Beginning Through Advanced Metal Smithing. Focus on Soldering with Nancy Gardner

Ready to take your jewelry-making skills to the next level by learning how to solder? Soldering is the foundation of metal fabrication and can significantly expand both your technical abilities and your design confidence. This workshop will be divided into two sections — one for beginners and one for more advanced students. We will begin by covering the essential skills of metal fabrication, then put those skills into practice as you design and create your weekend project. I propose one of two project options: a ring or a pendant featuring a bezel-set cabochon stone. Both projects incorporate a variety of soldering challenges and fabrication techniques. All tools and copper sheet will be provided in class. Sterling silver and a selection of cabochon-cut stones will be available for purchase. You are also welcome to bring your own materials — perhaps a favorite pebble or piece of sea glass — to personalize your piece.

More advanced students are encouraged to bring their own challenging fabrication ideas. Together, we will refine the design, outline the necessary steps, and I will guide you through the process of bringing your piece to life. Completion of this workshop will qualify you to attend Tuesday Open Studio evenings at the Mendocino Art Center. Whether you are a complete beginner or a seasoned metalsmith, you will learn new techniques, gain bench tips drawn from 40 years of experience, and enjoy a creative and rewarding weekend.

Date: May 2 & 3
Times: Sat & Sun 9:30 - 4:30 pm w/ 1 hour lunch
Level: Beginning - Advanced
Price: $485
Membership Price:  $436.50 (Members use discount code MEMBERS10 at checkout to receive 10% off)
Optional $50 Materials Kit will be available for purchase at the workshop to be paid directly to the instructor.
Optional Soldering Kit includes: straight tweezers, self-locking tweezers, soldering pad, soldering pic, flux brush, square of sterling, and soft,medium, & hard solders.


About the instructor: 
Nancy Gardner has been fabricating fine art jewelry in silver and gold for over 35 years. She received her BA in metal smithing from Buffalo State College during which she spent a year of independent study at SACI – Studio Arts Center International in Florence, Italy. In 1983, she attended AR•CO, the first independent art school in Lisbon, Portugal, where she finalised her degree and completed a Master Metal Smithing certification. For the two years 2 following graduation she was a metal arts instructor at AR•CO in Lisbon. During her years in Europe, Nancy learned old world techniques from master crafts people and fell in love with the art of metalsmithing.

In 2001, Nancy opened Mendocino Jewelry Studio, Main Street in Mendocino, where she continues to exhibit her original, hand fabricated jewelry along with 12 other prominent local jewelers. Since her arrival to the coast in 1985 Nancy has taught many Jewelry/Metals workshops at the Mendocino Art Center as well as other community colleges and art centers. In 2011 she became coordinator/studio manager of the art center’s Jewelry/Metals department creating a nationally recognized program with renowned instructors from across the country and beyond.


About the Mendocino Art Center:
Nestled on the rugged Northern California coast, the Mendocino Art Center is a historic hub for artists and creatives of all disciplines. With professional studios and sweeping ocean views, it offers an unforgettable setting for focused creative work.