General Information

1. What is a jewellery workshop?
   A hands-on session where participants learn techniques to make their own jewellery under James’ guidance, we specialise in re-working your own metals, creating one item from another. 

2. Who can attend the workshop?
   The workshop is open to beginners, enthusiasts, or professionals looking to utilise and refine their skills. No prior experience is necessary unless specified.

3. What types of jewellery will we learn to make?
   This depends on what you would like to make, common options include moulding and sand casting a signet ring or a rounded curio such as a shell or pebble collected on a memorable walk. Alternatively, you can melt your precious family gold or silver pouring it into an ingot and learning to roll it into a sheet or wire to create something you can cherish, wear or give to a loved one, a ring earrings, key ring or pendant. James has lots of books and pictures to inspire you.

4. How long is the workshop?
   The workshop lasts for 4 hours, we can stop for a cup of tea and or hot sausage sandwich or work through depending on how you want to spend your time.

1. Are there refreshments?
   Yes.  There is tea and coffee on arrival and we will have a hot roll and soft drink or tea and coffee, or you can of course bring your own snacks to keep you going.

Materials 

1. Are materials provided?
   If you want to transform your old jewellery you will need to bring a piece of Hallmarked silver or gold to rework and reimagine.

• Sterling Silver – 925

• Gold - 9,14 or 18 carat.

• Suggested weight - minimum 10g for gold and 25g for silver, It really depends on what you would like to make in the 4 hours

1. What if I don’t have any silver or gold to bring with me?
   James has a supply of hallmarked silver spoons you can buy on the day and use to re-create something new.  Or he can pre-order gold requirement.  Just let us know when you book, and James will arrange everything and confirm the additional cost. 

2. Can I make more than 1 piece of jewellery?
   We advise you to get in touch with us beforehand and give us a heads up on the workshop you are attending. We can then talk you through your options and the additional charges. (Please note that this is subject to your speed and ability within the class time frame.)

Tools and experience

1. Will tools be provided?
   Yes, we will provided all the tools and jewellery making equipment that you need. 

2. Do I get to take the jewellery I make?
   Absolutely! The pieces you create are yours to keep.

3. Will there be detailed instructions provided?
   Yes, James will provide step-by-step guidance to help you create something wonderful for you to keep.

Booking and Payment

1. How do I book a spot for the workshop?
   Booking is typically done online through the workshop website (here). (Naomi to insert a link to booking site)

2. What is the cost of the workshop?
   Prices are £245 for 1 person and £345 for 2 people. 

3. Is there a refund policy if I can't attend?
   Refund policies vary; please check specific terms when booking.

Other questions

1. Can I bring my friend, partner, mother, child, or pet to watch in on the class? Unfortunately, we only have enough space for two people within the workshop. We like to know that everyone who enters our creative and intimate space is there to participate, as it’s all part of the experience, 

2. Can my child attend the workshop ?
   Under 16s are very welcome to attend if they are doing the 2 people workshop and are accompanied by an adult who has booked on to the course as the second attendee. The workshop is not suitable for anyone under the age of 8 years old.

3. I’m pregnant, can I still take part in the workshop? The only chemical we use in some of our workshops is a very diluted form of acid called Safety pickle which removes the fire stain from the silver and gold. Tweezers are used to handle the metal in this process so you won’t come into contact with it but please note that Safety pickle is a chemical that can be harmful to people and the environment. While it's generally considered a mild solution, it can still cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation.  Please do contact James if you would like to discuss further. 

   We would just point out that there is hammering, filing, piercing (sawing) and naked flames involved in our workshops, so depending on how far along you are you may find this tiring. But we will be on hand to help you throughout the whole process!

4. Is the workshop accessible for individuals with disabilities?
   The workshop is accessible for people with disabilities – please contact James to discuss additional arrangements to ensure your comfort. Please note we have a gravel driveway but the workshop itself is flat. 

5. Can we buy a chain or fittings if we make a pendant, earrings or key ring?
   Yes of course. James will have a supply of additional silver items for sale. If you require anything specific please let him know in advance. 

6. Can we have our items hallmarked?
   Hallmarking takes approximately 10 days and would need to be sent off to the Assay office and then forwarded to you by registered post at an additional charge. If you would like to take your items away with you on the day and have supplied your own metal then that is absolutely fine.

7. What clothing should I wear?
   We are working in a beautiful very old insulated oak barn so please be sensible. James will supply wagtail workshop aprons to wear over your clothing.

8. Will James make the item for me?
   No, you are here to do the work. James is here to guide you through the process, If you would like to commission something please contact him directly (see commissions page)