Sandcast Jewelry – New!
Adult Multi-Week | FULL
Sandcasting is an ancient metal casting technique that is still widely used and relevant in the modern age. It is one of the most direct means to go from idea to metal part, in little time and with easily accessible tools and materials. In this class, we will cover the basics of creating sand molds for a variety of objects and geometries from simple to complex. We will learn how to cast and replicate found objects as well as creating our own designs by various means which we will then cast in metal. This class will focus mostly casting small-silver jewelry objects, but the same techniques can be used for other metals such as bronze and copper with a little more heat. We will learn the fundamentals of melting and pouring the metal safely, and how to clean up and refine our cast parts, turning them into finished metal jewelry designs. We will also cover basic alloying and metal recycling. You will leave this class empowered to continue sandcasting on your own, and have several cast metal designs you've made and are proud of.
- No prerequisite classes or experience working with metal is necessary for this class, however having a basic knowledge of working with metals will help you make the most of this process. Some bronze will be provided, however students are encouraged to supply their own metals for casting. The instructor will discuss where + how to purchase metal during class. Crafting the patterns and creating the sand molds is very safe and can be done from the comfort of a desk. Melting the metal however has to be done with caution and with appropriate studio ventilation and eye protection. For this reason, long pants and close-toed shoes must be worn at all times in this studio.
Accessibility notes: Many artmaking processes require the ability to sit or stand for extended periods of time, fine motor skills/finger dexterity, repetitive motions, vision, and some amount of physical strength. VisArts values making classes accessible to everyone, and is always happy to work with students to make accommodations when possible. Please reach out to info@visarts.org with specific questions related to accessibility or accommodations.
Crafting the designs and preparing the molds for sandcasting does not require much strength and can be done from the comfort of a chair. Melting the metal is best done standing up and requires a steady hand. If anyone in the class prefers not to melt and pour the molten metal, the instructor is happy to do this part of the process for you.
Classes are confirmed one week prior to the start date. In order to help us confirm classes, please register as early as possible.
On-site courses do not come with studio access outside of class time. Paid open studio access is available through our Studio Access Program. Please visit visarts.org for more information.
Stefan Gougherty
Drawing upon his industrial design background, Stefan Gougherty creates jewelry that's both a celebration and critique of human ingenuity. His previous career designing wearable technology informs his metalsmithing process– where practicality, ergonomics, manufacturability and more are synthesized to create highly functional yet unusual art-objects. With a DIY spirit and constant experimentation and prototyping from his home studio, Stefan teaches design and relentlessly tinkers to discover something new.