Advanced sand casting with Kirra-lea Caynes

If you've attended one of Kirra-lea's UnEarthed workshops, then this is the class for you!!

This workshop is specifically designed for more advanced creators who are interested in growing and refining their knowledge and skill in sand casting. Kirra-lea will show you how to cast-in-place faceted stones within a grain setting and a tube setting, as well as how to add findings, cast multiple objects simultaneously, and cast large objects using multiple sprues.

There will be four demonstrations focusing on the different setting styles for cast-in-place stones and advanced techniques for mould making. Following the demonstrations, you will practice each technique using your own design concept, exploring and applying the setting styles and mould making techniques taught in the workshop.

There will be limited time to clean up and polish all of your pieces during the workshop. It is likely that you will need access to a studio to finish off your creations.

The materials supplied in the workshop include 30g of sterling silver and a variety of synthetic stones, with the option of buying faceted sapphires. Sand casting faceted stones can be difficult, so it is recommended to start with synthetic stones provided in the workshop, before using natural gemstones. 

You will be able to practice and make up to 4 projects with the materials provided. Depending on the size of your creations, some of the projects made in the workshop may have to be melted down to reuse the silver for the next project. However, if you would like to keep all of your creations, there will be an option to purchase extra silver on the day.

An extensive array of solid objects will be available to mould and cast, but you are welcome to bring your own objects to explore and use in the casting process. You can also bring your own metal and gemstones, should you wish to personalise a project with your own materials. Please note that gemstones used in the cast-in-place process should be 7.5 or higher on the Mohs hardness scale.

The classes are limited to 5 students to ensure a flexible and tailored experience.

What the day includes:

• A whole day workshop from 10am – 5pm
• Lunch, coffee, tea and snacks throughout the day
• All materials including 30g of silver and synthetic gemstones
• Option to purchase natural facted gemstones and additional silver
• A clean, contemporary studio to create your pieces

What you should wear and bring with you:

All you need to bring is yourself! Snacks, tea, coffee and lunch will be provided.

Please dress appropriately: closed in shoes, long pants and hair tied back. Also please be aware that we are working with clay, so it can get a little messy!

About your instructor, Kirra-lea Caynes

Kirra-Lea is a trade-qualified jeweller who has been manufacturing for over 10 years. Her passion lies in contemporary jewellery, particularly using and manipulating nature and raw materials to create bespoke jewellery. She has been using the sand casting technique for over 6 years, and for the past 4 years she been using the casting-in-place method. This process involves placing stones inside a mould, then pouring molten metal into the mould, allowing it to form around and securely encapsulate the stone, setting it in place.

About our studio

Our studio is nestled in the Kangaroo Valley of NSW within easy reach of the village centre and with views of the surrounding mountains and escarpment. You will have your own fully equipped workbench and access to a range of professional tools and equipment. Our emphasis is on having fun and learning in a small and collaborative group setting. The exact location of our studio will be sent to you in an email after booking.

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What next?

Just add this item to your cart and, once processed, you will receive an email confirming all the relevant contact details, times and studio location. Et voila, it's that easy! Hope to see you at the workshop!

What if I can't attend after booking?

If you need to reschedule, we can provide 100% credit towards another workshop if you contact us 7 or more days prior to the workshop date. Less than 3 days notice and we can provide 50% credit towards another workshop. And if (in the unlikely event) we need to reschedule the workshop, you will be offered either a full refund or 100% credit to use towards another workshop.