We’ve changed things a wee bit

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.

Tell me about it

Each week we look at something different from the jewellery basics and show you the core skills that will give you a base to branch out and progress on your jewellery journey. We will also discuss things like where to find suppliers and point you in the right direction for all tools and materials. We also allow for a bit of creativity too, and get you designing and making your own piece by week six - get you!

This is your first stop on your jewellery journey where we teach you the basics of creating jewellery, that will then allow you to progress to the next levels. For this, you have plenty of choice! You can choose to focus on Core Jewellery Skills [Necklaces, Brooches, Rings, Bangles/Bracelets], or turn to our Speciality Skills [Casting, Stone Setting, Surface Patterns, Alternative Materials]. Or if you fancy just relaxing and playing around at your own pace, we offer Freestyle Sessions.

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

Can I do this class?

Of course you can, this is for absolute beginners!

What happens?

Week One - a tour of the workshop, your bench, and all the tools, before learning to solder and play with fire!
Week Two - saw piercing, filing and sanding
Week Three - texturing, roll printing and disc cutting
Week Four - recycling and repurposing materials
Week Five - use your new skills to create a decorative silver ring
Week Six - project time… what kind of pendant will you create?

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 make jewellery. For your week five and six projects, we always discuss your plans thoroughly beforehand so you have an idea of what to do.

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!

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