Wax carving for sand casting with Diane Appleby

In this course, you will receive a thorough introduction to the techniques of wax carving and modeling for sand casting. You will also see at least one of your designs come to life in silver without having to send it to a commercial casting house.

DAY 1

Wax carving for sand casting

Demonstration: ring or pendant making in wax

• Measuring and marking
• Cutting the model with a saw
• Shaping with a saw, files and micromotor
• Finishing techniques

The aesthetic inspiration for your jewelry designs will be drawn from the ancient Japanese concept of Wabi Sabi, which values "things that resonate with the spirit of the makers' hands and heart." Wabi is simple and humble, while sabi is weathered and rusty. Together, these elements encourage a minimalism that celebrates the human touch rather than machine-made perfection. The underlying theme of wabi-sabi aesthetics is the idea of reducing ideas down to their essence, while still maintaining utility and beauty.

We will aim to complete at least one wax, ready for sand casting, by the end of the first day.

DAY 2

Sand casting completed waxes and cleaning up silver castings

• Sand casting of completed waxes from Day 1 (by Zvoni Hodak)
• Removal of sprue and casting clean up
• Finishing and polishing techniques

Demonstration: bezel set ring or pendant making in wax for lost wax casting by commercial caster

• Measuring and marking
• Cutting the model with a saw
• Shaping with a saw, files and micromotor
• Uses of soft wax sheet and wires
• Finishing techniques

You will have the opportunity to complete at least one more wax to take away and send to a commercial caster or, if you prefer, you can create another model for sand casting.

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What the weekend includes:

• Two full days of tutorials from 10am – 4pm
• Lunch, coffee, tea and snacks each day
• All tools and consumables, excluding sterling silver which you will purchase for your sand casting at the current market rate on the day (approximately $15-25 per casting)
• Personalised instruction from two experienced jewellers
• A clean, contemporary studio to create your pieces

What you should wear and bring with you:

• Please wear casual, comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes
• Your hands will get dirty, so please don't wear any precious jewellery
• If you have long hair, please wear it in a pony tail or a bun, and
• We’ll be doing detailed work, so don't forget to bring your reading glasses
• You are welcome to bring your own metal or old jewellery for the casting of your waxes

Where to stay:

Kangaroo Valley has accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you're looking for a luxurious hotel, a cozy bed and breakfast, a private vacation rental, or a budget-friendly tourist park, you'll find it all within reach. Here are a few links to get you started:

• Visit Kangaroo Valley - visitkangaroovalley.com.au/stay/
• Kangaroo Valley Getaways - www.kangaroovalleygetaways.com.au
• Kangaroo Valley Escapes - kangaroovalleyescapes.com

About your instructor, Diane Appleby

Jewellery designer and maker Diane Appleby has exhibited nationally and internationally. Her love of rich colours, generous forms and sensuous textures bring a precious presence to her jewellery, giving it a unique individuality. Diane’s catalogue of work encompasses special pieces for exhibitions, jewellery collections for retail stores, and collaborations with clients on bespoke pieces.

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.