This Saturday will be our 5th Make a Ring workshop, and it feels like we are really starting to find our rhythm. It has been so much fun watching the creativity and skills of our students. Teaching was always part of the plan, but we had no idea it would we such a fulfilling experience.

Each class begins with selecting a stone. There is a nice variety to pick from that includes jaspers, agates, turquoise and more in all different colors. The stone is a major part of the ring and this is the opportunity to really define what you want your ring to look like. Once the stones have been selected, we work with you to come up with a design that is both beautiful and functional.

The designs are then transferred to silver and the real fun starts. During the fabrication process you learn a variety of basic metalsmithing techniques: sawing, filling, forming, stamping, soldering etc. We are there every step of the way to help and guide. It may seem a bit daunting at first, but pretty quickly you realize that it is worth the effort.

Of course the best part is when it is all done and you leave with a ring YOU made that will last a life time. As if a super awesome ring wasn't enough, the icing on the cake is that you also leave with a greater understanding and appreciation for the craft of metalsmithing and creating jewelry.

*soldering is fun, because you get to play with fire*

We really can't get enough of these workshops. It is so fun for us to watch the rings come to life. Each ring is just as unique as the individuals that create them. We will definitely be doing more in the future. If you are interested in participating, click on over to our workshop page where you can find the most up to date information. We would love your feedback on future cities we should travel to and different skills/types of jewelry you want to learn.

all photographs by Morgan Miller Photography