Wax carving for jewellery makers

Learn how to cut and form wax to create your own design from which a cast can be made in silver, gold or brass. The casting process itself is arranged off-site and the object returned for finishing and polishing. No previous experience necessary. Basic materials provided. Cost of casting not included.

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Key course information

Dates
17/06/12 - 01/07/12

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
3 weeks

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £150^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
VV855

Availability
Available
(status updated every 15 mins)

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

Enrol now

Call enrolments: 020 7831 7831

Still got questions?

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2700

Course outline

What is the course about?

The course is designed for those who would like to explore the exciting possibilities of wax carving.

What topics will we cover?

The course will begin with an introduction to the workshop facilities and the safe use of the equipment. The tutor will demonstrate and introduce wax carving and how it is created. You will be encouraged to develop your ideas and designs, exploring the possibilities through drawing and working directly with the wax. These carvings will be cast off-site after the second week and returned on the third week to clean and polish. This will be demonstrated but final finishing will be dependent upon the speed at which you are able to work .You will need to pay for your castings, which will be produced in silver.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

• understand the possibilities of wax carving
• develop a suitable design
• carve your design in wax
• finish the cast piece.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is suitable for all abilities, from beginners to experienced makers who wish to improve their technique. If you have no jewellery experience, it is important to recognise that the tutor will not be able to teach you soldering skills. You will be encouraged to design pieces that do not need this technique and advised of further courses to learn additional key skills.

You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion. You should be able to use numbers and be able to do simple measurements and calculations.

Please look at the rest of the course outline carefully to decide if you may benefit from support in your English and Maths skills to help you to take part fully in this class.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Through demonstration, advice and guidance, photographic examples of jewellery and technical notes, as appropriate.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

General tools and equipment will be supplied. Basic wax carving materials are covered by the course fee, except where larger and multiple items are being made, in which case you may need to purchase additional wax. The tutor will advise you where it is available.

You will need to pay for the casting(s), the cost of which will depend on the amount of carvings produced and their metal weight.

You will need to bring a sketchbook and drawing materials to the first class, and it is a good idea to bring an apron.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

City Lit runs a number of other specific metal classes, both vocational and non-vocational. These will enable you to further broaden your skills. Beginners can go on to learn soldering skills in order to complete a complex design if desired.

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

Please email us for advice or call us during these times:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00

Thursdays - 9.00-12.00

Saturdays - 14.00-17.00

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Visual arts

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

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