In this class we will boil painting down to the most basic exercise of mark making. There’s no pressure to make a “thing.” We’ll talk about our inner critic and when that needling voice can enter the conversation between you and the paper. We’ll talk about how judgement can be a giant brick wall in the practice of expression. You will learn to tap into your experience and utilize your intuition.
Upcoming Class: February 12, 5 - 8PM
This gift entitles you to five (3 hour) sessions of beginning metalsmithing starting in 2026. We’ll schedule the days that are most convenient for you (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, or Sundays). It’s best if you have 7-10 days between each session to practice with hand tools.
Skill set #1: Hand tools and Soldering - Chain making
Skill set #2: Sawing, Piercing - Pendant making
Skill set #3: Textures with the hammers and rolling mill
Skill set #4: Stone Setting
Remember being a kid, pushing around some paint, scribbling with delight, choosing colors because you like them and for no other reason, making marks because you can?
In this class we will boil painting down to the most basic exercise of mark making. There’s no pressure to make a “thing.” We’ll talk about our inner critic and when that needling voice can enter the conversation between you and the paper. We’ll talk about how judgement can be a giant brick wall in the practice of expression. You will learn to tap into your experience and utilize your intuition.
Upcoming Class: February 12, 5 - 8PM
This is my daily practice. I have done this in a million different ways, in a sketchbook, on a piece of butcher paper on my wall, on the actual walls in public, and my favorite is the way we’ll do it in this class, four paintings at once.
I will teach you how to prepare your paper for framing later. You will also have access to all of my supplies (charcoal, pencil, markers, acrylic inks, acrylic paints, brushes, and the scraping tools that I use).
Join us for a hands-on, three-hour class where you’ll transform a set amount of continuous steel wire into a custom flower pendant that hangs from a chain. You’ll learn shaping, forming, and finishing techniques that give steel an elegant, sculptural look.
Everyone begins with the same amount of material, but your creativity drives the final design. Most participants are able to make more than one piece during the session, and earrings are also an exciting possibility if time allows
Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, this class is designed to introduce you to the fun and intricate aspects of metalsmithing.
In this class, you’ll explore:
Texture: Learn how to apply different textures to your metalwork.
Construction Techniques: Master the use of essential tools, including the torch, hand tools, cutting disc, texturing tools, hammer, and tumble polisher.
Design Freedom: Create unique earrings in your choice of shapes—circles, ovals, squares, or heart shaped. Customize your design with a variety of textures demonstrated during the class.
What You’ll Make: You’ll leave with a pair of stunning, handcrafted earrings that are uniquely yours. With options for different shapes and textures, each piece will reflect your individual style.
Class Details:
Duration: 3 hours
Location: Artworks Center for Contemporary Art, Downtown Loveland
Capacity: Small, sometimes one-on-one experience (no more than 3 students in each class).
Perfect For:
Beginners who want to dive into the world of silversmithing
Couples looking for a creative and fun activity
Gift-givers who want to create something truly special
Join us for a memorable evening of creativity, craftsmanship, and fun. You’ll be amazed at what you can create with your own two hands! Sign up today and start your journey in the art of silversmithing.
These earrings were some of my best sellers, I couldn’t make them fast enough. I’m sharing this design (and many other options) with you in this workshop. Beginners are encouraged to join this class!
Students will work with hand tools, sterling silver wire and sheet metal, Flower punch, soldering, and texture. These can be made with bi-metals or sterling silver (or both). Make them as long or as wide as you want & use a flower or domed circle.
There are lots of ways to make this earring your own unique version, with a smaller hoop, a round hoop, the flower can even be on tip with a post. Also texture is a wonderful way to make this earring unique.
Bring a friend & make memories together!
