Festive Silver Clay workshop

Description

Art Clay Silver is a magical material made from fine silver particles suspended in a soft, malleable binder. It feels like clay, but once fired, it transforms into solid silver—perfect for jewellery making without the need for traditional metalworking tools. This workshop is designed for beginners who want to explore its creative potential in a relaxed, festive setting. You will be offered a range of seasonal cutters and textures (e.g. snowflakes, stars) or nature-inspired designs for a timeless feel, perfect for gifting or keeping! All specialist tools and textures are provided and you’ll be guided through the entire process—from shaping and texturing to refining, firing, and finishing—using torch firing for most pieces, with kiln firing available for larger groups or more intricate designs. Once fired, you’ll polish your creations to a professional shine and learn how to add jump rings or chains so they’re ready to wear or gift. Learning outcomes: by the end of the workshop, you’ll understand how to handle silver clay with confidence, apply textures using a variety of materials, and prepare your pieces for firing. You’ll gain practical experience in torch firing and polishing techniques, and leave with a solid foundation in silver clay jewellery making. The workshop is held in my garden studio, where I teach in small groups to ensure plenty of individual support. I bring years of experience in jewellery repair, silver clay work, and design education—and I’m here to make technical skills feel achievable, rewarding, and fun. An adult must accompany any attending kids of 11 years or over, and must pay for a separate booking. Please note that there are steps up to the studio, and it is not currently wheelchair accessible. No prior knowledge of working with silver clay is needed.

What's included in the price?

Each participant receives one packet of 10g Art Clay Silver, enough to make two to three small pieces. Additional clay, gemstones and findings are available to purchase on the day. Tools will be provided, but if you have any, feel free to bring your own.

Cancellation policy

Easy - Cancellation and a full refund can be obtained up to 2 weeks before the course starts

Maker

The Silver Bird

with Craft Courses since 2024

Message the tutor

I am the owner of The Silver Bird, an artisan, handmade jewellery business based in a semi-rural village in Cambridgeshire. I am a member of the Guild of Jewellery Designers, have a Diploma in Fine Jewellery making, and am currently completing a Diploma in Advance Jewellery making with the London Jewellery School. I specialise in bespoke commissions and customisable pieces, as well as teaching traditional jewellery making techniques. I retired from an 18 year career as a secondary DT teacher, over which time I taught hundreds of young people how to design and make novel, beautiful products, by exploring material properties and generating unique forms. During this time, I completed a Masters of Education at Cambridge University, focusing on creative idea generation and development. This gave me a particular passion for biomimicry; using and replicating the nature through product design to make unique textures and forms. I have taught adult silver jewellery making classes in several schools, and have set up my own teaching school in Pampisford, Cambridge. Jewellery making with silver is easily the most addictive thing I have ever done. And that's before we talk about the enchanting world of gemstones! Whether you are into contemporary or classic pieces, you are learning for pleasure, or you want your own career change, I can help you fall in love with the processes and achieve your jewellery-making potential. Contact me for an informal chat if you'd like more information of what I can offer. I look forward to making with you.