CLASS DESCRIPTION

Learn how to turn small items such as twigs, leaves, seashells and other small objects into copper! This process is called electro-forming and we will take you through each step to ensure you have the confidence you need to understand this process. We will seal objects before coating with a conductive paint prior to immersing them in a special solution which will allow the magic of electro-forming to occur.

Once this is mastered, students have the opportunity to also then electroplate their copper items in Nikel Silver, Fine Silver or Gold by using the same equipment but changing the solutions and anodes required.

These processes normally require a large set up in a commercial setting. However, we use Sherri Haab's excellent E'Forming electrical unit which allows for small jewellery items to be successfully completed by you in a home setting at a fraction of the cost of a commercial set up. These units do not require user intervention.

SJS is one of the only places in Australia who teaches this technique, particpants come from all over Australia and New Zealand. This class is only held twice a year, so we strongly recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. This class allows for a maximum of 8 participants only.

SKILL PREREQUISITE

No experience is required. This class is open to all.

ESSENTIAL TECHNIQUES COVERED

* Correct preparation and sealing of botanical/organic items

* Correct coverage of conductive paints

* How to "rig up' your item in preparation for immersion

* How to e'form in copper

* How to elctroplate in Nikel Silver, Silver and Gold

* Overview of all equipment used, different anode and solution use

* OH&S procedures and requirements

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

* Tuition

* Notes ( soft copy)

* Shared supplies of solutions, varnishes and conductive paint

* Use of e'forming units during the class

* Comprehensive guidance in troubleshooting

WHAT TO BRING AND MATERIAL FEE

There is NO MATERIAL FEE : your materials fee is included in the class cost.

Please BRING WITH YOU:

* 3-5 small pieces to electroform These should be no bigger than 5 x 2cm approx.

* See general information regarding pre-sealing of items.

GENERAL INFORMATION

* Items require time to allow the sealant to dry completely, normally overnight, being a one day class this will require you to do some pe-preparation of your items. You will be sent comprehensive instructions on how to seal your items, This is not a difficult task. We recommend Modge Podge all purpose sealant for this purpose. You will need to purchase your own sealant. ( Allow around $10) this is available at most craft shops or via our sister company, The Eclectic Studio.

* The units used for e'forming/plating will be available at the studio for purchase on the day and you will be able to pre-order a unit if you so wish. Please note that the solutions can not be posted by air, a ground courier is required, we are only able to supply solutions to mainland Australia.

*OH&S protocols at SJS require all students to wear CLOSED IN shoes, and for long hair to be tied back. We recommend glasses are worn instead of contact lenses and the wearing of jewellery be kept to a minimum when working within a studio environment.

PREVIOUS STUDENTS HAVE SAID

"Ever since seeing a beautifully electropted piece in a store I've wanted to learn how it was done. This course showed me how and gave me the skills and knowledge to successfully plate a leaf skeleton and a feather in gold. When that feather came out of the plating solution and glinted in the afternoon sun I knew I had to keep exploring. My next plating project is already under way. " Murray Henstock

"I had searched for a long time to find someone to teach me how to do electroforming, and then I found you all. It was worth every cent of my airfare from Perth. Roz was so helpful and we really worked through all the things that can go wrong. Books are good but first hand knowledge is better. So thankful that I found you and can access all my supplies from you. I just wish you were in W.A. there are so many classes you do that no one else does." Gillain Hague