Jewellery: Wax Carving for Stone Setting with Russell Lownsbrough

Class format and activities

Wax-carving is like sculpture for jewellery. This is a practical class and you will learn to improve your wax carving skills to incorporate stone settings. We will learn how to transfer a design onto wax, which tools to use for wax-carving and how to make carving tools to suit your own individual needs. We will look at the different types of wax , how to carve a 3D design in wax, how to repair it if it breaks and how to make alterations to a carving. You will learn how to finish the carving to a smooth finish in preparation for casting, where to take your piece to be cast and how to clean up and finish the cast item. Each stage of the process will be demonstrated both to the group and to individuals as appropriate.

Learning Outcomes

• 01: cut and carve your wax to fit the dimensions of a specific stone
• 02: carve a ring or pendant with the stone setting
• 03: Understand the lost wax casting process and where to get this done
• 04: Finish your cast pieces.

Course entry requirements

The course is suitable for students with some experience of wax carving, who are keen to develop and extend their skills. Curiosity and readiness to experiment with tools and materials which may be unfamiliar and challenging to you are an advantage!

What you need to know before you enrol

Health & Safety information will be given at the start of the course and subsequent lessons where necessary. Please note, the casting of your wax will be done off site and there will be an additional cost for this process which the tutor will advise you on. This cost is dependent on the size of your wax carvings, whether you want to cast in silver or bronze and how many pieces you want to cast. An average cost is around £25.

What to bring to class

All tools and wax provided. You will need to cover the cost of your casting should you wish to proceed with your design. Bring pen, pencil, paper, and creativity.

What you can do next

Morley offers Jewellery classes day, evening and weekends for students at all levels of experience. Additionally, specialised short courses are provided which focus on specific skills and techniques. If you have enjoyed this course you may want to develop your jewellery stone setting and wax carving skills. Your tutor Russell Lownsbrough teaches courses in these areas on Monday and Friday evenings