This is a fun activity in Edinburgh
In this one-day, beginner-friendly workshop, local jeweller and enameller Sheila McDonald will show you how to embellish silver jewellery using two different enamelling techniques.
The technique of enamelling is the process of coating a metal surface with a layer of fine grains of enamel, which is heated at high temperature, causing the tiny grains of enamel to fuse together and transform into a smooth glass layer.
Enamel is a special type of glass that has a lower melting temperature than normal glass and is produced in a large range of different colours, making it ideal for decorating jewellery. Enamels are generally either opaque (solid colour) or transparent (giving the appearance of watercolour). In this workshop, we will use both powdered enamel for sieving and washed/ground enamel for wet laying.
During the workshop, we will use a small kiln. However, small-scale enamelling can also be performed using a hand torch or cook’s torch, and Sheila will also demonstrate this process. Using handheld torches eliminates the need for a specialised enamel kiln but is only suitable for smaller pieces.
We will be enamelling onto silver to make a pair of earrings, charms, or a pendant drop. Each stage will be explained in detail, and Sheila will demonstrate a range of different decorating techniques.
A variety of pre-made cast silver shapes will be available to choose from, and the price of the workshop includes materials to create two items, such as two pairs of earrings or two pendants.
Silver chains will be available to purchase for a small extra charge.
**Earth-conscious credentials**
We are mindful of the effect we have on the environment and do our best to minimise our impact. All the enamels used are lead-free, and the silver is ethically sourced/recycled.
You will take the lovely products you have created home with you on the day, and workshop correspondence and notes are sent to you electronically.
