Silvera Jewelry School

Wow, is it Tuesday already? I am still basking in the glow of all the fun I had on Saturday.

My friend, Judy, and I took a Spinner Ring Class at the Silvera Jewelry School in Berkley, California run by Joe and Anat Silvera.

 

Their jewelry studio is unbelievable. Your class fee includes everything, no, really everything. All your tools, flex shaft, apron and snacks. There’s no kit fee and parking is free. I was in heaven. Not only did I not have to drag my tools with me but Judy loves to drive so I didn’t have to do anything. I was spoiled rotten but hey, someone has to be. I’ll take the job.

Anat taught the class and Joe helped her. I love the way they work as a team. It is great for the students to have such a small class with lots of attention. Both of them are very good with people.

Joe Silvera is the author of Soldering Made Simple: Easy Techniques for Kitchen Table Jewelers.

They specialize in metalsmithing, enameling, cloisonne, and lost wax techniques and teach locally and all around the country including Bead and Button and Bead Fest. In fact, my friend Kumi took a class from them when we were in Milwaukee.

 



One of the things they have that is especially good for students is a camera that is focused on the piece that the instructor is making. The screen that the students see shows the work in closeup. You couldn't see that well even if your were standing right behind. My eyes are not very good anymore and that is one of my problems when taking a class. I just can't see even when we gather around. I have to rely on hearing and don't always get the whole process. You can see the screen right behind Anat's shoulder.

 

 

Both rings soldered

My finished ring

Our kit contained enough material to make three or four different rings. I decided to make a copper one first so I could make my mistakes on it. We also had silver sheet and more wire.

 

It was a great class. Everyone got at least one ring made and we laughed a lot.

 

 

Next month Judy and I are taking a Cloisonne class. It involves getting the sketch pad out and designing a couple of pieces. What should it be, a fish, a horse, a bird or Elvis? LOL

 

 



 

Have a fantastic week!

Julie Panusis