What is the course about?
This specialist short course which will focus on making ceramic beads for jewellery.
You will be guided through different techniques for making ceramic beads using specialist clays, coloured stains, and lustres. You will be taught about the different states of clay/ceramics including shrinkage, modelling techniques, marbling and glazing techniques using nichrome wire.
By the end of the three weeks you will have a small but unique collection of beads from which you can go onto to make earrings, necklaces and bracelets.
This course is suitable for both beginners and more advanced ceramic makers who have some experience of working with clay and would like to expand their skill set. It is perfect for those who are already interested in jewellery and would like to add a ceramic element and explore pigment and colour in ceramics.
Hand modelling, marbling/ Nerikomi clay techniques, colouring clay, and glazing and firing techniques.
Learners will receive feedback on progress from the tutor on a regular basis. At the end of the course learners will assess their individual progress and progression with the tutor.
All equipment, decoration and glaze materials are included, we do make a small charge (priced per kilo) for the clay used before the first firing only.
By the end of the course, you should have the knowledge to be able to make your own ceramic beads in a ceramic studio environment. You will have discussed with your tutor ways of threading and finishing your jewellery to complete your wearable ceramic pieces.
You can develop your skills further on one of our specialist short courses, or take an accredited course in Ceramics starting in April or September.
