We hold classes for training in lapidary skills and to teach techniques for beading and metalsmithing. All classes are held at the Club’s workshop, the Quarry. The Quarry is located in the basement of Mariposa Inn Hotel and is accessed from the parking lot behind the Inn off 5th Street.
The Quarry is open for classes and individual work most Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11 am to 3 pm. Holidays and special events may require scheduling changes.
In general, use of the Quarry is subject to a $5 per month fee. It’s the best deal in town! Come play with metal and beads with talented people who are always willing to share ideas for up to 8 times per month for only $5!!!! Some classes have additional costs based on equipment and materials used.
The Class Schedule is sent to all Club members normally monthly, and all members are encouraged to participate.
FACETING WITH GARY GOOCH
Gary provides individual instruction on faceting. This is a multiple-day class. The cost is $5 per day.
LAPIDARY WITH GARY GOOCH
Gary provides individual instruction on the art of cutting and polishing rock slabs. Completing Gary’s training, you will be qualified to use the Club’s equipment without oversight. The cost to use the Club’s lapidary equipment is $5 per day.
SILVER OR BRONZE CLAY
Silver and bronze clay are clay impregnated with silver or bronze. They are worked similar to clay and, once fired, the clay is gone, leaving the metal. The instructor may have the clay available for sale, as well as all tools you will need. You can also purchase clay on your own. You will want to confirm with the class instructor that you are purchasing the correct clay as there are variations in firing times. The instructor may assess a small additional cost for firing.
METALSMITHING
Using gold, silver, or copper, you will learn how to fabricate and finish a piece of jewelry, including sawing, shaping, soldering, and finishing. The cost is dependent on the metal you use.
VIKING KNIT
Viking Knit is a weaving technique done around a wooden dowel to create flexible and very strong necklaces. The kit is $10 and includes everything you need to complete your first project.
LOST WAX CASTING
Your desired form is created from wax (either free-hand or using molds) which is then kiln-fired to remove the wax, leaving your empty form behind. The empty space is then filled with molten metal (brass, copper, silver, or copper). The entire casting process is usually over at least 4 sessions: 2 for wax work, 1 for investing, and 1 for firing and casting. The cost depends on the metal you are using plus a charge for investing, firing, and casting.