It’s comforting to have a memento of our loved ones or even of scripture or affirmations. Things that we can keep close and irreplaceable bring us comfort.
Join me for six live online sessions, perfect for all schedules. Can’t make it? No problem. The sessions are demos and then you have 2-3 days to work between classes. Videos are available on a beautiful platform with high definition macro shots, speed control, transcripts, close caption and more. Have a question? You can ask it in the private FB group just for students and best of all you have my attention for 6 months after class ends. Videos are available til the end of March (a little over 60 days).
In over roughly 24 hours of instruction we will cover box forms (closed and partially open), complicated shapes, engineering considerations for raising stone settings in boxes, tube bearing hinges and why these are the best to use, easier set ups for hinges, how to make cabochons with human or animal hair laminates (could use fabric, butterfly wings, pictures, etc), how to make a threaded and friction fit closure (capturing ashes, hair, fabric, scripture, affirmations, and more), and prong settings will be demonstrated.
6 sessions starting with a pre-session Dec 28th to cover tools and supplies. Classes are Mon and Thursday evenings at 4pm Pacific Time Zone on Jan 8, 11, 15, 18, 22.
Memento Mori, a phrase with a seemingly solemn undertone, derives from Latin, meaning "remember you will die." This concept, deeply rooted in ancient philosophy, finds its origins in the teachings of Socrates, who asserted that the essence of philosophy revolves around contemplating the inevitability of death and the state of being deceased. (Daily Stoic)
However, Memento Mori is not solely a morbid reflection; it can also be approached as a celebration of life and a poignant acknowledgment that death marks the conclusion of the blessing bestowed upon us by having something special in our lives. This unique perspective encourages us to keep the memories of departed loved ones—whether human or animal—close to our hearts, cherishing their impact and celebrating the richness they brought to our existence.
In embracing Memento Mori, individuals find a profound connection between the fragility of life and the significance of the moments we share. It serves as a reminder to value and appreciate the present, fostering a deeper appreciation for the transient nature of existence. In essence, Memento Mori becomes a meaningful practice that transcends the initial perception of morbidity, transforming into a celebration of the interconnectedness of life and death.
In order to hold precious items we need a hollow form or box like shape. It needs to have a way to secure the items within and we need to consider the placement of the hole and how that hole will close.
Then what if we want to add a laminated stone with their hair or an image or perhaps their favorite fabric, we could add it to the box top, or maybe make a hinged drop down 2 part pendant or even bracelet. Maybe there are several components to the piece. Hinges are a great way to articulate movement and connect these elements.
This class is not project based. I will be demonstrating and inspiring you to create whatever design expresses your voice. The best part is that it’s not a one and done class. I’m here to mentor you through the journey of combining these new techniques in a way that represents your work, not mine. During the Tool and Supply class we will discuss possible designs and considerations you may want to make for your skill level. I will meet you where you are.
Of course, there will be so many techniques and tips that we cover from using rotary files, soldering tips for setting up difficult operations, soldering stainless steel, using threading taps, tapering wire, and more!
How to choose the right tool and tips that will make the way you work fun and easier
How to select the right torch tip and flame for the job.
How to take a seemingly hard set up job, fairly effortless so that soldering is a joy!
How to create box shapes that aren’t boring and it’s straightforward
How to create threaded tap connections for all sorts of closures and connecting materials that cannot be riveted or heat connected.
How to solder stainless steel (and steel)
How to make tube bearing hinges that wont wrack and don’t look sloppy. You might have been afraid to try this because it seems complicated. There is a learning curve, but I’m going to demystify hinges for you.
How to use wire to create prongs to set your laminated stone (if you make one). This is simple and easy!
How to make a laminated quartz stone.
AND sooo many tips and tricks! My students favorite part that they rave about!
We will cover:
-Tools
-Supplies
-Torches
-Flames
-Surfaces
-Handouts (will be posted the morning of the class)