The Metalsmith's Toolbox
Kate Richbourg
Class Preview
1:34
- In-depth Instruction; over 178 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Know Your Metals
22:47
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
31:02
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
27:58
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
18:02
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
26:33
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
26:34
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
24:28
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.
Join jewelry educator Kate Richbourg and discover the answers to your metalsmithing questions and challenges! Start with an exploration of metals, and learn how to choose the best materials for your projects. Then, wield jewelry hammers with finesse as you discover a variety of ways to add unique texture to metal. Next, add curved shapes to your repertoire as you find out how to use a dapping block to take your work from flat to fully dimensional. And, add foolproof cutting and refining techniques to your skill set, for a professional-quality finish that will last for years. Finally, find out the secret to achieving rainbows of stunning patinas on your designs with organic compounds, flame and even inks! Master metalsmithing for beginners, and embark on your future designs with confidence.
Kate Richbourg
Kate Richbourg is the popular instructor of three Craftsy classes. She has led jewelry-making workshops around the world for twenty years, and her designs have appeared in numerous publications, including Bead & Button, Art Jewelry and Beadwork. Kate is the author of Simple Soldering: A Beginner's Guide to Jewelry Making, as well as the Design Team Lead at Gaston Collective.
Bonus materials available after purchase