Upcoming Classes
The Art of Mokume Gane
Diane Weimer's Studio in Long Beach, CA
LIVE! In Person! All in the same studio, wow.
October 22, 23, 24, 2021. 9am-4pm
My first in person mokume gane workshop in 1.5 years - you bet I'm excited! This class will be a smorgasbord of patterning techniques - stamp, twist and some metamorphic. Exact content will be determined by the level of those that sign up. If you have taken online classes with me, I'd love to meet you here in person and help dial in your mokume skills. Or if you are brand new to mokume that is great too. One Covid note - we want everyone to be safe and feel comfortable. The host and I are vaccinated, and we want you to be too. Although hard to say at this time, it is very likely masks will still be required during class, covering mouth and nose at all times while indoors. If these safety considerations aren't okay with you, please have a look at my online classes instead. :-)
Mokume Gane is an ancient Japanese technique involving fused layers of differently colored metals that form unique organic patterns. This class begins at the patterning stage - we will be using fused mokume gane blanks (copper/brass included in kit fee, other more exotic silver-containing combinations will be available for purchase in class). This allows us to focus on the most artistic part of mokume gane - unique and expressive pattern development. We will be trying a variety of techniques, from stamping to direct hammering among others. The special considerations for fabricating and finishing mokume gane work will be covered, including soldering and patination. Students can choose to focus on creating multiple patterned samples for inclusion in later work, or create one or more simple finished jewelry pieces. This class is available to all levels, however some experience soldering and working with silver will be helpful. Even advanced jewelers/metalsmiths will benefit from learning these secrets of mokume gane patterning. Learn more on Diane Weimer's site.
Diane Weimer's Studio in Long Beach, CA
LIVE! In Person! All in the same studio, wow.
October 22, 23, 24, 2021. 9am-4pm
My first in person mokume gane workshop in 1.5 years - you bet I'm excited! This class will be a smorgasbord of patterning techniques - stamp, twist and some metamorphic. Exact content will be determined by the level of those that sign up. If you have taken online classes with me, I'd love to meet you here in person and help dial in your mokume skills. Or if you are brand new to mokume that is great too. One Covid note - we want everyone to be safe and feel comfortable. The host and I are vaccinated, and we want you to be too. Although hard to say at this time, it is very likely masks will still be required during class, covering mouth and nose at all times while indoors. If these safety considerations aren't okay with you, please have a look at my online classes instead. :-)
Mokume Gane is an ancient Japanese technique involving fused layers of differently colored metals that form unique organic patterns. This class begins at the patterning stage - we will be using fused mokume gane blanks (copper/brass included in kit fee, other more exotic silver-containing combinations will be available for purchase in class). This allows us to focus on the most artistic part of mokume gane - unique and expressive pattern development. We will be trying a variety of techniques, from stamping to direct hammering among others. The special considerations for fabricating and finishing mokume gane work will be covered, including soldering and patination. Students can choose to focus on creating multiple patterned samples for inclusion in later work, or create one or more simple finished jewelry pieces. This class is available to all levels, however some experience soldering and working with silver will be helpful. Even advanced jewelers/metalsmiths will benefit from learning these secrets of mokume gane patterning. Learn more on Diane Weimer's site.
"Anne's Metamorphic Mokume Gane class was great! So surprised it worked out so well being online." ~ Joe Bacik
Past Classes
Twisting Mokume
Live Online Workshop with Anne Wolf
June 26-27, 2021 - Saturday - Sunday 10:00am - 4:00 pm PDT - Sold Out
August 14-15, 2021 - Saturday - Sunday 10:00am - 4:00 pm PDT - 1 spot left!
Tuition $295 + $75-$195 kit fee (+tax & shipping)
Learn to do the twist! Twist patterning is the basis for most of the precious-metal mokume rings made in the US – mine included. In this class you’ll learn exactly how I create such detailed organic patterns in my rings, all while you create an intricately patterned copper/brass cuff bracelet. (You’ll also learn why we are making bracelets rather than rings.) On the second day I’ll show two more variations on the twist – the star pattern and a more advanced pattern I call ‘mizu’ or the water pattern. According to your interest and experience level you can focus on finishing the bracelet or try one or both of these other techniques. The basic kit comes with enough copper/brass mokume rod for two or possibly all three of the techniques. For the more advanced or ambitious students you can purchase the deluxe kit, with enough additional mokume to make a silver/copper/brass bracelet. For the best experience, this class is limited to 15 students. Prior experience with annealing and forging is recommended. Register at AnnevilleStudio.com.
Live Online Workshop with Anne Wolf
June 26-27, 2021 - Saturday - Sunday 10:00am - 4:00 pm PDT - Sold Out
August 14-15, 2021 - Saturday - Sunday 10:00am - 4:00 pm PDT - 1 spot left!
Tuition $295 + $75-$195 kit fee (+tax & shipping)
Learn to do the twist! Twist patterning is the basis for most of the precious-metal mokume rings made in the US – mine included. In this class you’ll learn exactly how I create such detailed organic patterns in my rings, all while you create an intricately patterned copper/brass cuff bracelet. (You’ll also learn why we are making bracelets rather than rings.) On the second day I’ll show two more variations on the twist – the star pattern and a more advanced pattern I call ‘mizu’ or the water pattern. According to your interest and experience level you can focus on finishing the bracelet or try one or both of these other techniques. The basic kit comes with enough copper/brass mokume rod for two or possibly all three of the techniques. For the more advanced or ambitious students you can purchase the deluxe kit, with enough additional mokume to make a silver/copper/brass bracelet. For the best experience, this class is limited to 15 students. Prior experience with annealing and forging is recommended. Register at AnnevilleStudio.com.
Metamorphic Mokume hosted by the Metal Arts Guild of Georgia - Sold Out!
Live Online Workshop with Anne Wolf
April 10-11, 2021 - Saturday - Sunday noon - 6pm EST
Tuition $250-$275 + $60-$120 kit fee (+tax & shipping)
Take your mokume gane patterning to a whole new level - beyond stamping, twisting and chiseling. At a fundamental level, mokume gane patterning is analogous to the geologic processes of uplift, metamorphosis, and erosion. In this newly expanded class, Anne reveals unexpected ways to pattern which she has discovered over the years. With hammers, stamps and other tools we will metamorphosize the blank mokume gane sheet; the patterns will begin to appear as our files erode away the disturbed layers. The focus will be on creating uniquely patterned mokume sheet that can be used later to make jewelry, box lids, and more. Best for students who have taken at least one mokume gane class, or well-equipped and motivated beginners. Get details at MetalArtsGuildGA.org.
Live Online Workshop with Anne Wolf
April 10-11, 2021 - Saturday - Sunday noon - 6pm EST
Tuition $250-$275 + $60-$120 kit fee (+tax & shipping)
Take your mokume gane patterning to a whole new level - beyond stamping, twisting and chiseling. At a fundamental level, mokume gane patterning is analogous to the geologic processes of uplift, metamorphosis, and erosion. In this newly expanded class, Anne reveals unexpected ways to pattern which she has discovered over the years. With hammers, stamps and other tools we will metamorphosize the blank mokume gane sheet; the patterns will begin to appear as our files erode away the disturbed layers. The focus will be on creating uniquely patterned mokume sheet that can be used later to make jewelry, box lids, and more. Best for students who have taken at least one mokume gane class, or well-equipped and motivated beginners. Get details at MetalArtsGuildGA.org.
Stamped Mokume Gane Pendant
Live Online Workshop with Anne Wolf
March 20 & 21 - Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm PDT
Tuition $295 + $55-$105 kit fee (+tax & shipping or local pick up) - New color combo!
Learn to stamp-pattern mokume gane, then create a stunning mokume gane pendant in your home studio. This online, interactive class is designed for beginning-intermediate jewelry/metals artists with some experience soldering and sawing. Stamping is the easiest patterning method; the kit includes mokume gane blanks so you can focus on the patterning. The first day you’ll create your own uniquely patterned mokume sheet, and the second day you’ll fabricate it into a domed pendant with silver edge and bail. Soldering and finishing a mokume gane piece can be tricky. This class will provide essential tips and tricks for clear, clean patterned pieces with good contrast and no pits, fuzziness or delaminations. You may even learn a few soldering tips applicable to your non-mokume work! Lastly we’ll patinate and protect the finished piece. Get details at Anne's site - AnnevilleStudio.com.
Live Online Workshop with Anne Wolf
March 20 & 21 - Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm PDT
Tuition $295 + $55-$105 kit fee (+tax & shipping or local pick up) - New color combo!
Learn to stamp-pattern mokume gane, then create a stunning mokume gane pendant in your home studio. This online, interactive class is designed for beginning-intermediate jewelry/metals artists with some experience soldering and sawing. Stamping is the easiest patterning method; the kit includes mokume gane blanks so you can focus on the patterning. The first day you’ll create your own uniquely patterned mokume sheet, and the second day you’ll fabricate it into a domed pendant with silver edge and bail. Soldering and finishing a mokume gane piece can be tricky. This class will provide essential tips and tricks for clear, clean patterned pieces with good contrast and no pits, fuzziness or delaminations. You may even learn a few soldering tips applicable to your non-mokume work! Lastly we’ll patinate and protect the finished piece. Get details at Anne's site - AnnevilleStudio.com.
Mokume Gane Chisel Patterning - Sold Out!
Live Online Workshop with Anne Wolf
February 20 & 21 - Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm PDT
Tuition $295 + $95 -$155 kit fee (+tax & shipping)
Learn the most traditional Japanese method of patterning mokume-gane. Chisel into the surface of blank mokume-gane to create rivers of pattern that follow your chisel marks. After hammering the sheet back to flat, your unique chisel patterns are locked into the metal forever. Traditionally pitch is used to secure the metal while chiseling, but in this class Anne will also show a lower-cost easy alternative. On the first day you’ll pattern copper/brass mokume sheet, then the second day you’ll refine your skills and learn to chisel-pattern silver/copper mokume. Your patterned sheet can be used later to create pendants, earrings, box lids, etc. Handmade chisels especially designed for mokume gane are included in all kits. Get details and join the waiting list at Anne's site - AnnevilleStudio.com.
Live Online Workshop with Anne Wolf
February 20 & 21 - Saturday & Sunday 10am-4pm PDT
Tuition $295 + $95 -$155 kit fee (+tax & shipping)
Learn the most traditional Japanese method of patterning mokume-gane. Chisel into the surface of blank mokume-gane to create rivers of pattern that follow your chisel marks. After hammering the sheet back to flat, your unique chisel patterns are locked into the metal forever. Traditionally pitch is used to secure the metal while chiseling, but in this class Anne will also show a lower-cost easy alternative. On the first day you’ll pattern copper/brass mokume sheet, then the second day you’ll refine your skills and learn to chisel-pattern silver/copper mokume. Your patterned sheet can be used later to create pendants, earrings, box lids, etc. Handmade chisels especially designed for mokume gane are included in all kits. Get details and join the waiting list at Anne's site - AnnevilleStudio.com.
"I was surprised how well the Zoom format worked - I particularly liked how Anne had pre-recorded some videos but then narrated them live, which was a great way to get good close ups of the work but also to sound natural while talking. The timing format worked well - two hours seems to be about the maximum time I can focus on making notes from a presentation! All the technology worked very well, including online sign up, raffle, class resources as well as the class itself. I would have been happy to pay a bit more for the kit for a few more pieces of the copper/brass mokume to experiment more - I will be ordering some from Reactive Metals today! And I was very excited to win the raffle!! Thanks." ~ Julia MacLachlan Calicometals Jewelry
Live, online classes - work in real time with your fellow students
San Diego Jewelry Lab offers live, instructor-led interactive online classes covering a wide range of the jewelry/metals field, from beginner topics to advanced specialty techniques such as mokume gane chisel-patterning and keum boo.
About our classes:
For questions about cancellations and other details, see our Policies page.
To get advance notice for any of our new classes, please join our Mailing List.
About our classes:
- All sessions are live, led by the instructor and hosted by us at Anneville with high-quality audio and video. Sessions are typically lively and interactive. We even offer tech support!
- Most of our classes include a valuable (and fun) Materials Kit mailed to you in advance.
- We offer a hosted Meet & Greet with every class so you can visit with your fellow students and compare notes along the way.
- Class size is 6-15 students, with plenty of time for hands-on learning and practice.
- Each class includes a login to a private Class Resources page where you can re-watch the demo videos at your own pace (or catch any you missed), quickly send questions and photos of your works-in-progress to the instructor, access resource and recommendation links and even write a class evaluation afterwards.
- At the end of multi-day classes we hold a live interactive raffle, giving away fun prizes to three lucky students.
- It can be hard to carve out the time to take a class and make your own work so we like to acknowledge the effort you put in. If you finish your class with us you'll receive a Certificate of Completion. Finish a piece by the last check-in meeting, and you'll get a gold seal too!
- Your safety is of utmost importance to us: we urge you to observe safety protocols when taking our classes. Always wear closed toed shoes while working, pull back loose hair and always wear safety glasses and ear protection.
For questions about cancellations and other details, see our Policies page.
To get advance notice for any of our new classes, please join our Mailing List.
"I am so excited about this class. In my first day I learned and expanded my knowledge even more than my expectations. I would like to continue taking classes with you guys. I will recommend your classes to anyone who wants to learn not only about Mokume but about metals and patinas in general. Great job." ~ Ileana Rojas-Bennett, Maleku Jewelry