Electrochemical Etching for Jewelry

Dive into the world of metal etching for jewelry and sculpture in this hands-on workshop, where you’ll learn to create stunning designs on copper and brass! You’ll explore a variety of methods to create your resist for electrochemical etching, examining the pros and cons of each technique based on your desired results. Participants will have the option to make either a medallion or a bracelet while gaining essential skills in shaping metal with a bracelet mandrel. No prior experience is needed, and you’ll leave with a unique piece of jewelry that showcases your creativity!

What You Will Learn:

• The basics of nonferrous electrochemical metal etching on non-ferrous metals
• Methods for etch resist: paint, marker, handcut, store-bought, or stickers made using a vinyl cutter 
• Techniques for achieving varied depths in your designs
• Shaping metal using a bracelet mandrel
• Dark patination techniques to enhance the contrast in your etchings
• Tips for finishing your piece to achieve a patinated or polished look
• Suggestions for further learning and techniques in jewelry making and metalsmithing, including soldering, stone setting, and additional surface treatments to expand your skills and creativity

Please Note:

• Students aged 16 years and up can attend unaccompanied; ages 12-15 must have a guardian also enrolled in the class.
• Minors must have parental permission and a signed waiver (please ask us for details).
• Closed-toe shoes are required at MAKE.
• No experience is needed!
• This class pairs well with our Vinyl Cutter, Heat Press, Plotter workshop for those interested in expanding their creative possibilities!