Silversmithing returns to Banff!

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.

Tell me about it

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 knew there 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.

After completing this module you will have learned skills that need to be practiced to truly gain more insight into them. Our Freestyle Sessions have been specifically designed to allow you to do just this. Come along to them to continue your training by practicing what you’ve been taught, exploring your own design ideas, or try your hand at a one of our Silversmithing Masterclass sessions throughout the year.

<< We are still in the process of creating and uploading all our content, keep checking back for more Silversmithing Skills! >>

Can I do this class?

If you have completed our Introduction to Silversmithing, dive on in. Or maybe you’ve already learned core skills elsewhere at some point. If you’re unsure about which class is right for you, just get in touch.

What happens?

Weeks One & Two - Raising
Weeks Three & Four - Scoring and folding
Weeks Five & Six - Anticlastic raising

Do I need to bring anything?

We will email you our manual ahead of the class, please bring this digitally or printed out. Also a sketchbook or something for taking notes etc.

You don’t need to bring anything with you as we will provide all the equipment needed plus the materials for the entire six weeks. Everyone will have their own bench with access to all the tools required to learn silversmithing.

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!

<< Please note that during these classes, we will work in copper, which simulates other precious metals nicely and keeps costs down. If you would like to learn in silver, get in touch so we can create a bespoke cost for you >>

The details

Three-hour sessions

Choose your date and time from the drop-down menu below

We are a Community Interest Company who are beyond profit. When you buy a class from The Smiddy, money is invested in our social enterprise programmes. We aim to create a variety of sessions aimed at the most vulnerable, disadvantaged or deserving in society to give a sense of purpose and help them feel connected to those within their community. Our goal is to promote social engagement and support cultural enhancement. We believe everyone should get the opportunity to experience jewellery making.

All prices are inclusive of VAT
Students must be 16+ years
Good eyesight and hand dexterity is essential
Please read our full Ts & Cs and Cancellation Policies before booking

Vanilla Ink The Smiddy
Old Market Place
Banff
AB45 1GE