Adding Enamel to copper is an ancient and exciting process.
I hand cut a shape and then add texture - either with a rolling mill or hand stamping a design. The enamel powder is then sprinkled onto the metal and fired in my kiln to around 800* Centigrade. Several layers of colour are added to build up the design, each coloured layer is fired separately with some pieces going into the kiln 8 times or more.
I use several different techniques, and sometimes my experiments create an unexpected result. One of the joys of enamelling is that you can never quite predict how the colours will react with each other in the kiln.
All of the jewellery on this page is a one of a kind piece. Have a look at my Etsy shop for similar items or contact me if you have your own idea.
Fine Silver is the purist form of Silver, it is used to make Silver Bullion ingots. Its purity makes it perfect for enamelling.
To make my Enamelled Silver range of Jewellery I place vintage lace on top of the silver sheet then roll it through my rolling mill. This simple technique creates a beautiful effect.
Shapes are cut and filed by hand. I then fire two layers of coloured Translucent Vitreous Enamel on top of the texture, to let the textured silver shine through.
There are several pieces of enamelled silver jewellery available in my Etsy shop.
Ideas for my silver jewellery are taken from nature , often seed pods or parts of plants are the starting point for a new design.
Bold shapes and simple forms make a statement.
If you’re interested in these pieces, they are available in my Etsy shop, or email me for more details.
Many couples want wedding rings which are unique, designed and handmade, especially for them.
Over the years I have made wedding rings in a variety of styles and designs, using 9ct or 18ct Rose, White or Yellow Gold, or Silver. All of the rings are individual and made to match the couples ideas and price range.
Would you like to make your own wedding rings? A wedding ring day workshop would guide you through the process of making your rings. A unique experience for truly personal rings. Prices start at £140 for a day for two people making silver rings.
If you are thinking of creating something special, get in touch.
Christine is currently planning more workshops for 2023.
Enamelled Copper Jewellery - Wet Packing
11 May, 10:00 – 16:00
Yew Tree Farm Shopping Village, Wootton Wawen, Henley-in-Arden B95 6BY, UK
For more details -
https://www.warwickshireartisans.co.uk/workshops
Christine is also arranging some half day workshops at The lovely Squirrel Gallery in Wellsbourgh, Near Market Bosworth in Leicestershire
Please see their website for dates and to book
Would you like to arrange a private workshop?
Christine runs day and half day workshops in Enamelling. Groups of up to four people can take part in a workshop in her Leicester studio. It is also possible to use your own venue, and Christine can provide all of the materials and equipment needed. Please get in touch for more details.
Examples of past workshops -
Beginners Enamelled Copper Jewellery Half Day Workshop
Spend a morning learning a range of enamelling techniques in this three hour workshop.
With guidance you will learn how to apply lead-free enamel to copper. You will make several test pieces initially, that explore how to work with colour and how to use the kiln. Firing enamel takes moments, unlike firing ceramics, giving quick results. You will then make a piece of jewellery using pre-cut copper shapes, choosing to make either earrings or a pendant, You will make at least one piece of jewellery to take home.
Class level : Beginner
Time : 10am-1pm £40.00 per person
Beginners Silver Jewellery Half Day Workshop
Spend a morning learning a range of traditional jewellery making techniques in this silver jewellery workshop. This is a great way to see if you enjoy making jewellery .
With guidance you will learn how to pierce, heat, form, texture, solder, file, polish and finish metal – you will make several test pieces in copper or aluminium initially that explore how to work with metal before making a piece of jewellery in silver choosing to make either earrings or a pendant, You will make at least one piece of jewellery to take home.
Class level : Beginner
Time : 10am-1pm £40.00 per person
All materials and jewellery findings are included in the cost of the workshops. Tea, coffee and biscuits are also included. The workshops are informal and informative and no previous experience is needed. All equipment is provided, just bring your imagination!
Small class sizes ensure individual tuition from your qualified experienced tutor.
Please contact Christine for dates and any questions you may have.
Christine also teaches silver jewellery techniques, check out the video she made with Cookson Gold,
https://www.cooksongold.com/blog/jewellery-making-projects/a-beginners-guide-on-how-to-pierce-metal-by-christine-pearson
Thoroughly enjoyed our enamelling workshop the other day It was great to learn a new skill in such a relaxed and friendly environment from a lovely lady with a great sense of humour .
I have enjoyed all aspects of needle-crafts since childhood but never done anything like this before; Chris really made me feel I could have a go and i was very pleased with the things i made ,
Linda
On arrival all the equipment we would need was arranged like a banquet of craft and sure enough it was. As I had never done it before I did think of looking at a YouTube video, but I am glad I went in fresh as it were.
Chris explained all the equipment and techniques we could use and the different ways we could use them. Demonstrated and guided us through the process, it was tremendous, we were experimenting without fear of failure and made a few happy mistakes.
As I familiarised myself with the different ways of doing things and being surprised by how things turned out on each layer I applied. It made me feel so creative.
I was exceptionally pleased with what I had made. It was a fabulous and enjoyable day with a first rate tutor. Looking forward to my next session.
Margaret
