Keum-boo (also Geumbu, Kum-Boo or Kum-bu, literally meaning "attached gold") is an ancient Korean gilding technique used to apply thin sheets of gold to silver, to make silver-gilt.

In this class, you will have the opportunity to learn this age-old technique and make a collection of beautiful, unique jewellery.

Can I do this class?

The art of Keum Boo is a great experience for both beginners and accomplished jewellers. Lots of jewellers simply want to add it to their skills and beginners like being wowed by how cool it is!

What happens?

When you learn the ancient craft of Keum Boo, saw piercing, soldering, roll printing, texturing and finishing. Each student will be given a piece of silver and gold leaf and will be encouraged to make a jewellery set through various techniques. This can be a pendant, earrings, or pin. You then use heat and pressure to fuse the gold onto the silver to make beautiful patterns and detail. It is EXTREMELY awesome.

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/keum-boo

Mitsuro Wax, or to give it its full name, Mitsuro Hikime, is an ancient Japanese wax making technique that creates a truly unique type of material. This hand-made wax creates beautiful ridges and wrinkles that mimic natural form. During the course of this Taster Experience, you will learn how to make Mitsuro Wax from scratch and then how to work it to create some beautiful items of jewellery.

While you may not be able to take home a finished piece of jewellery that very day, don’t worry! You will have a finished piece to show for it as we will cast your piece and send it to you as soon as it is ready!

The aim of this class is to:

• introduce you to this incredible material

• allow you the time to experiment with it

• give you all the resources and information you need to recreate this process

• have FUN!

Book Here: https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/mitsuro-wax

Like the idea of using sea glass found right here on the Banff shores? In this session, we are going to combine the beauty of found polished sea glass with the adventurous technique of sand casting. You will be gently guided through the wonderful but sometimes unpredictable technique of sand casting.

Choosing your sea glass, smash it up and cast it in silver! What could be more fun?

Choose to either bring your own found sea glass [if you don’t mind your finds being smashed up in the name of amazing jewellery making] or simply choose from some of the pieces we’ve found on Banff beach.

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/sand-cast-sea-glass

Tell me about it

Signet rings are on the comeback! But we don't want to give you the chance to make something plain and boring, we want to play with FIRE and be THRILLED by the process of creating your very own signet ring! And the best thing about this process is that the finish on your signet will be properly unique! Use the beautiful, natural texture and surface that sand casting creates and finish in a way that truly makes the ring your own.

Can I do this class?

Yes, you can do this class. Sand casting is one of those sessions that we can teach you, no matter if you're an absolute beginner or not. Once you're shown how, it's easy to pick up, plus we'll be here to help out and guide you to the best results.

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/sand-cast-signets

Tell me about it

A Taster Experience for learning the magic of enamelling! This exciting class offers the opportunity to experience the exciting and versatile medium of enamel through introductory techniques. Learn how to add colour and pattern to metal, opening up loads of opportunities for detail. With time to experiment and then create finished pieces using cold connections, you will leave with new skills and a fabulous unique set of jewellery of your own creation.

Can I do this class?

This class is for anyone who wants to learn about the many ways and possibilities that enamelling offers. You will have the opportunity to make test pieces to experiment with colour and to see how the firing process works, before working on a piece of your own design to complete with cold connection techniques. Your tutor will be on hand to demonstrate and support you throughout.

Book Now:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/enamel-jewellery

So, you’ve learned and practiced your silversmithing basics and got a grasp of how your metal can be shaped and formed… now let’s take it a few steps further. This course will build on the knowledge you have learned from the Introduction to Silversmithing and allow you to create more complex forms. Following the same format, you will learn three new techniques, each delivered across two sessions so that you can appreciate the time that goes into large scale making. You will be introduced to a greater selection of hammers [who knewthere were so many??] and taking metal so fine it’ll be thinner than foil! Whether you are a detailed engineer obsessed with precision, or someone who enjoys creating sculptural forms, you will love the evolutions this course provides you with.

This course runs once a week for six weeks.

Book Now: https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/further-silversmithing

Want to learn to make jewellery? You’ve come to the right place! Welcome to our new look introductory course. Our six-week block will allow you to learn the basics of making jewellery in consecutive weekly classes that each last three hours. The course caters for the straight-up novice, completely new to the industry and ready to begin their jewellery journey. Within this class, you will learn about the tools required for jewellery making as well as being shown how to use them in a safe and proper manner. You’ll be briefed on the techniques that are needed to get you through the beginnings of jewellery making.

This is a six week course, running once a week for six weeks,

Book Here;

https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/intro-core-jewellery

Tell me about it

So, you’ve ticked some boxes and now you want to add MORE the set. Of course you do! Welcome to the next level of our stone setting classes! But don’t be put off by stepping up, you’ve done it before and you’ll do it again! If you’ve had a go at pavé, there’s no reason why you can’t progress here.

Yes, it’s a bit more fiddly, but man it is sorewarding! Nothing beats that feeling of success after all that time and preparation. And the good thing is you’ll be taught these styles by a true Master Goldsmith and Setter, who will lead you through everything step by step until you fully understand what’s involved and are confident enough to get going!

Can I do this class?

Please note that you need to have a good understanding of jewellery making. Knowledge of pretty much all bench techniques is required here. You’ll definitely need good pendant motor control and be used to drilling and burring. This weekend is probably for jewellers who have already completed our Intermediate Stone Setting [flush and pavé] or equivalent. If you have any questions or want to know where your current skills lie, please don’t hesitate to ask!

Book Here: https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/castle-setting

Ever wanted to make your very own brand new sea glass ring? Well, now you can with our fantastic workshop that’s fast becoming our most popular class! You will learn how to choose the best sea glass for your design, make a bespoke setting then create a ring for it to go on! End the session by setting the sea glass and finishing it… woo hoo!

Choose to either bring your own found sea glass or simply choose from some of the pieces we’ve found on Banff Beach.

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/ring-sea-glass

Tell me about it

As we hurtle towards Autumn and eventually into Winter, we can turn our attention to those pretty leaves falling from the trees. In fact, they are pretty, aren't they? We should totally do a new class based around creating a beautiful leaf pendant! Right, that's it... you convinced us, let's do it!

Can I do this class?

Yep, this brand new class is for people brand new to jewellery making! Or maybe you're just excited to see a new class and fancy coming back for another go at being creative? No matter what skill level, this one's for you!

What happens?

You'll be introduced to the fantastic technique of roll printing, which will transfer the lovely leaf skeleton pattern onto your piece of silver. You'll then roll it again, this time with your chosen leaf template, which will show you where to saw pierce your shape. Follow the lines and saw it out nice and neat! You'll then either drill a hole for a jump ring, or solder it on top before choosing how to finish, and adding the chain.

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/leaf-pendant

Tell me about it

In this classic Taster Experience, you will make a silver spinner ring which is also known as a worry ring. You will be making not one, not two but THREE rings in this exciting class! A ring that will spin as you hop, skip or jump along the street!

Can I do this class?

Hell yeah you can! This is one of our classic entry-level Taster Experiences, so it doesn’t matter if you’ve never wielded a file or a saw before! Come join us in jewellery land!

What happens?

You will learn the basics of jewellery making while being taught to make this ring, which includes sawing, annealing, shaping, forming, soldering, dapping and finishing.

Do I need to bring anything?

You don’t need to bring anything with you as we will provide all the equipment and materials needed. Everyone will have their own bench with access to all the tools required to make the ring.

Please wear long hair tied up [or bring something to do so], don’t wear open-toed shoes and keep loose-fitting clothing to a minimum.

If you need glasses to see things close up, please bring them with you. Making jewellery is fiddly!

Book Here: https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/spinner-ring

You will learn how to work metal clay in its raw state to make creative and unique pieces of jewellery. You will get familiar with how the clay works and how to form, shape and refine it. You will also learn how to fire the clay and how to finish off, using different methods to bring out the best in your creations. Sounds awesome, I’m in!

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/silver-clay-jewellery

Tell me about it

Do you like making silver rings? How about making THREE?? We are too kind to you lot, as this class gives you the opportunity to create your very own set of three silver skinny stacking rings. Keep them all plain and shiny or have some twisted and oxidised… there are loads of possibilities to make your stack unique!

You’ll be shown the step-by-step process of how to create these fantastic pieces of jewellery, leaving you with the option of wearing them all or one at a time… how would you stack them?

Can I do this class?

This is one of our classic entry-level classes, so it’s perfect for complete beginners. Don’t worry if you’ve never done anything like this before, this is what Taster Experiences are for! Even if you’ve already made something before, you’ll still love a bit of stacking action!

Book Here: https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/stackers

Tell me about it

Hey, do you like pendants? Do you also like sea glass? Well, guess what we’ve got for you?! Yes, you lucky little chicken, we have a sea glass pendant class right here, right now waiting for you to buy! You will learn how to choose the best piece for your design, make a bespoke setting then add a fixing so a chain can be slid through. End the session by setting the sea glass and finishing it… woo hoo!

Choose to either bring your own found sea glass or simply choose from some of the pieces we’ve found on Banff Beach.

Book Here https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/pendant-sea-glass

Tell me about it

Let’s play with FIRE! Casting is a vital part of jewellery making, with some of the various techniques being millennia old. But there’s also some new kids on the block that we can take a look at, too. While all of them simply require you to pour molten metal into a negative mould or various surfaces, or just make it splash, it’s the preparation and how you actually pour that shiny melty liquid that makes all the difference. Each of the methods create different results, meaning you can pick and choose which one to use for each individual job you’re creating.

Because things now are far more structured, you can now plan ahead and choose when and how you’d like to learn jewellery making. Once you have completed this six week run, you have plenty of choice! You can choose to focus on Core Jewellery Skills of Necklaces, Rings [both returning for 2026 after running early in the year], Brooches and Bangles/Bracelets, or return for more Speciality Skills of Surface Patterns, Stone Setting [back in ‘26 again], and Alternative Materials. Or if you fancy just relaxing and playing around at your own pace, we offer Freestyle Sessions.

The details

Three-hour sessions

Every Wednesday, 6pm - 9pm

August 20th to September 24th

Book Here: https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/casting

After all, that’s what we’re here for, isn’t it? Come and learn the magic of silversmithing with us in our beautiful workshop. Once a famous Silver Town, we aim to put Banff back on the map and revive the rich heritage and history of this ancient craft. Fancy wielding a hammer with us and creating incredible objects? You’ve come to the right place.

This a Six week course running once a week for Six weeks.

Book Here;

https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/intro-silversmithing

Want to learn to make jewellery? You’ve come to the right place! Welcome to our new look introductory course. Our six-week block will allow you to learn the basics of making jewellery in consecutive weekly classes that each last three hours. The course caters for the straight-up novice, completely new to the industry and ready to begin their jewellery journey. Within this class, you will learn about the tools required for jewellery making as well as being shown how to use them in a safe and proper manner. You’ll be briefed on the techniques that are needed to get you through the beginnings of jewellery making.

This is a six week course, running once a week for six weeks,

Book Here;

https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/intro-core-jewellery

Make your very own brand-new piece of jewellery in just two hours with this workshop for complete beginners. You will learn how to make a silver ring from scratch and get to take it home with you on the day!

Choose from a selection of samples, find your finger size, then you’re ready to get making! We will take you through this exciting process step by step until you’ve made your very own piece of silver jewellery.

Buy Class Now,

https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/make-a-silver-ring

Keum-boo (also Geumbu, Kum-Boo or Kum-bu, literally meaning "attached gold") is an ancient Korean gilding technique used to apply thin sheets of gold to silver, to make silver-gilt.

In this class, you will have the opportunity to learn this age-old technique and make a collection of beautiful, unique jewellery.

Can I do this class?

The art of Keum Boo is a great experience for both beginners and accomplished jewellers. Lots of jewellers simply want to add it to their skills and beginners like being wowed by how cool it is!

What happens?

When you learn the ancient craft of Keum Boo, saw piercing, soldering, roll printing, texturing and finishing. Each student will be given a piece of silver and gold leaf and will be encouraged to make a jewellery set through various techniques. This can be a pendant, earrings, or pin. You then use heat and pressure to fuse the gold onto the silver to make beautiful patterns and detail. It is EXTREMELY awesome.

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/keum-boo

Mitsuro Wax, or to give it its full name, Mitsuro Hikime, is an ancient Japanese wax making technique that creates a truly unique type of material. This hand-made wax creates beautiful ridges and wrinkles that mimic natural form. During the course of this Taster Experience, you will learn how to make Mitsuro Wax from scratch and then how to work it to create some beautiful items of jewellery.

While you may not be able to take home a finished piece of jewellery that very day, don’t worry! You will have a finished piece to show for it as we will cast your piece and send it to you as soon as it is ready!

The aim of this class is to:

• introduce you to this incredible material

• allow you the time to experiment with it

• give you all the resources and information you need to recreate this process

• have FUN!

Book Here: https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/mitsuro-wax

Like the idea of using sea glass found right here on the Banff shores? In this session, we are going to combine the beauty of found polished sea glass with the adventurous technique of sand casting. You will be gently guided through the wonderful but sometimes unpredictable technique of sand casting.

Choosing your sea glass, smash it up and cast it in silver! What could be more fun?

Choose to either bring your own found sea glass [if you don’t mind your finds being smashed up in the name of amazing jewellery making] or simply choose from some of the pieces we’ve found on Banff beach.

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/sand-cast-sea-glass

In this session, we are introduced to stone setting. We are lucky enough to be led by a master setter down in Glasgow, so we definitely know a thing or two on this subject! But we also fully believe in teaching mount making alongside stone setting, which is why we find that the techniques in this session are spread across two weeks each, to give enough time to learn and understand alongside the actual making and setting. You’ll end up with some lovely jewellery as you step into the world of proper, old-school goldsmithing.

Because things now are far more structured, you can now plan ahead and choose when and how you’d like to learn jewellery making. Once you have completed this six week run, you have plenty of choice! You can choose to focus on Core Jewellery Skills of Brooches, Rings, and Bangles/Bracelets [Necklaces will run parallel with our Intro to Surface Patterns session and Rings runs alongside this one, with both returning in 2026], or return for more Speciality Skills of Casting and Alternative Materials. Or if you fancy just relaxing and playing around at your own pace, we offer Freestyle Sessions.

This is a 6 week class running once a week.

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/stone-setting

So, you’ve learned and practiced your silversmithing basics and got a grasp of how your metal can be shaped and formed… now let’s take it a few steps further. This course will build on the knowledge you have learned from the Introduction to Silversmithing and allow you to create more complex forms. Following the same format, you will learn three new techniques, each delivered across two sessions so that you can appreciate the time that goes into large scale making. You will be introduced to a greater selection of hammers [who knewthere were so many??] and taking metal so fine it’ll be thinner than foil! Whether you are a detailed engineer obsessed with precision, or someone who enjoys creating sculptural forms, you will love the evolutions this course provides you with.

This course runs once a week for six weeks.

Book Now: https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/further-silversmithing

Want to learn to make jewellery? You’ve come to the right place! Welcome to our new look introductory course. Our six-week block will allow you to learn the basics of making jewellery in consecutive weekly classes that each last three hours. The course caters for the straight-up novice, completely new to the industry and ready to begin their jewellery journey. Within this class, you will learn about the tools required for jewellery making as well as being shown how to use them in a safe and proper manner. You’ll be briefed on the techniques that are needed to get you through the beginnings of jewellery making.

This is a six week course, running once a week for six weeks,

Book Here;

https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/intro-core-jewellery

We’ve changed things a wee bit

Welcome to something a little bit new! We’ve broken up how we teach jewellery making and changed things up a bit. This is one of our Speciality Skills six-week blocks, which focus on the finer points of making jewellery. These sessions have been selected carefully as they match each other nicely and all belong in the same family as one another. Our Speciality Skills Sessions allow you to go at your own pace and choose when you learn.

If this is your first stop on your jewellery journey and you are not familiar with the basics of creating jewellery, then we absolutely insist you take our Introduction to Core Jewellery class before diving into these sessions.

Tell me about it

This is the next steps in our Surface Patterns journey. In our introductory course, we explored how striking, bending, squeezing, melting metal makes it behave and how to [hopefully] control it. In this six week block, we’re looking at adding and taking away! For enamelling and Keum Boo, we use surface + extra materials + heat to create our end goal. However, with etching, it’s all about what we remove and leave behind that creates pattern and texture. There’s very much an element of science with these techniques, too, which makes them fascinating.

Because things now are far more structured, you can now plan ahead and choose when and how you’d like to learn jewellery making. Once you have completed this six week run, you have plenty of choice! You can choose to focus on Core Jewellery Skills of Brooches and Bangles/Bracelets [Necklaces will run parallel with our intro session and Rings runs alongside this one, with both returning in 2026], or return for more Speciality Skills of Casting and Alternative Materials. Or if you fancy just relaxing and playing around at your own pace, we offer Freestyle Sessions.

The details

Three-hour sessions

Every Tuesday, 6pm - 9pm

April 29th to June 3rd

Book Here:https://www.vanillainkthesmiddy.co.uk/classes/further-surface-patterns