Metal Forming: Copper Leaves and Pods

July 22, 10 am-5 pm.

Learn some basic metal manipulation techniques that will give metalwork dimension and drama. Students will learn how to strike metal to create different forms and how to take a flat piece of copper and turn it into a voluminous shape. The focus will be on creating leaves of different shapes/sizes and pods that range from canoe to curling shapes, creating several pieces for jewelry or incorporation into other works. With copper, there are practically limitless options for color on finished pieces, with either a torch to create a rainbow of color, or a chemical dip to create a deep brown or blue color. Pieces may also be shined up to bright rosy copper. 

All materials are provided to make several pendants and one pair of earrings. You will have extra metal to create additional pieces for use as décor or jewelry.  You must bring a steel block to reduce sharing time. It can be any size – 4×4 inches is the most common size but even small anvils are fine for this technique. If you have a cross-peen or riveting hammer, bring that as well. Texture tools, specialty hammers, files, and shears will be shared, but you are welcome to bring them if you have them.

Tools can be purchased directly from the instructor at class time as well (steel block $21.99 + tax/credit card preferred). $85 MBG Members/$95 Non-Members. Click to register by noon on July 20.