Merry Metal Gifts

Date: Saturday 13th December  |  9:30am - 4:00pm

With Tutor: Nikkie Gibson

Wishing you and your loved ones a very Metal Christmas!

Get into the festive spirit with a hands-on jewellery workshop where you’ll create your own copper earrings and/or pendant —perfect as heartfelt handmade gifts (or to keep for yourself!).

In this playful, beginner-friendly session, you’ll learn simple metal-working techniques, experiment with texture and shape, and leave with a beautifully finished pair of earrings or pendant ready for the Christmas season.

Join tutor and jewellery artist Nikkie for a meaningful day of cutting, hammering and texturing metal. Either polish your copper to a high shine or enjoy the rustic matte patina. By the end of the workshop, you'll not only have new skills—but beautiful pieces to take home, gift, or treasure forever.

What You'll Learn:

You'll learn all of the foundational metal-working skills including cutting, forming, texturing, drilling and polishing.

What You'll Create:

By the end of the workshop, you’ll take home at least one pair of earrings and/or one pendant!

Why Join This Workshop?

• Make a personalised handmade gift
• Learn foundational jewellery and metal-working techniques
• Boost creative confidence
• Try out tools and equipment without having to buy them
• Relax and unwind with a creative Saturday activity
• Develop design-based attention to detail
• Get personalised guidance and tips from an experienced tutor
  
  

Meet your Tutor:

Nikkie is an award-winning contemporary jeweller with over 20 years of experience.

Her work is inspired by the organic forms of Art Nouveau and the rigid, structured aesthetics of industrial and mechanical objects. Passionate about craftsmanship and creativity, Nikkie is dedicated to helping students discover the art of jewellery making, no matter their skill level.

How Will the Day Look?

1. Welcome & Inspiration

• Meet the tutor and other makers
• Look at sample earrings and design ideas
• Quick overview of copper as a jewellery material

2. Design & Sketch

• Choose shapes, size, and style
• Plan textures, patterns, and finishes
• Create a simple working sketch

3. Cutting & Forming Copper

• Learn safe use of saws, shears, and files
• Cut copper into your chosen shapes
• Refine edges and form the pieces

4. Texturing & Decorating

• Experiment with hammers, stamps, or embossing tools
• Add surface pattern and personality
• Optional: introduce patina for colour variation

5. Drilling & Assembly

• Drill holes for findings
• Attach ear wires and jump rings
• Ensure pieces hang correctly and securely

6. Finishing Touches

• Final sanding/polishing for shine

7. Showcase & Wrap-Up

• Share creations with the group
• Quick Q&A and tips for making more at home

FAQs

What should I bring?
All materials / tools will be provided by the tutor! However, we ask that you wear closed shoes & tie back long hair. Optionally, you can bring your own metals (i.e Silver).

Can anyone do this workshop?
Yes! This workshop is suitable for all levels, and is absolutely beginner-friendly. If you love being creative, you’ll fit right in.

Please also remember:

For health & safety in the Jewellery Studio: wearing closed shoes & having your hair tied back if it's long is essential. We will send you a reminder email closer to the time.