Silversmithing Basics 2025

REGISTRATION OPENS NOVEMBER 1, 9AM PACIFIC

What? Silversmithing Basics Workshop
When? March 24-28, 2025
Where? Winthrop, WA in my personal studio

This workshop is a 5-day intensive for beginning silversmiths. We will convene for 8 hours each day which includes a one-hour break for lunch.

Designed for beginners and those needing a refresher, this five-day thorough course will introduce students to the fundamentals of metalworking. Through demonstrations, individualized instruction, and plenty of practice, you will develop basic skills in sawing, filing, soldering, riveting, texturing, and polishing as well as in the safe use of tools and studio chemicals.

Five-day intensives give students an understanding of what is involved to work full-time as a silversmith.

The cost of the workshop will include
5 days of training and interaction
1 3x3" sheet of 22 gauge sterling silver
1 3x3" sheet of 24 gauge sterling silver
1 5 ft 16 gauge sterling silver wire
1 5 ft wire of 18 gauge sterling silver
1 3 ft wire of 20 gauge sterling silver
Silver solder

Should you require additional materials, please be sure to bring them with you to the workshop. You will find everything you need at Rio Grande. I will also have additional materials to purchase at wholesale cost, should you need.

All tools and equipment are included.

My studio space is well ventilated. However, I encourage you to bring your own eye/mouth/finger protection. For those students with long hair, be sure to tie it back when working with the torch. See below for a description of my studio.
Meals are not included.

Please note that I do not give students specific projects to complete. I offer many different demonstrations throughout the day, so you're welcome to copy my demonstrations or take the techniques to incorporate into your own designs. I encourage you to explore your own artistic expression.

Course Prerequisites include:
No experience necessary.

To Register
The cost for this 5-day intensive is $900.
Once I have received your payment, your space will be confirmed.
This workshop is first come, first serve. Space is limited.

Cancellation Policy:
25% of fee is considered non-refundable in cases of withdrawal for all students up to 30 days of the workshop. In other words, think carefully before reserving your spot!
Course fee is non-refundable within 30 days of the workshop unless I am able to fill the student's spot, in which case #1 above still applies.
If I cancel a class then 100% of your fee will be reimbursed.

Lodging, directions and information about the Methow Valley
River's Edge Resort - https://www.riversedgewinthrop.com/en-us
River Run Inn - https://riverrun-inn.com/
Chewuch Inn and Cabins (this is the closest option) - https://chewuchinn.com/
Mt. Gardner Inn - https://www.mtgardnerinn.com/en-us
N Cascades Mountain Hostel - https://www.northcascadesmountainhostel.com/
Spring Creek Ranch (cabin - also very close to my studio) - http://springcreekwinthrop.com/lodging/
RV Camping

Airports:
The closest airports are Wenatchee, Spokane, and Seattle, WA.

Information about the Methow Valley:
Below are some useful resources to learn about this stunningly picturesque area.
Winthrop, WA Chamber of Commerce
Methow Trails - access to miles and miles of nordic ski and summer hiking/biking trails.
Twisp, WA Chamber of Commerce
Loup Loup Ski Bowl - our local alpine ski area
Winter Fun Where The Olympians Train - Sunset Magazine feature
Hiking Guide - WA Trails Association
Old Schoolhouse Brewery - an old schoolhouse in downtown Winthrop with great food and live music

The Studio
My silversmithing studio is situated in a large warehouse-style building just outside of Winthrop, WA. It has ample lighting, open floor plan, with a garage door that generally remains open in warmer months. It is well ventilated and heated for all seasons. It is wheelchair accessible.
The address is:
6 Horizon Flats Road
Winthrop, WA 98862

My studio can accommodate up to 10 students - 10 Little Smith torches, 5 flex shafts, plenty of space to make noise and make yourself comfortable.

I do have a refrigerator and microwave if needed. Otherwise, there are plenty of restaurants and a grocery store in the vicinity for you to choose from.