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. This is a short, sharp version of our six-week block that allows you to learn the basics of making jewellery in just one weekend. We know that not everyone can commit to the same morning or evening spread over two months, so now’s your chance to pick up your saw and learn the craft you’ve been dreaming of for years!

This weekend session 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 day is split into an AM and PM session, where you’ll focus on each of the techniques catered for within our introductory courses. It’s like the greatest hits of jewellery spread over two days. This class differs from the six-week version as it’s solely for learning and doesn’t lead to making your own project. This allows us to give you a really intense burst of training, cramming in as much as we can rather than being a bit more mellow over the six weeks. We will also be working exclusively in silver, rather than training in copper. This will mean you’ll leave with LOADS of top-class fine jewellery by the Sunday evening.

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. Click each link to find out more.

Can I do this class?

Of course you can, this is for absolute beginners!

What happens?

Sat AM - Make a silver ring - an introduction to the greatest hits of jewellery techniques

Sat PM - Saw pierce a pendant - learn to wield a saw frame alongside some filing and sanding

Sun AM - A look at surface patterns, alongside disc cutting

Sun PM - Learn about metal recycling and repurposing to create our unique Banff Token!

Do I need to bring anything?

We will email you our Intro to Jewellery 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 equipment. Everyone will have their own bench with access to all the tools and materials required to make jewellery.

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

Two-day weekend classes

10am - 5pm [we break for an hour’s lunch between 1pm - 2pm]

Choose your chosen date 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