Date: Sunday, Oct 25, 2026, 1:30pm-4:30pm (CST)
Instructor: AJ Newell
Skill Level: Beginner
Class Description: Learn to make these fan-shaped fine silver earrings featuring tiny koi fish swimming through textured waves, finished with brilliant plated gold accents (optional) and wire-wrapped glass bead drops. Working in metal clay, you'll build the fan form, learn how to use mini-molds, apply pen plating (optional), and wire-wrap the glass bead. This beginner-friendly class introduces core metal clay fundamentals and a plating technique in a beautifully wearable project. No prior experience required.
Project Completion: Students who work quickly will have enough time to finish the project during the class time.
Torch: Instructor will be demonstrating using a butane torch.
Materials Kit:Enough material for one pair of earrings (Fine silver metal clay) 2 glass drop beads, bronze wire to wrap glass beads and make ear wires.
Domestic US shipping included. (Please contact instructor directly to arrange for international or expedited shipping fees.)
(Materials kit is included in price when "Zoom/Kit combo" or "Kit only" option is selected.*)
Required Tools and Supplies:
- Chain nose pliers
- Round nose pliers
- Flat nose pliers
- Side cutters (flush)
- Soldering set up includes: solder board, fire tweezers, quench bowl.
- Basic metal clay set up: roller, non stick work surface, 10 playing cards or depth measuring slats, scalpel or Xacto knife, fine paintbrush, fluffy paintbrush, sanding sponges and straight salon boards (nail file) of different grits, cup of water, release agent (cool slip, olive oil), piece of saran wrap/cling film.
- Drying set-up such as a mug warmer, food dehydrator or kitchen oven.
- Butane torch
- 1.5mm drill bit
- Magnifying glasses (as needed)
- Fine paintbrush
- Texture sheet - waves or concentric circles
- Tissue blade
- Liver of sulfur patina
- Graduated circle cutters
- Small container for making paste
- Vermiculite
- Koi fish mold
- Optional: Pepe (or other) plating pen and 24K gold plating solution
*Note: You must choose either a Zoom or Zoom/Kit combo to receive written instructions. Kits will begin to ship Oct. 8, 2026, unless otherwise arranged with instructor.
Zoom Recordings will be available for viewing until Nov. 4, 2026. Additional time may be purchased ($12) by selecting the "Extend viewing time" option above.