Finishing School

10-5pm

Tell me about it

I bet if you went to college or uni, you didn’t learn much about finishing, did you? Just a hunch. But even when you begin to learn jewellery, the reliance is usually on the tumble polisher when it comes to all things finishing. But fear not! We can show you to finish like a pro! Let us unlock the power of a full high polish and unleash your shiny new skills!

But let’s get one thing out of the way immediately… finishing is NOT the same as polishing. The art of finishing a piece begins way before any mop or polishing compound gets near it. This class explains the theories and processes that will lead to perfectly finished jewellery!

Can I do this class?

This class spans both amateur and professional jewellers. You’ll need to have a good understanding of jewellery making. Obviously, you have to be able to create jewellery, then think about polishing it. Erm, obviously.

What happens?

Learn to file up pieces properly
Use emery, sandpaper & silicones correctly
Finishing using both pendant drill and polisher
Learn to high polish, satin, matte and oxidise
Create emery sticks
Learn to burn in mops
Pick up hints & tips to enhance your skills

Do I need to bring anything?

Bring a sketchbook or something for taking notes etc. Everyone will have their own bench with access to all the tools and materials required to finish jewellery. You won’t need anything else as we provide the equipment needed for this session.

If you need glasses to see things close up, please bring them with you. Finishing jewellery is fiddly!

The details

Full-day course

10am - 5pm

Who is teaching me?

Scott McIntyre is a Master Goldsmith and Setter as well as being a Founding Director of Vanilla Ink CIC. With nearly 30 years of experience in the industry, there isn’t much Scott doesn’t know! After years of working in high-end workshops across Scotland’s Central Belt, he found his calling as a naturally gifted tutor.

Scott has a wonderful ability to connect with his students, making sure everyone feels at ease to learn in the perfect environment. His abilities, patience and top-class patter are famous, as is his love of a fine playlist [prepare for a musical journey]. He is thorough, deliberate and professional. Nobody ever leaves one of Scott’s classes disappointed.

Refreshments

Tea and coffee are provided and there are always cakes close to hand!

Lunch is 1pm-2pm

For lunch please bring your own packed lunch or there are a variety of shops nearby.

Terms and Conditions

All bookings are inclusive of VAT

Your booking fee secures your place – we cannot reserve places without payment.

If we have to cancel for any reason you will be offered the option to switch to another class or receive a full refund. A minimum of 6 people is needed for the workshop to run.

If you are unable to attend a course for any reason we are unable to offer a refund. However, if you give more than seven days notice to cancel and we can fill your space on the course we may be able to offer you an alternative date.

The minimum age to attend is sixteen. All 16/17 year olds must be accompanied by a paying adult.