Metal Clay, Metal, Wire and Lampwork Classes
Classes are taught from my home studio but most of my classes are held at the store(s) indicated on the Calendar page.
Over the years, many people have asked if I teach classes. It wasn't until 2007 that I even considered it but I'm so glad I made that leap. What I've realized is that I really enjoy teaching and sharing what I learn. Teaching pushes me to continue experimenting and trying new techniques which keeps me from getting stagnant. I feel I have to keep up to date to teach my students, it's a constant challenge and life without challenges is very boring.
I also love the interaction I have with my students. I find myself energized and motivated by my students who have also become good friends. I know first-hand how exciting it is to have that “light bulb" moment when doing something new and I'm thrilled when a student that I'm teaching has that same experience. So, if you think you would like to learn how to make this type of jewelry, you can contact the stores where I teach or send me an email and I will be happy to talk with you about my class offerings.
I'm a Level II Certified Precious Metal Clay, Metalsmith & Lampwork artist and I'm very pleased to offer you a variety of classes using my experience and knowledge from the past 12 years. My metal clay, metal, wire & lampwork classes are designed to be fun, flexible, informative and inspiring. These classes are hands-on and you'll be making something that you can take home. You will learn the techniques needed to create a specific project with your own unique style incorporated into the design. Please check the selection below of my current classes and either sign-up accordingly or if you'd like any further info, please contact me.
Lately, I've been expanding my skills in combining traditional silversmithing techniques with my metal clay designs as well as metal clay combined with other materials including polymer clay. So, please stay tuned for some really cool classes!!
Precious Metal Clay, PMC, is an exciting material originally developed in Japan during the 1990's by Mitsubishi Materials of Japan. Microscopic particples are mixed with water and binder to create a clay-like substance that when fired in a kiln or with a torch becomes a dense metallic object. Metal clays come in a few different metals to work with: fine silver, 22K gold, copper, and bronze. Fired PMC work can be polished, soldered, enameled, and enjoyed like any other silver item.
Student must be at least 18 years old to register for these classes.
Hover over images to enlarge
| Examples |
Workshop Title |
Description |
Fee & Materials |
Skill Level |
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PMC® Create-a-Charm Taught by Robin Koza
Available Class Dates |
This class is a precursor to the Viking Knit class as you'll be making charms to dangle from your Viking Knit Woven Chain or any chain you'd like. Students will be able to make several one-of-a-kind fine silver charms using the PMC® supplied. Charms are made by cutting, stamping and texturing the clay. You may also add embellishments to create dimension. Students will learn to refine and finish their charms. We will be firing the charms in a kiln, antiquing and tumbling them so they're ready to add to your Viking Knit bracelet or any chain you'd like.(Prior PMC® experience helpful, but not necessary) |
$75 (Previous students receive 10% off) ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED: (1) 18g pack of PMC+; 3 hour class; Tools provided for use in class. |
All Skill Levels |
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Viking Knit Woven Chain Taught by Robin Koza
Available Class Dates |
Learn this age-old technique of Viking Knit by weaving fine gauge wire around a mandrel to create a woven chain. The woven chain is then pulled through a drawplate to create a gorgeous bracelet! You'll also learn several variations on the weave. You'll be amazed at how easy the weave is and how impressive it looks. Once you've made one, you can use this technique to make many more bracelets, earrings or necklaces. |
$85 ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED: Silver Wire, End Caps, Jump Rings, Drawplate, Mandrels; 4.5 hour class; Tools provided for use in class. |
All Skill Levels |
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Copper Etched Riveted Cuff Taught by Robin Koza
Available Class Dates |
Learn to etch your own original design into copper & brass sheet metal. You will be creating an awesome cuff in class along with some additional textured metal to use in your own projects like pendants, earrings, bead caps, etc... You’ll have fun learning this great technique and be amazed at how wonderful your cuff turned out.
Please note: Etching is messy. If you really love your manicure and/or hate to get your hands dirty, this is not the workshop for you because we’ll be filing and sanding and using chemicals. Please wear clothing that you won’t mind if they get stained or wear an apron. |
$100 ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED: Copper & Brass Sheet Metal, Leather, Rivets; 6 hour class; Tools provided for use in class. |
All Skill Levels |
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PMC® Chain-Link Bracelet Taught by Robin Koza
Available Class Dates |
We will construct & texturize solid, seamless chain links and a toggle bar clasp to create a simple yet elegant bracelet. FYI...This bracelet is constructed from 100% PMC®. |
$165 ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED: (1) 50g pack of PMC3®, 4-5 hour class; Tools provided for use in class. |
Prior PMC® experience necessary; Advanced Skill Level |
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BronzClay Rustic Rocks Bracelet Taught by Robin Koza & Shelly Oswalt
Available Class Dates |
This is a great class to learn how to make a hollow lentil bead & discs made from BronzClay, textured on both sides and strung with semi-precious stones. My friend, Shelly, and I will demystify this new metal clay for you so come learn about BronzClay, which is similar to Precious Metal Clay (PMC) but WAY cooler!! When your pieces are fired, you will have a lovely warm bronze color. On the second day, you'll also learn how to bring out some awesome colors on your piece.
The BronzClay takes much longer to fire than PMC. Therefore, this is a two-part class that will continue on a second day. We'll be firing your pieces after class and you will be completing your bracelet on the second day. |
$85 ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED: BronzClay, Semi-Precious Gemstones, Stinging Material; 3 hour class & 1.5 hour class (4-5 hours total); Tools provided for use in class. |
All Skill Levels |
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BronzClay Toggle & Leaf Pendant Taught by Robin Koza & Shelly Oswalt
Available Class Dates |
In this class you'll be making a gorgeous focal toggle and leaf pendant as well as discs made from BronzClay, textured on both sides and hung on a beautiful Vintaj double chain. This piece is stunning!! I will be teaching this class with my friend, Shelly, and you'll learn all the tips & tricks for working this new metal clay!! When your pieces are fired, you will have a lovely warm bronze color. On the second day, you'll also learn how to bring out some awesome colors on your piece by torch firing.
The BronzClay takes much longer to fire than PMC. Therefore, this is a two-part class that will continue on a second day. We'll be firing your pieces after class and you will be completing your bracelet on the second day. |
$85 ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED: BronzClay, Vintaj Chain & Jump Rings; 3 hour class & 1.5 hour class (4-5 hours total); Tools provided for use in class. |
All Skill Levels |
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All Wrapped Up Bracelet Taught by Robin Koza & Shelly Oswalt
Available Class Dates |
Come and learn how to work with wire. This class is a combination of wireworking skills from learning how to make wrapped loops, how to coil and wrap wire along with creating our wire Cyclone beads. We'll be putting all these components together to create this awesome bracelet!! |
$85 ALL MATERIALS INCLUDED: Viking Knit Segment, Ceramic beads, bronze & brass wire, bronze/brass & copper components, seed beads and copper etched pieces; 3.5 hour class; Tools provided for use in class. |
All Skill Levels |
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