Silver Clay Beginners day

Frequently Asked Questions

• What do I make on a silver jewellery making course?

  It depends on the course you choose, but you make items of solid silver jewellery such as pendants, ear rings or necklaces.  I also hold ring and bangle making courses.  Some courses encompass the setting of sea glass and dichroic glass.

• What is sea glass?

  It can be found on beaches from broken glass that has broken into small pieces and has been smoothed by the sea and wind.  I have many a happy hour at the seaside gathering sea glass.

• What is dichroic glass?

  It is a glass that changes colour under different lighting conditions or if viewed from various angles.

• What process do you use to make the silver?

  
  I use silver clay, which is pliable, so it can be shaped into many designs that you can create yourself or I can help you with ideas.  When you have molded your design in clay, you fire your piece to burn off other substances in the clay to leave a residue of 99% pure silver.  You then polish your piece to finish off the process to create an amazing piece of your own unique silver jewellery.

• Can silver clay be fired in a domestic oven?

  No, it needs to be fired in a kiln or with a butane torch to achieve the desired temperatures.

• Is silver clay real silver?

  Yes, it is 99% pure solid silver after firing.

• Is the silver hallmarked?

  
  It is of hallmark standard and if I am selling a piece that weighs over 7.98 grams I have to hallmark it.  I have my own hallmark registered with the London Assay Office.

• Do I get to take my pieces home with me?

  Yes, that is all included in the price.  it is really good to make your own jewellery to wear or to make gifts for your loved ones.  When you weigh up the fact that you get your pieces of jewellery as well as tuition, then I believe the courses offer tremendous value.

• How many pieces of jewellery can I expect to make on a course?

  
  This will depend upon the size and complexity of your pieces.  On a half day course you can expect to make 2 to 3 pieces.  On a full day course you can expect to make 3 to 5 pieces.  

• If I wanted to make more pieces, can I buy more silver clay?

  Yes you can.  I can advise you when you are on the course.

• Do I need to hire or buy any tools to design and make my jewellery pieces?

  No, all tools are made available for you to use on the day.

• Where are the courses held?

  They are in my studio in Market Bosworth.  I do run courses around the Midlands, so if Market Bosworth is not convenient, please contact me to see what courses I am running nearer to your convenient location.  

• Do you do group bookings?

  Yes.  These classes have proved to be popular for hen parties and general get -togethers with friends or family groups.  Please contact me if you have a specific request.  

  Phone or text 07947 734801.  Email:  louiseannedesigns@yahoo.com

• Can the group bookings be held at a location of our choosing?

  Yes, within reason depending on numbers and location.  Please contact me with details and I can quote a price for you.

  Phone or text 07947 734801.  Email:  louiseannedesigns@yahoo.com

• Do you do corporate events?

  Yes, I love to do corporate events and they are great for creativity and team building.  Please contact me with details and I can quote a price for you.

  Phone or text 07947 734801.  Email:  louiseannedesigns@yahoo.com

• Is the activity suitable for children?

  Yes, I recommend a minimum age of 10 and they must be accompanied by a paying adult.

• Are there any particular items I need to bring with me?

  There is some close-up detailed work involved, so please bring suitable glasses/lenses if required.  Whilst it is unlikely to be an issue, we recommend closed-toe footwear for when you are firing your piece.

• Do you undertake more advanced courses?

  I teach the art clay diploma.  As the course is very comprehensive, please contact me for more details and advice.

  Phone or text 07947 734801.  Email:  louiseannedesigns@yahoo.com

• Are you courses suitable for beginners?

  Absolutely.  Full tuition and help is given for all skill levels.  Please don't worry about asking any questions or feeling you have to be a certain standard.  I have been there as a beginner and made the mistakes which I can hopefully help you avoid.  The class is relaxed and I make it fun to learn.  

• Do you provide refreshments?

  I provide the hot drinks and a range of cold drinks along with biscuits.  Please let me know if you have any special requests.  If you are coming on a full day course, you are welcome to bring your own lunch or there are plenty of local eateries to choose from in the lovely Market Bosworth village centre which is approximately a 5-10 minute walk from the studio.

• Are you environmentally friendly?

  Absolutely.  I take every opportunity to look after our special world.  I use recyclable packaging and the silver clay itself is made up from recycled material.  Components of old mobile phones and out of date hospital x-rays are just examples of material that are recycled into silver clay.

• Do you sell gift vouchers that can be used for buying your courses or jewellery?

  Yes I do, at different values and they are available to purchase through the web site.

• Can I buy your jewellery?

  Yes, there is a range of pieces on the website or contact me if you have a specific request.

  Phone or text 07947 734801.  Email:  louiseannedesigns@yahoo.com

• Can you make jewellery to my specific requirements?

  Please let me know what you want and I can advise you.

  Phone or text 07947 734801.  Email:  louiseannedesigns@yahoo.com

• Can you set stones in your silver jewellery?

  The short answer is yes and I do sea glass courses and dichroic glass courses.  But let me know what you are thinking and I can advise you.

  Phone or text 07947 734801.  Email:  louiseannedesigns@yahoo.com

• What experience and qualifications do you have?

  I started working in metal clay in 2012 and went on to take many courses.  I am now a senior metal clay instructor and hold the higher diploma in art clay.  I have taught hundreds of satisfied students where I am pleased to say that all reviews given on various websites where I teach have been 5 star ratings.  I teach at various schools around the Midlands.

• Do you teach on-line?

  Yes I have done and can do, but I prefer to teach face to face to provide the full help and support.  However, if it is something you want to consider, contact me and I will advise you.

  Phone or text 07947 734801.  Email:  louiseannedesigns@yahoo.com