MS 100 - Traditional Metalsmithing

An ideal complement to the finishing techniques learned throughout the Metal Clay fabrication courses, students understand processes and observe the proper applications of techniques ranging from rolling, sawing and forming metals to soldering and repousse. Throughout the course, relevant safety precautions are stressed and metallurgical observations made. Students then are guided to reproduce these steps via a series of mini-projects that accentuate their design and fabrication portfolio.

Lessons in this course of study include:

MS101 - Making and Rolling Sheet Metal

Most jewellery projects begin with a raw material that must be rolled into usable sheets of consistent thicknesses. The effects of repeated rolling are understood and common techniques to produce usable, even and malleable metal sheets are practised.

MS102 - Forming and Drawing Wire

As with rolling sheets, the production of wire is explained and exercised. Students learn how wire hardness is increased through drawing and how to treat hardened metals to regain their softness.

MS103 - Sawing and Drilling Techniques

Sawing and drilling are the most essential processes used by any metalsmith; students learn how to saw and drill effectively and cleanly with minimal waste. Accurate drilling using hand tools & power tools is covered.

MS104 - Roll Printing, Chasing and Repoussé

Controlling small steel tools called punches to shape metal from the front and back sides requires skill and patience. Students learn the variety of repoussé and matting punches available and when each is indicated.

MS105 - Annealing and Reticulation Procedures

Often before working metals, they need to be softened using a process called annealing. Annealing temperatures and quenching are understood. Reticulation as a means of creating a textured appearance on the metal is also practised.

MS106 - Soldering and Fusing

Attaching metals together is commonly achieved using solder. Gas torch soldering is practised and metal and solder compatibilities are understood. Students also learn fusing, the process of bonding metals together at melting point without solder.

MS107 - Cold Joining, Mechanisms and Chains

Many mechanisms and joints require movement and thus cannot be soldered or fused. Students learn common cold joining techniques to produce catches and joints by rivetting. When full movement is required, students make use of hinges and universal joints.

MS108 - Stone Setting

Students learn simple bezel stone setting styles as used with traditional materials and understand the techniques and workmanship required for more complex stone setting methods. By observing master stone setting processes, students understand the challenges of channel, flush and pave settings and common uses of various setting styles.

MC109 - Direct and Lost Wax Casting

Direct casting has been used for millennia. Students understand the process as it was used in the past. More modern methods such as wax carving are then covered as is the lost wax casting process. *Students do not perform lost wax casts themselves in this module, but understand the toold and techniques used in the industry for mass customization and mass production.

MS110 - Quality Control and Finishing Techniques

Students learn various methods for hand and electronic finishing of jewellery and practice systematic procedures that ensure complete polishing, reflective shines and smooth finishes. Different methods are covered with correct order of use to ensure a professional finish.

Really Interested in Metalsmithing??

Visit the Metalsmithing Section of the JDMIS Online Community!