Sometimes it seems like there is no good way to prop up a project to reach that hard to get solder joint. Here are a few user friendly ways that might help.

1. The Third Hand
A bench staple that provides a grip to elevate the work, the third hand comes in handy.
2. Chunks of Brick
Recycle that old firebrick by chipping off chunks of different sizes. These can now be used as props to position your project.
3. Solder Armatures
A piece of steel binding wire fashioned into a coil makes a fine holder while soldering. Learn how to make a soldering armature here.
For more handy tips go here...

Can't wait? There are still a few spaces left in the 5 week course, Beginning Silversmithing starting Feb 18! Register here. And Discover Silversmithing 2 on Feb 17 & 18, register here.

Registration for Spring & Summer classes and workshops starts Febraury 13th. Here are the first offerings for the month of March.

Discover Silversmithing 1
Next workshop: March 3,4 Wed, Thurs, 10:30 am- 1:30pm.
Handcraft your own silver jewelry while learning the basics of silver fabrication techniques. Skills learned include the use of an acetylene torch, soldering, sawing, forging, and fusion. Create 3 pieces of finished silver jewelry of your own design. This workshop makes you eligible for open studio time.
Materials fee $25.

Discover Silversmithing 2
Next workshop: March 17,18  Wed, Thurs, 10:30 am- 1:30pm.
Learn more advanced techniques in silver surface texturing and bezel setting gemstones with more creative freedom in this follow-up workshop. Good jewelry composition will be explored. Must have completed Discover Silversmithing I, or a Silver Saturday. This workshop makes you eligible for open studio time.
Materials fee $25.

Beginning Silversmithing
Next class: April 15-May 20 (5 week course) Thursdays 6:30-9:30 $365.00
Handcraft your own silver jewelry while learning the basics of silver fabrication techniques. Learn how to use an acetylene torch, soldering, sawing, forging, and fusion as well as stone setting. Explore good jewelry composition. This course makes you eligible for open studio time. Materials fee based on individual projects.

Silver Saturdays:
Next Saturday Workshop: Organic Things
March 13, 10:30-4:30
Create 3 pieces of silver jewelry while learning the basics of silversmithing fabrication. Learn to use an acetylene torch, soldering, forging and fusion. Demo includes incorporating organic found objects like wood or beach glass. Bring a bag lunch and your creativity! This workshop makes you eligible for open studio time. Materials fee $25.

More dates for upcoming classes and workshops available here.

The Art & Craft of Making Jewelry, by Joanna Gollberg.
This beautiful book is a great source of step-by-step info on specific techniques and process. Clear photos with concise instruction makes this great for the beginner as well as a refresher for the seasoned smith. I really love this book!
more books to consider... 

Word-of-the-Month
Bezel
Surrounding a stone with a collar of metal to create a setting.Commonly used with cabochon stones.
read more terms...

A classy piece of jewelry, this chain will get all sorts of compliments. But you won't want to share how easy it is to make.
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Blair Anderson is an artist in residence at Glen Echo Park, MD.
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