Behind the Scenes of Teaching a Jewelry Class
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to teach a metalsmithing class? Let me take you behind the scenes of my jewelry-making workshops, where creativity meets craftsmanship in a hands-on environment that’s fun for both beginners and experienced makers alike.
Every class starts with setting up the studio—making sure all the tools, materials, and stations are ready for the day. Each student has their own workspace, complete with all the essentials they’ll need: hammers, bench block, sandbag, and more. For some, it's their first time seeing or using these tools, which makes it all the more exciting!
The energy really begins to buzz when students arrive. I love welcoming everyone into the space, seeing their anticipation as they wonder what they’ll create by the end of the class. If it's a stone setting class, they get to start checking out my stone collection and picking the one they want to work with. Students love getting to class a little early so they get to pick first and have a little more time to dream up their creation. Before we dive into the projects, I like to start with quick introductions so that everyone can learn a little bit about each person in the class and get to know each other.
One of my favorite moments during the class is when students start to get the hang of using the tools. You can literally see the lightbulb moments as they discover how to make their first cut or successfully solder two pieces together. It’s in these moments that I see how metalsmithing brings out a different kind of creativity in people—whether they’re hammering out a unique texture or making decisions about how they want their final piece to look.
Teaching isn't just about showing students how to use metalsmithing tools; it’s also about encouraging them to explore their own creativity. I often remind students that their first idea might not always be their best one, and I encourage them to keep brainstorming and pushing their designs further. It’s rewarding to watch them leave the studio with a piece of jewelry that reflects their individuality and the skills they’ve just learned.
By the end of each class, students leave with more than just a new ring or pair of earrings—they leave with the knowledge and confidence to create more. And for me, there’s nothing better than seeing someone light up when they realize they can craft something beautiful with their own hands.
If you’ve ever been curious about metalsmithing or thought about trying your hand at jewelry making, I’d love to see you in one of my classes. It’s not just about the finished piece; it’s about the journey, the skills you build, and the creative memories we make along the way.
