If you would like to add casting to your silversmithing repertoire, here is your chance!
Gravity pours are low-tech exciting ways to use clean scrap silver and casting grain to create one-of-a-kind or repeated sterling silver jewelry works. Gravity pour refers to using the weight of the molten metal to fill the mold, rather than the use of centrifugal force. It is an ancient technique with contemporary application!
Cuttlebone is the bone of the cuttlefish, a relative of the squid. You will prepare the cuttlebone to create a smooth surface in which to carve a design using simple tools. The resultant mold is then filled using a handheld crucible and molten silver...gravity pour!
We will also experiment with shapes that occur by pouring molten silver into water, onto ice, and onto split peas. Stinky, but gratifying. These cast elements can be completed as-is or added to with your silversmithing fabrication knowledge or re-melted in another gravity pour.
This is an introduction to various gravity pour techniques, in order to give you a taste of possibilities. If you get hooked it is very easy to continue using this technique in the studio.
Limited to six.
If you're interested in being put on the waiting list and/or future workshops, please
contact me.
