No Kiln, No Problem! Torch Fired Enamel on Project X

June 1, 2024  9:00am – 5:00pm (Breaking One Hour For Lunch) Clay Revolution 107 South Market Street Madison, NC 27025

No Kiln No Problem:  Torch Fired Enamel On Project X with Brandy Boyd

Do you think you need a kiln to fire and enamel fine silver metal clay? Think again! In this class, you'll learn how to use texture plates to create a fine silver piece born to be enameled! We'll add a bail and torch fire the metal clay.

After a burnishing spin, your piece will be ready to enamel. No long firing or tumbling times are required! We'll cover how to add enamel using a wet-packing technique, which colors are practically foolproof on silver, and how to torch fire the enamel using a small torch.

You'll be able to watch the magic happen as the sandy grains of glass melt to become sparkling inlays in the silver. At the end of the class, we will cover finishing techniques for smoothing the enamel or removing errant grains to allow your silver to really shine.

What you’ll learn:

Fundamentals of Enameling: Discover the essentials of enameling techniques, from preparing your silver clay canvas to applying vibrant enamel colors with precision and finesse.

Silver Clay Basics: Master the art of working with silver clay as your base material, including shaping, texturing, and firing techniques to create the perfect foundation for your enamel masterpiece.

Color Alchemy: Explore the magical interplay of color and light as you experiment with a spectrum of enamels, learning how to achieve captivating effects and blend hues to express your unique artistic vision.

Firing and Finishing Techniques: Gain confidence in firing your enameled creations to perfection, as well as refining and polishing your pieces to enhance their luster and allure.

Design Inspiration and Innovation: Unleash your creativity with personalized guidance and inspiration, as you learn how to translate your ideas into wearable works of art that reflect your individual style and personality.

Troubleshooting and Tips: Overcome common challenges and pitfalls with expert troubleshooting tips and tricks, ensuring smooth sailing on your enameling journey.

Community and Collaboration: Immerse yourself in a supportive and collaborative learning environment, where you'll connect with fellow artists, share insights, and celebrate each other's successes along the way.

Class Details:

Instructor: Brandy Boyd-BMB Designs

Class Duration: This workshop runs from 9:00am – 5:00pm EST with a one hour break for lunch.

In-Person and Online Options:  Attend in person or join the class online to accommodate different preferences and locations.

Kit Inclusions:  15g .999 Project X clay, transparent enamels in small cups, wet/dry sand papers, tiny application tools (microbrushes and toothpicks), klyr-fire, and pipette, use of tools and consumable material for in-person students.

**For Online Students:

A list of required tools and material is below to ensure a seamless and interactive learning experience.  Students will receive an email one week before class with the sign in details.  The class will be held via Zoom.

Who Should Attend:

This class is perfect for beginner to intermediate to metal clay, beginners to enameling, or anyone looking to enhance their skills in both areas.  Experience artists seeking additional design options will find inspiration and challenges tailored to their expertise.

Why Enroll:

Gain hands-on experience, learn from a master instructor, and create a beautiful pendant that showcases your newly acquired skills.  Whether you are starting your creative journey or adding new dimensions to your expertise, this workshop promises an enriching experience. Reserve your spot today and embark on a creative adventure with Brandy Boyd. Elevate your skills in metal clay an enameling and craft a pendant that reflects your unique style and craftsmanship.

List of required tools and materials for online students:

Basic Metal Clay Tool Kit, torch and brick for firing metal clay (A micro torch is fine, but a plummers torch with a 1lb tank is even better for firing the enamel), Texture Mat with shapes that have an edge (LinCora triple design mats are perfect), Release Agent, Rotary tumbler with steel shot or magnetic pin finisher with steel pins, Tripod – 9” tall preferred but 6” is fine, Torch firing trivet or steel screen for the tripod Stiff bristle brush (like a nail or vegetable brush), dish soap, and access to running water. Wood or rubber block to use for wet sanding the enamel. Distilled water for washing enamels.

OPTIONAL Tools: Wety/Dry snap on sanding discs and rotary tool or an alundum stone.

Pricing:

In-Person: $200 registration plus $20 kit fee payable to the instructor.

Online With A Kit: $225 Registration plus kit which includes: 15g .999 Project X clay, transparent enamels in small cups, wet/dry sand papers, tiny application tools (microbrushes and toothpicks), klyr-fire, and pipette, use of tools and consumable material for in-person students.

Online With No Kit: $160 Registration includes the link for the Zoom Class that will be viewable for 30 days. Student to provide their own tools and materials. you need a kiln in order to fire and enamel fine silver metal clay? Think again! 

In this class, you'll learn how to use Lin Cora texture plates to create a fine silver piece born to be enameled. We'll add a bail and torch fire the metal clay.

After a burnishing spin, your piece will be ready to enamel. No long firing or tumbling times are required! We'll cover how to add enamel using a wet-packing technique, which colors are practically foolproof on silver, and how to torch fire the enamel using a butane microtorch.

You'll be able to watch the magic happen as the sandy grains of glass melt to become sparkling inlays in the silver. At the end of the class, we will cover finishing techniques for smoothing the enamel or removing errant grains to allow your silver to really shine. 

All materials and the use of all tools is included in the class fee.