Tuition: $175 one full-day session. Registration deadline: Nov. 1 at midnight, ET.
DATE: Sat. , Nov. 7 (9 AM - 5 PM)
Come play with fire, silver, and sand while creating your own one-of-a-kind sterling silver ring!
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the basics of sand casting as you create a mold, melt sterling silver, and pour your very own ring. You’ll work alongside the instructor through the casting process, then learn how to file, sand, and polish your ring to finish it just the way you like.
Want to add a little sparkle? You’ll have the option to cast a raw sapphire right into your ring for a truly unique, organic look. Raw sapphires will be available, or you’re welcome to bring your own 4–5 mm cubic zirconia to experiment with.
Sterling silver scrap will be available for purchase at the current market rate, or bring your own sterling silver to give it a new life! Broken sterling jewelry, sterling scrap, and some silver coins may be suitable for casting. We’ll check your silver before melting to make sure it can be safely used. NOTE: As a reference, the current sterling silver market value as of 9/16 is approx. $66.75 per troy ounce. The actual cost charged to students will be calculated using the applicable market price on the day of the class and the weight of silver required for their project.
Sand casting is beautifully unpredictable — expect texture, little imperfections, and plenty of personality. That’s part of the fun! No two rings will ever come out exactly alike.
No previous casting experience is needed. Come ready to experiment, get your hands dirty, and leave with a sterling silver ring that is completely your own.
NOTE: Participants should bring a bag lunch.
Gina Copanzzi began making jewelry in her teens when metalsmithing classes were offered at her high school. After years of formal training, she has spent the past 20 years refining her skills as a metalsmith through extensive study with a variety of accomplished artists and masters.
Gina feels most able to express her artistic vision through forming and shaping metal. Each piece of jewelry is the result of years of practice, hard work, determination, and experimentation. Her work begins with something as simple as a sheet of metal or a length of wire and evolves into a one-of-a-kind piece of artisan jewelry.
Throughout her journey, Gina has been inspired and influenced by many accomplished artists. She believes strongly in giving back by sharing her knowledge and experience with emerging artists. She regularly teachs classes at the Delaplaine Visual Arts Center, Frederick Community College, The Clay and Metal Loft, Common Ground on the Hill, Kettle Creek Pottery, and other venues.
