I had my two classes today, and I not only learned a lot but had a great time! :D First up was the brass and copper Arts & Crafts firescreen in a class by Bill Studebaker. This class started out with a bang…well three of us banging ball pein hammers on copper metal sheets on metal anvils on a wooden table. Just a little loud! :O When every person taking other classes in the room stopped and stared, we decided we should move outside for that part. :D Good thing it was a nice day out.
It was great to work with metal and learn soldering, both of which I had never done before. Our class ran long, and we didn’t get to finish our screens, but I am nearly there.
As a reminder, here is the class photo showing the finished item.
I need to blacken the finish and add the actual screen. I’m very pleased with the results considering I am a complete novice with these materials and methods. I plan to buy a soldering tool soon. This has really opened up a lot of possibilities to me.
For size reference, here it is in the Heritage, though it isn’t meant for this house.
Right after class, Keli and I had a nice dinner at the hotel and then we both took a class on using a jeweler’s saw taught by Diane Almeyda. This, too, was a great class. I learned a lot and again will definitely be using these techniques in the future. Diane offered the tool set for sale in the class, too…very convenient
My cuts got better as the night went on, but I had to quit early because I was just too sore and tired to go on. :D Sawing takes a lot out of you, even in mini! But, I came home with patterns and other materials to try.
Here are my pieces; we started with copper sheet. The order goes from right to left, and as you can see my cuts did become cleaner with practice. Sharp angles are my favorite, but I need more practice on curves.
