709 Sansom St, 215-922-1628, hagstoz.com
- Pamma Tools, 809 Samson St, 215-928-6004, pammatools.com
Recommended Online Jewelry & Metal Supplier
- Rio Grande, 1-800-545-6566, riogrande.com
All students should start the class with these supplies:
-Sketch Book with Drawing Utensils
-Sharpie Thick & Thin Tip in Black
-1 Dozen 2/0 Saw Blades
-6 inches of each of 20 gauge hard, medium, and easy silver wire solder
-1 sheet each of 220, 320, 400, and 600 grit silicon carbide wet/dry sandpaper
-20 gauge sheet metal in copper OR brass. If selecting one metal tone: 6x6 inches. - If selecting two metal tones: 3x6 inches of each (Hardness = dead-soft or soft preferred)
-1 foot of 16 gauge copper or brass wire (soft)
-#54 drill bit
-An old t-shirt or rag for drying metal
OPTIONAL: Do not purchase before the first class meeting! These materials will be determined by students designed projects!
-18 gauge sterling silver sheet (size determined by size of project)
-20 gauge sterling silver sheet metal (size determined by size of project)
-22 gauge sterling silver sheet (size determined by size of project)
-8-10 inches 26 gauge fine silver 6mm bezel wire
-6 inches of brass or copper wire in various gauges (size determined by size of project)
-1-2 round or oval cabochon cut gemstones (size determined by size of project)
Please note:
Studio fees help cover the ongoing cost of studio resources, including tools, equipment maintenance, gas, soldering materials, abrasives, and other supplies available for student use.
All metals are at your own expense. You are able to use copper, brass, or sterling silver in this class. Students should choose a metal that works best for their personal budgets (copper and brass tends to be more budget friendly). The use of gold should be discussed with your instructor prior to purchase. No nickel or steel is permitted in the Fleisher jewelry studio.
Sarah Montagnoli
Sarah Montagnoli is a jeweler, metalsmith, and educator based in Philadelphia, PA. She received her BFA from Moore College of Art & Design (2018) and moved on to pursue her MFA and Teaching Certification at Tyler School of Art & Architecture (2021). Since receiving her Masters, she has been teaching jewelry at Tyler School of Art & Architecture, Rowan University, Alloy Atelier, and Fleisher Art Memorial. Montagnoli creates whimsical jewelry objects, often mimicking toys or imaginary creatures, as well as dreamy earrings, rings, and pins in her production work. When not teaching or seated at her bench, she enjoys time with her cats, collecting small trinkets, and wandering in the rain.
sarahmontagnoli.com