Blue drusy and sterling silver pendant created by Diane Barnes in our silversmith class

About our classes - class length given in the listings is approximate. We anticipate every student will leave class with a finished project. Our classes take as long as necessary to complete a project - we do NOT end a class simply because "time's up". If a class requires a follow-up session to complete a project, we do not charge for that session. Our goal is to have our students learn a new skill and have fun while doing it.

There are sheets at the front desk with lists of the different classes. Please put your name and phone number (e-mail if you wish) on them so that we have an idea of the interest in each class. Your name on the lists does NOT commit you to attending the class, we just want to know if there are enough people interested to make it worth holding the class. If you don't sign the interest sheets, don't complain if we don't have a class you want!

We ask our students to act with courtesy and common sense. Some of our instructors have immune system issues and we don't want them to get sick. If you are sick or if you think you are coming down with something, DO NOT COME TO CLASS!!! Make-up sessions will be available at no charge. Hand sanitizers will be available at every class, please use them liberally!

Regarding fees: Class fees are payable at the time of registration. A full refund will be given if you cancel at least 24 hours prior to class. Day of class cancellations and no-shows = no refund. It's your responsibility to know your schedule when you sign up for a class, and it's your responsibility to cancel in a timely manner. Some classes have waiting lists and your courtesy will allow someone else to take the class if you need to cancel.

If your class has several sessions or if you have an ongoing project, there are lockers in the classroom where you may store your project between classes.

Students are expected to behave in a safe and responsible manner. Anyone who chooses to ignore the rules or the instructions of the teacher can and will be asked to leave and will not receive a refund. (I hated to put this in because I know that most people are responsible, but a few bad apples spoil it for everyone.)

Students are allowed and encouraged to bring a bottle of water or a beverage for the class, if desired. The coffee pot is always on, or we have herbal and decaffeinated tea or hot chocolate available, too. For full day classes, students may bring a lunch (fridge and microwave available) or there are several restaurants nearby or with delivery service to the store.

We give a discount for supplies at registration and on the day of class. Class discounts cannot be applied toward class fees, Swarovski crystals, sterling silver or gold filled findings and some tools. We appreciate students purchasing class supplies here at the store, but do not require it. Whenever possible, we will supply a list of items needed and are happy to make suggestions to help achieve the desired finished project. HOWEVER, if a student uses materials purchased elsewhere, we are not responsible for disappointing results.

                                                                    
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.