Jewellery: raising repousee and fold-forming

What is the course about?

The course is an introduction to forming metal using punches and chasing tools. This is done on a supporting bed of pitch which the metal is mounted in. A broad faced hammer with a spring handle is then used to push or depress the metal into the form desired. Through forming and turning the metal intricate, designs can be achieved which can then be pierced out and finished off using a variety of methods.

What will we cover?

- Metal preparation and mounting in pitch.
- Pitch preparation
- Punch tools and hammers and their function in the process
- Tool adaptation
- Surface texture
- Cleaning and finishing.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Prepare pitch to embed metal into the surface
- Use punches and chasing tools to create decorative patterns
- fold-form metal to create 3-dimensional forms
- Clean and finish your samples.

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

This course is suitable for complete beginners as well as jewellery students wishing to push their creativity by working with a new technique.
You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and for 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.

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

Through practical demonstrations, discussions and handouts. You will be taught as a group and there will be plenty of 1:1 help. It will not be necessary to do any work outside the class, but students will benefit from bringing ideas with them on the day.

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

Whilst you can be spontaneous with a design on the day, it is good practise to have two or three different ideas ready and be prepared to adapt these to suit the technique.
Tools and equipment: City Lit provides almost all the basic tools and equipment you will need. If you have any punches or chasing tools, bring them along and we can suggest adaptations to add to your tool kit.
Materials: City Lit will also provide basic materials in reasonable quantities, eg copper sheet and basic consumables.
Students wishing to work in silver should bring sterling silver sheet approximately 1mm thick. You will be given advise for this in your first session.
For health and safety, please bring your own apron and safety glasses to each session.

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

City Lit offer a wide range of short and year-long courses in Jewellery design and making, from beginners to advanced, and for professional development.

Browse our current offer online for complemtary courses.