Copper Christmas Decorations

Design and make your own copper or aluminium christmas decorations.

No experience is required but fun with hammers and tools will definitely be had! There’s no need to be traditional and hang baubles, stars and bells from your tree this year, why not decorate with a heart or a profile of your beloved pet, or even your loved ones initials?

During this metalworking workshop you will create a set of 3-6 unique copper Christmas decorations. Thesefestive treats can then be hung from the Christmas tree or linked onto a ribbon to make a festive garland.

You will start by drawing your designs onto the copper sheet and then sawing the shapes out using ajeweller’s saw. The next step is to use the gas torch to anneal (soften) the metal and then texture will beadded by hammering, rolling, impressing and stamping.

The next step is to slightly dome the shapes, by hitting them with a mallet over a domed metal form, togive them more of a 3-dimensional form. After a final surface finish a hole will then be punched beforethreading onto a decorative cord or ribbon, ready to hang.

Tutor Emma-Jane Rule is an award winning Contemporary Metalsmith and Silversmith, with a workshop at StudionAme in Leicester. She is a member of Design-Nation and has exhibited nationally at contemporary art, craft and design events.

Her handcrafted contemporary metalwork is created using traditional silversmithing skills as well as ametalworking technique called fold forming. This involves folding sheets of metal and using hammer blows to stretch certain areas, when unfolded and manipulated by hand they are transformed into three dimensional forms. Taking inspiration from the rhythms and patterns found in nature, Emma-Jane’sportfolio includes decorative vessels and wall art in silver and base metals, lighting and jewellery.

This one-day workshop starts at 10.30am and ends at 4pm, with half an hour break for lunch. Our café will be open or you are welcome to bring your own refreshments.

All materials will be provided. Please wear shoes or boots that do not have open toes and old clothes, or bring an apron if you prefer.