Introduction to Torch-fire Enamelling, Sunday 13/04/25 with Clare Hooper

Class Description:

When: 10-4pm

Duration: 10:00am - 4:00pm

Date: Sunday 13/04/25

Teacher: Clare Hooper

Learn the fundamentals of Torch-fired Enameling.

This hands-on workshop introduces you to the art of enameling, a process that fuses colourful glass, a led free enamel to metal surfaces using a handheld torch. Perfect for intermediate jewellery makers, this class provides a creative and approachable way to add striking detail and depth to your pieces.

Class Highlights:

In this class you will learn how to utilise your torch skills and vitreous enamels to create a pendant that will be enamelled.

Students will be guided by Clare Hooper, an experience teacher with years of experience in the technique. Clare will navigate you through the challenges that may arise.

Skill Progression:

Once you have decided which colours you will use, Clare will then guide you on how to correctly and efficiently apply the enamels to the metal using the sifting technique.

Some of the techniques and information covered:

·        learn which materials are suitable to enamel

·        how to prepare metal surfaces for enameling

·        Techniques for applying and layering enamels

·        applying enamel with sifting, with or without a stencil

·        Methods for creating textured, glossy, or matte finishes

·        How to correctly heat the metal with enamel

·        Tips for troubleshooting and achieving consistent results

·        finishing the pendant so that you can attach it to a cord or chain

At the end of the class, you will have a finished fine silver pendant and several copper samples.

Who should attend:

This class is perfect for those with prior experience using a jeweller’s torch who want to expand their skill set.

Class size:

This is a small class size – maximum of 6 students. Each students will receive maximum attention from the teacher.

Included in the program:

• Fine silver sheet to produce pendant (30x30x0.8mm)
• Copper sheets for practice
• Basic tools and equipment
• Consumables (saw blades, emery paper, 10 colours of enamel to choose from, etc)
• Light refreshment

Please come to class dressed appropriately:

Clothing: Wear garments made of natural materials, such as cotton, wool, rayon, or linen. Synthetic fibers are not allowed. Your attire should include long pants, a shoulder-covering T-shirt, and well-fitting clothing. Avoid loose garments, shorts, skirts, and tank tops.

Footwear: Always wear fully enclosed shoes. Sandals, flip-flops, high heels, and platform shoes are not permitted.

Hair: Ensure that long hair is securely tied back.
Jewellery: Remove all jewellery from your hands, including rings and bracelets. Avoid wearing long necklaces and earrings.

Accessories: Do not wear hats, earphones, headphones, scarves, or similar items while working in the workshop.

Minimum Numbers

This class requires a minimum of four students to go ahead. In the unlikely event minimum numbers are not reached, we will contact you with alternative dates to reschedule your booking.

Cancellation & Rescheduling

Due to limited availability in our private and group classes, all bookings are non-refundable. Rescheduling is also not possible, as the logistical arrangements and personalized focus of each class cater to small groups. The Metal Space is required to pay tutor fees regardless of attendance. If you fail to attend or miss your scheduled booking, you will not be eligible for a refund.

In the event this class is cancelled by The Metal Space for unforeseen reasons, the class fee will be refunded to the students.

Refunds are processed promptly by The Metal Space however we are not able to determine how long the financial institution may take to transfer. Please allow up to 10 business days for the refund to be processed. 

Make up classes

If a class is missed for any reason, a make-up session cannot be offered. As a small school with a limited number of classes, we are unable to accommodate or cover the cost of a tutor for make-up sessions.

Please check your schedule and ensure your availability before enrolling.

Student Responsibility

At all times it is the student’s responsibility to check the class starting date, time and venue location.