The Metalsmith’s Toolbox

Class Preview

Become a more confident metalsmith with must-have shop secrets! Learn how to use the tools of the trade for sophisticated results.

Know Your Metals

Meet jewelry designer Kate Richbourg and preview the creative techniques you’ll learn in class to enhance your designs — and make the most of your toolbox. Then, explore a variety of jewelry-making metals as Kate highlights their unique properties and offers valuable tips for working with them.

Forming Tools

Gain confidence wielding your jewelry hammer! Discover the top five hammers every jewelry maker should own, then see how to effectively form your pieces using everything from brass and rawhide mallets, to chasing, raising, and planishing hammers. In addition, Kate demonstrates the proper riveting technique.

Texturing Tools

Discover how to add gorgeous texture and dimension to your jewelry with Kate’s guidance. Practice transferring patterns onto metal using a wide array of tools, including everyday household objects. Plus, find out how to make your own texturing hammers to create truly one-of-a-kind designs.

Shaping Tools

Learn how to transform flat metal into striking three-dimensional pieces! Practice forming metal into curved shapes with a dapping block, and use dimpling pliers to create patterns of raises and recesses. Then, discover how to achieve a corrugated and waffle effect with a tube wringer.

Cutting & Finishing

Elevate the quality of your designs by honing your metal cutting and finishing skills. As Kate walks you through these important steps, you’ll learn how to make a variety of cuts with a bench shear, handheld shears and a jeweler’s saw, as well as the proper technique for refining rough edges with files and rotary tools.

Organic Patinas

Want to add colorful effects to your pieces? Kate shares her tried-and-true techniques for working with a diverse collection of organic patinas — liver of sulfur, homemade patinas and several alternative options — offering expert advice along the way. You’ll be impressed by the striking results!

Synthetic Patinas

Continue experimenting with color as Kate demonstrates how to incorporate synthetic patinas into your work. Practice applying liquid patinas onto metal, and discover how stamps, ink and embossing powder can punch up any design. Plus, Kate offers tips on how to preserve the color for years to come.