THE FOUNDATION SERIES

Beginning Silversmithing Workshop

Discover the timeless art of silversmithing and create a beautiful, handcrafted sterling silver gemstone cuff in this immersive, full-day workshop.

Saturday, July 18
10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

TUITION: $165

Plus Materials Fee: $49 (paid to instructor)

REGISTER THRU THE APPALACHIAN ARTS CRAFT CENTER

WORKSHOP LOCATION: Studio Navarri North/East Knoxville

STERLING SILVER BEZEL SET GEMSTONE CUFF

If you've ever admired handcrafted jewelry and wondered how it's made, this is the perfect place to begin. Designed specifically for beginners, this workshop introduces you to the traditional techniques professional jewelers use every day, while guiding you step-by-step through the creation of your own sterling silver cuff bracelet.

Under the guidance of artisan jeweler Francesca Faucette, who brings over 24 years of professional bench experience, you'll gain hands-on experience using professional jeweler's tools and learn the "why" behind every process—not simply how to complete a project.

Throughout the day, we'll uncover many of the mysteries that new silversmiths often find intimidating. You'll learn the purpose of flux, the differences between hard, medium, easy, and extra-easy solders, and when to use each one. We'll discuss pickle, why it's an essential part of the soldering process, and how to use it safely. You'll also learn about torch flames, heat control, oxidation, metal preparation, and the techniques that make solder flow cleanly and consistently.

In addition to creating your cuff, we'll explore the tools found on a jeweler's bench. You'll learn what each tool does, which ones are essential for beginners, and which purchases can wait until later. Francesca will also demonstrate how to set up a safe, efficient, and affordable home silversmithing studio without investing hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in equipment. You'll leave knowing exactly what you need to continue your new hobby with confidence.

During This Workshop You'll Learn

• Professional jewelry bench safety
• Torch safety and flame control
• The purpose and application of flux
• Understanding hard, medium, easy, and extra-easy solders
• Why and how to use pickle safely
• Proper preparation of metal before soldering
• Beginning silver soldering techniques
• Forming and shaping sterling silver
• Creating decorative wire-wrapped accents
• Basic bezel gemstone setting
• Filing, sanding, polishing, and professional finishing
• Professional tricks for clean solder seams and strong joints
• How to build an inexpensive home jewelry studio
• Which tools are essential—and which ones can wait

This workshop is about much more than making a bracelet. It provides a solid foundation in traditional silversmithing that you can build upon for years to come. Whether your goal is to create jewelry for yourself, design gifts for friends and family, or begin a new artistic journey, you'll leave with both a beautiful, finished cuff and the confidence to continue creating.

No Experience Necessary

Class size is intentionally kept small, so every student receives plenty of personal instruction. Come prepared to learn, ask questions, and experience the satisfaction of transforming raw sterling silver into a handcrafted heirloom. You'll leave not only with a beautiful bracelet but also with the knowledge and confidence to begin your own silversmithing journey.

About Your Instructor

Francesca Faucette has been designing artisan jewelry for more than 24 years, teaching students from beginners to professional artists throughout the Southeast. Her passion is preserving traditional jewelry-making techniques while helping students discover their own artistic voice in a relaxed, inspiring studio environment.

What to Bring

• Closed-toe shoes
• Comfortable clothing (dress for a mess!)
• Hair tie for long hair
• Reading glasses if needed

Everything else is provided.

DURATION: 8 HOURS with a lunch break

LIMITED Seats Available

To ensure personalized instruction, class size is limited to 5. Early registration is recommended.

LAST DAY TO REGISTER: Monday, July 13

TOUR STUDIO NAVARRI

TO REGISTER, MAKE YOUR CHOICE BELOW, AND BE SURE TO PROVIDE YOUR NAME, EMAIL, AND PHONE in case we need to contact you for schedule changes, inclement weather decisions, etc. We'll email you a confirmation, along with the street address.

PLEASE NOTE: REGISTRATION IS FOR ONE STUDENT: each student must be registered, paid in their name, and provide contact info.

You can leave any other important info in the message box during checkout.

 
CANCELLATION POLICY
STUDIO NAVARRI allows cancellations to class reservations up to 48 hours before the scheduled class time. Reservations canceled more than 48 hours in advance will be issued a refund minus $5 for the credit card processing fee {if applicable}, or you may receive full credit toward rescheduling a future class. Please submit a cancellation through email to StudioNavarri@gmail.com
 

EMAIL: StudioNavarri @gmail.com

TEXT ONLY: 615-557-7952