Low Tech Gravity Casting

$360.00
Unit price per

Low Tech Gravity Casting
Instructor: Juan Reyes
August 10 and 11, Saturday and Sunday, 10:30 - 5:00
Class Fee: $360 | Kit Fee: $60

Class format: in studio at Danaca Design

Prerequisites: None

Class Description:

Learn the fundamentals of casting by exploring the exciting and ancient technique of pouring molten metal directly into molds made from organic materials, sand and soft stone. This process does not require a centrifugal setup or any major equipment, so it is easily reproduced in a home studio or in your back yard! This workshop will cover carving a mold and casting into tufa (light-weight sandstone), creating a quick mold in cuttlefish bone, a material easily found at any pet store producing a lovely texture, and sandcasting, an ancient way to reproduce an object. Students will also explore casting into other organic materials for surprising effects! Rudimentary alloying, pouring an ingot, finishing techniques and safety will all be discussed. Bring your clean silver scraps if you have some.

No experience necessary.

Materials INCLUDED:

3"x3" tufa stone block
1 large or 2 smallish matching cuttle fish bone
1oz ancient bronze casting grain
1oz sterling casting grain or clean scrap

Students MUST Bring:

N95 Dust mask
Closed toe shoes

Students MAY Bring:

A small object to mold that you think would be nice to reproduce in metal for jewelry like a shell or button, not too complex, 1/4" - 1"
Clean silver scrap (no solder on it!) or silver casting grain (available for purchase in studio store).

Instructor Bio:

Juan Reyes began studying silver smithing in 1995 at North Seattle Community College and since then has developed extensive expertise in a wide range of techniques including lapidary and goldsmithing. He is generous with his knowledge, patient beyond measure and well loved for his helpful, non-judging nature. Juan brings warmth and creativity to every class he teaches.

Lear more about Juan, click HERE.

What students are saying:

"Juan is a very experienced and highly creative jeweler, and he knows many ways to solve jewelry-making dilemmas, from the most basic to the odd and complicated. He is warm-hearted and generous with his time and attention." - Claire, 2/23

Tools are available to purchase through Danaca Design Studio with 15% student discount code. Shop tools HERE. If you don’t see what you need please email us, dana@danacadesign.com.

Review our class cancellation policy HERE.

All students must fill out and electronically submit the Danaca Design COVID-19 Studio Safety Protocol and Waiver form before attending class.