Cuttlefish Casting

Class level:
Beginners welcome. No experience needed.

Outline:
For this class we use the big torches. For those who have not yet used a Smiths Little torch or the propane gas torches, you will be inducted into the use of them. But have no fear, they are simple to use and there is always a tutor on hand when you use them.

We will provide everything needed for this class - an amount of silver casting grain, tools, and cuttlefish - needed for the class.

You will begin by either carving out your own design into the soft cuttlefish or you can press a charm into it to create an outline of the item. You will be shown how to cut a pouring vent, and add air vents, before sealing the cuttlefish with binding wire. Then it time for some fun as you melt your silver in a crucible before pouring it into your cuttlefish mould. The exciting part is opening your cuttlefish to see your finished casting.

There will be time to clean, file and polish your piece before turning it into a wearable piece of jewellery.

We will provide all the tools, cuttlefish and an amount of silver casting grain. You are welcome to bring any of your own silver scrap to melt down too. You can purchase additional grain from your preferred silver supplier or from Cooksongold, which is where we purchase ours.
www.cooksongold.com/Grain-and-Casting-Pieces/9999-Silver-Grain-prcode-ASF-000N&query=silver%20grain&channel=uk

Alternatively, you can purchase silver grain from Tracy on the day. Prices are dependant on silver at the time.
If you let Tracy know 1 week in advance, she can also order silver for you. Silver prices change daily, so prices will be dependant on silver prices are at the time of ordering.

You can also bring a small item you'd like to cast in silver, E.g. a small charm, a plastic piece like a bit of lego - something hard which can be pressed into the cuttlefish. We do also have lots of charms here you which you could use. Alternatively you can just carve your design into the soft cuttlefish.

The class will run for 4 - 5 hours.

PLEASE NOTE!
ABSOLUTELY NO ALUMINIUM OR PEWTER TO BE USED. SILVER ONLY

What is provided:

All tools needed for this class
Cuttlefish
Crucibles and and tongs
Leather aprons, safety gloves and safety goggles
An amount of silver

What to to Bring:

Although an allocation of silver grain will be provided, you are welcome to bring your own scrap silver or grain. Please note, we cannot melt down pewter or aluminium. Silver only.
A small charm/toy/shell, twig etc. to use for mould making. We do have lots of items you can use. Or you can carve you own design in the clay or cuttlefish
Spectacles, if needed for close up work.
Notebook and pencil. Although we do provide some hand outs, you may want to take your own notes or draw sketches.

T&C's:
This is a workshop environment, so your well being and safety is important to us. To ensure this is a safe - but fun environment for you to learn in; we ask that you please:

Wear comfortable old clothing, or bring an apron. Ear defenders and safety glasses are provided.
Long hair to be tied back.
No loose flowing scarves, long sleeves or jewellery to be worn. These can easily get caught up in machinery.
Closed flat shoes - no sandals allowed.

Refreshments:

Unlimited Tea, coffee and biscuits provided.

Tutors: Tracy Hills and Keith Taylor
Price: £ 90.00
Dates: To be confirmed 2022 Dates to be confirmed
Time: 1.00 - 17.00 (We can run later if you have not completed your piece)

Any queries, or if you should want to order silver grain from Tracy, please , please do not hesitate to contact her.
Phone: 07814 883 443
Email: metalandflame.co.uk