Metalsmithing Studio Tour

The metalsmithing studio is tucked into the woods just past the farmhouse and the flameworking studio when driving into Snow Farm. The maximum class size is 8 so that each student has their own bench space, under-bench storage drawer, and task light. A separate table makes it easy for everyone to see when the teacher is demonstrating. The studio is equipped to offer workshops in standard metal techniques, precious metal clay, and enameling.

COVID-19 UPDATE:  Plexiglass dividers on the shared workbench will separate each workspace. Individual tool kits will be provided. A new UV sterilizer is available for cleaning shared tools after use and individual toolkits between workshops. Students are encouraged to bring their own gloves, apron, small tools, writing utensil, etc to reduce sharing.  Anti-bacterial wipes will be provided and instructions posted for cleaning shared equipment. For more information, see the COVID-19 Information page.

Equipment & Supplies

The soldering stations were expanded and upgraded in 2017.  Four stations, each with a fire-resistant adjustable height chair and ventilation draw, assures that in a class of eight everyone can solder without a long wait. Other equipment includes a vacuum table and centrifuge, a rolling mill and texture plates, a wire mill, heavy duty guillotine shears, one Beverly shear, two flex shafts, two stationary drills, a large and a small anvil, a small belt sander, a double sided polishing station, two digital calipers, a triple-beam balance scale, and two toaster ovens.

Kilns include two Paragon kilns for enameling, one Paragon kiln for PMC only, and one larger kiln.

A full array of hand tools includes ten saw frames and assorted blades, two dapping and punch sets, a disc cutter with punch set, a variety of ring and bracelet mandrels, ring clamps, tube cutters, a miter vise/jig with small hex key and all manner of pliers, cutters, hammers, and sandpaper.

The studio is generally stocked with wire and sheet in copper, brass, and bronze. Silver is stocked per instructor request.

covid safe metalsmithing workshop

Physical Requirements

Working in the metalsmithing/jewelry studio generally requires average strength and mobility. Some classes, however, include repetitive hammering, forging, or forming, which require extended periods of standing and moderate to high level hand and full body strength. Jewelry and metalsmithing can also involve fine, detailed work, which requires long periods sitting and bending over a project. The physical demands in metalsmithing can vary from class to class. Students who are concerned about their ability to participate safely and comfortably in a particular class should contact us to discuss before registering. 

 

Workshop Open Studio

The metalsmithing studio is available 24 hours per day throughout a workshop. Instructors will outline safety guidelines for students who are staying to work, including any tools that should not be used without the instructor present. We suggest bringing a cell phone in case an emergency arises and you need to contact the on-site coordinator. Torches can only be used when the instructor or another student is present. Any students using a torch after the instructor leaves should be approved by the instructor as competent with safety and shut down, including proper bleeding of all gas line before closing the studio at night. The polishing wheel should never be used without the instructor or another student present. As is true in all Snow Farm studios, no consumption of drugs or alcohol is allowed in the studios, nor shall students work with studio equipment when under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The last person in any studio is responsible for studio shutdown and turning off indoor lights and closing the doors for the night.