Workshop summary This course is suitable for those who want to design their own jewellery but aren't sure where to start, and those who have begun their jewellery-designing journey but would like to develop their sketchbook work and skills while exercising their design muscles. It's ideal for anyone planning to make jewellery to sell, and for those working towards the Metal Clay Masters' Registry Program.
Tell me more about this workshop This workshop runs from 10:00hrs-17:00hrs on one day, and is led by Liz Woolf, a lampwork (glass) beadmaker, qualified teacher and enthusiastic maker with a passion for beautiful things. Liz firmly believes that, with a little encouragement, and a 'have a go' attitude, anyone can design jewellery well. Often, though, we feel unconfident and not sure where to begin when it comes to design. This course will show you the way, and get you into the design habit in a fun and accessible way (even if you think you can't draw or have no imagination).
Note that this is purely a design ideas workshop - no actual jewellery will be made on the day, though you can expect to leave with plenty of ideas to put into practice!
This is a workshop-based experiential course, providing a safe space for you to explore your jewellery design ideas while developing the habit of designing. By the end of the day, you'll have started your very own design sketchbook - with no drawing needed (unless you want to draw).
What topics will be covered? The course will take you through the steps needed to begin your own jewellery design sketchbook, show you how to overcome your fears and uncertainties and begin designing. You will discuss issues surrounding specific jewellery design, will feast on a range of practical exercises designed to release creativity (useful for days when ideas just won't flow), and will encourage you to begin discovering your very own design language.
This will be a day of playful discovery, experimentation and inspiration, so come with an open mind ready to have fun as you unlock your potential as a jewellery designer.
By the end of this course you should be able to: identify basic principles of good design; and develop themes for your own work from a range of source materials. You'll be exploring the basics of good design, and, with the tutor's help, you'll start to develop your own designs and ideas in your very own sketchbook. By the end of the day, you should have the beginnings of your own jewellery design sketchbook, containing some completed designs.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills? This course is suitable for students of all abilities, and for everyone interested in jewellery design, particularly (but not exclusively) those lacking confidence in their jewellery design abilities.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the course? The course is taught by presentations, demonstrations, group and individual tutoring, and group discussion. All teaching will take place during the course, and no pre-course work is required.
Who will my tutor be? This course is taught by Liz Woolf, a qualified and experienced teacher and maker, renowned for her welcoming approach and friendliness. See tutor page for more information about Liz.
How big is the class size? This course is limited to a maximum of seven students, to ensure plenty of individual tutor attention.
Are materials included? Yes, the fee includes a sketchbook for you to use on the day, and you will also have the use of communal materials such as crayons, glue, pencils etc. You will be asked to bring a few items with you (see below).
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring? There are no extra costs. Please bring along a digital camera or phone with camera facility, any crayons, felt tips, pens, charcoal and pencils you would like to use, and several old magazines (car magazines, interior decoration magazines, Sunday colour supplements from the newspapers are all ideal), plus any postcards or images, scraps of material or ribbons you have that appeal to you (images brought should NOT be of jewellery). You are also welcome to bring along ideas or designs you have been working on.
Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol? No.
What feedback will I get? You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the day, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course, you will be invited to take part in an optional and informal group 'show and tell', to assess the progress you have all made.
How will I be able to give my views on the course? Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored, and help us to continually improve our courses.
When I've finished, what course can I do next? All of our other courses complement this course well.
Who can I contact for further information? General information and advice on courses at the Sussex Jewellery School is available by phone or email: call 07939 696 465 or email SussexJewellerySchool[at]gmail.com.
Can I change or cancel my booking? Please note that, for logistical reasons, we are unable to offer transfers or refunds on this course. Please read T&C page before booking.