Blue drusy and sterling silver ring created by Diane Barnes in our silversmith class
CLASS INFORMATION
SILVERSMITHING - Our silversmith classes cover all ranges from beginner basics to advanced techniques. Our instructor is Dennison Tsosie, "The Navajo Silversmith". Dennison learned silversmithing from his grandfather. He began at the age of 8, pumping the bellows for his grandfather's forge. His years of experience have taught him patience and attention to detail - hallmarks of fine jewelry making. His exquisite work has been exhibited in galleries and shows across the Southwest.
PHILIPPINE WEAVING - taught by Jill. This simple technique is versatile. It can have a casual look with seed beads and simple findings or it can become elegant and sophisticated with a different choice of seed beads and adding accents like pearls and focal beads.
WIRE WRAPPING - Free form wire wrap your own stones or cabochons. Pam
teaches basic wire wrapping (hippie wrap and cabochon wrap) to create wrapped cabochons as well as bracelets, earrings or rings. There are 5 different wire wrap classes. Classes are approximately 2
1/2 to 3 hours and students will leave with at least 1 finished item. Most classes will have 2 or more completed projects. Class fee is $37.50 and includes silver plated and gold plated or colored wire, accent beads and use of
our tools. If you have a project you'd like to do, let us know.
KUMIHIMO - this Japanese weaving technique has become increasingly popular with beaders over the last few years. This class takes 2 1/2 to 3 hours from start to finish, including the time to string approximately 9' of seed beads using bead spinners. Class includes use of our loom and bead spinner in the store. Class discount does not apply to purchase price of a loom. Class fee $35.00 and does not include materials. This class is available as a private lesson on your schedule - please call for information.
ART CLAY SILVER - will be taught by Polly Hayes. Learn the techniques of making your own creations by sculpting and shaping Art Clay Silver. Polly is a popular instructor and has taught at the Apache Junction Multigeneration Center. Her classes fill quickly. Class fee is $55.
BASIC STRINGING AND OTHER BEADING TECHNIQUES - cost of this class is FREE!! (Not including materials, of course.) Learn how to do a crimp correctly or master that pesky gallery wrap technique to finish your earrings with a professional look. Learn the difference between .018 flex wire and 18 gauge wire and which one is best for your project. When are the classes scheduled? Whenever you have an hour or two to play with beads - just stop in and say, "How do I make a ... (fill in the blank)?" or "Will you help me ...?". No reservations necessary, as long as there isn't a class using the worktable. Beginners are our specialty!
JEWELRY MAKEOVER - gather up your old, outdated or even broken beaded jewelry, chains, etc. Get a few friends to do the came and come in prepared to create new wardrobes of updated and one of a kind jewelry - made by YOU! No charge, except for materials used. Call Deb to reserve workspace. Class discounts may apply.
OPEN BEADING - EVERY DAY - ALL DAY - FREE!!! (Unless classes are scheduled,of course.) You are always welcome to bring in your project and work on it, get feedback from other beaders and have fun. Spend as little as a few minutes, or hang out for an hour or two! Deb's even been known to share popcorn or ice cream bars or call out for pizza during open beading sessions.