Beginners Silver Bangle Workshop (Private one-on-one lesson)

Workshop Overview: Duration 1.5 hours

This class is perfect for those who are new to jewellery making and want to learn traditional metalsmithing techniques. By the end of the session, students will understand the basic tools and techniques needed to create their own sterling silver bangle band.

Step-by-Step Learning Journey

1. Introduction & Safety

• Meet and greet, class outline, and expectations

• Studio safety and tool handling

• Understanding metal types and their properties (copper vs silver)

2. Tools & Materials

• Overview of essential tools: jeweller’s saw, files, pliers, ring mandrel, soldering torch, pickle, etc.

• Introduction to sterling silver sheet or wire

• Measuring tools: calipers, bangle mandrel, steel ruler

3. Measuring & Sizing 

• How to find your correct bangle size

• How to calculate ring blank length using ring size chart and thickness

• Marking the metal accurately

4. Sawing & Filing 

• How to safely use a jeweller’s saw

• Practice straight and curved cuts on copper

• Saw your sterling silver ring blank

• Filing the ends of your metal flush and smooth

5. Texturing & Design

• Introduce texture hammers, stamps, or roll printing

• Add surface texture to make your ring unique (optional step before forming)

6. Forming the Ring 

• Use bangle mandrel and rawhide mallet to curve the metal into a bangle shape

• Check alignment of the joint for soldering

7. Soldering 

• Introduction to solder types and flux

• Learn how to apply flux and position solder

• Torch safety and flame control

• Soldering the bangle closed

• Quenching and pickling to clean

8. Shaping & Refining 

• True up the bangle on the mandrel (rounding and reshaping)

• File and sand the solder joint

• Remove rough edges and tool marks

9. Polishing & Finishing 

• Sand with various grits for a smooth finish

• Introduction to polishing compounds or polishing wheels

• Option to create a matte or high-shine finish

10. Celebrate Your Ring! 

• Try on your handmade bangle

• Tips for continuing your jewellery journey at home