Circle Study: Earrings, Part 2 (with torch-work). May 10, 2:00-5:00

Explore the timeless beauty of circle earrings in this hands-on workshop, where you’ll master the art of shaping perfect circles with wire while learning a variety of creative earring designs. You will aso be working with a butane torch for some soldering. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced crafter, this class will guide you through the steps of creating 3-4 pairs of wire earrings that showcase the elegance of circles.

You will learn:

• Torch safety
• Soldering techniques with wire
• Circle-forming skills
• Various ear-wire designs
• How to estimate wire lengths for different designs
• Elements of design
• The difference in wire hardness
• Versatile techniques to use with your own unique designs

Details:

• Saturday, May 10 from 2:00-5:00
• 3 contact hours, ages 14+ at the Silver Peak Gallery Classroom located at 100 E. Cleveland St. Lafayette 80026
  
• # students: 3 minimum, 6 maximum
  
• Materials kit fee is $30 and includes 18 ga and 20 ga copper wire and sterling silver earwire to make 3-4 pairs of earrings. If you wish to make your earrings in all silver, you may order iit through Riogrande.com or another jewelry supplier. 
• Prerequisite: none

The last day to cancel your class registration for a refund or transfer ($25 transfer fee applies) is April 26, 2025.

By registering for this workshop, you agree to our cancellation policy, dress code, and studio rules.

About the Instructor: Adriane Laws

"I started out as a science educator, but I’ve always been an artist at heart. I have been running my own jewelry business for over 12 years, and during that time, I’ve come to appreciate the blend of curiosity, artistry and craftsmanship that jewelry design requires. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to teach both children and adults across a range of settings, guiding them through the exciting worlds of science and jewelry-making.

Gemstones are a fascinating intersection of science and art. So it’s no surprise that my journey into jewelry design started with wire wrapping beautiful gemstones. It didn’t take long for me to discover a love for metalsmithing. 

Some of my favorite moments are when science and art intersect. My 'science mind' and natural curiosity have driven my enthusiasm for experimenting with various materials and techniques. Whether it's through etching with acid or saltwater, fold-forming, stamping, texturing, riveting, or fusing, I love transforming raw metal into something beautiful and unique. I also enjoy experimenting with other materials like polymer clay, epoxy, and paper. Each material and method offers its own unique challenge and satisfaction, providing endless opportunities to push my boundaries and learn something new. 

I believe there is magic in the creative process! Some of my most innovative designs have come after an unexpected 'error' prompted me to revise my original idea. As Bob Ross says, 'There are no mistakes, only happy accidents.'

Whether I’m experimenting with materials or guiding someone through a new technique, I’m always excited by the endless possibilities for creation and exploration. For me, teaching is about more than just imparting knowledge and skills— it’s about fostering that spark of excitement that happens when someone learns a new skill and creates something of their own."