12 Hour Classes
INSTRUCTOR: Pete Acquisto, Fellow
COURSE: Silversmithing/Machine Work
PROJECT: Tiffany Cake Server, circa 1885 (THIS CLASS IS FULL)
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This will be a great class with a very nice piece to take home. The server measures only ¾" in length. Students will use a dividing head in conjunction with the XY table on the mill to drill holes. The holes will make up the pierced pattern in the flat scoop portion of the cake server. This technique will produce a precision pattern with ease. The pattern will be simplified from the photo, but it will be very impressive. Students will then use a printed pattern as a guide to layout the engraved pattern on the scoop. A hand file will be used to create the leaf shape of the pierced holes. Then the students will use a scribe, a graver, and an Xacto knife to finish the design on the top of the scoop. Using the same hand tools, plus a mill grain wheel, students will create the design on the handle. The next step is to cut out the outline of the cake server with a jeweler’s saw or fret saw. Students will next use the flex shaft machine and small polishing wheels to refine the outline and polish the cake server. The finish up will be accomplished by bending the handle into shape and finally polishing it on the buffing machine. Students will be amazed at what they can do.
TIME: 12 hours. Completion is likely and there will be plenty of silver for those who finish early and want to make something else or just practice skills.
POWER TOOLS: flex shaft, mill, buffing machine
SKILL LEVEL: Beginner and intermediate. This class is designed for the person with no experience who wants to learn how to operate the equipment necessary in silversmithing. Intermediate students will find this class to be the perfect opportunity to learn new ways of working with silver while refining and perfecting existing skills.
MATERIALS FEE: $80 to be collected at school