Brass & Copper Decorative Techniques 2023

Instructor: Sara Gries
Class size: Maximum students: 8 Minimum students: 6
Location: Guilded Salvage Antiques, 4430 Lyndale Avenue North, Minneapolis, MN 55412
Description: Sara Gries will share what she’s learned from years of exploring/experimenting with brass and copper, specifically for this class the decorative potential of various processes: etching, creating patina (coloring) by means of chemical or heat reaction (“flame colouring”), plating and removal/abrasion. In addition, she will share tips for design (how to transfer your idea to the metal, how to make curves and fine areas appear visually smooth and balanced) and will demonstrate the practical application of cutting, piercing, and contouring techniques.
This is not a project class, but you’ll have several “samplers” to take home as you, too, explore the potential to apply these techniques to your jewelry, knife-making, tinwork, or copper smithing. There are no pre-requisite of skills for this class. Just bring your curiosity and safety glasses. We’d like to limit it this first time to adults, as chemicals and a micro-torch will be used for a few techniques.
Tools and Equipment or other items participants are to bring to the class: None
Safety Equipment: Safety glasses
Lunch Arrangements: Please bring your own
Acceptance will be based on the postmark date of the tuition check and membership status — Guild members have priority for registration—and will be confirmed by a letter.
To register for this class, send a check for $70 written to The Guild of Metalsmiths, along with your phone number and email address, to:
Christina Dodge christina.guildmbr@gmail.com
17645 Baugh St NW
Ramsey, MN 55303
Acceptance priority for this class will be determined by postmark.