Cloisonné Enamel

This class focuses on the technique of cloisonné – a fabulous process which combines thin ribbons of silver with colourful enamels. This class focuses on the beautiful technique of cloisonné – a fabulous process which combines thin ribbons of silver with colourful enamel to create striking designs. The term cloisonné comes from the French ‘cloison’ which translates to ‘partition’. In this process, different colours of enamel are, as the name suggests, separated by partitions made of thin metal ribbons. These ribbons are usually silver or gold and are fused onto a base layer of enamel to create a series of small ‘cells’ which create the overall design. Once the partitions are all in place, each cell is then filled with layers of enamel, until level with the top of the ribbons. The metal remains visible, allowing the beautiful patterns of the cloisonné wire to shine through. Over the weekend, you’ll be shown how to create a cloisonné design from start to finish – including preparing the enamel base, shaping and inlaying the wires, wet packing the cells, and how to finish your cloisonné design through grinding and kiln polishing. We’ll also explore more decorative interpretations to the technique that can elevate your designs. This course is best suited to those with some previous enamelling experience, but if you're new to enamel please send an email to discuss. The course fee covers all materials and enamels, as well as use of the equipment needed. Tutoring and demonstrations will be provided at each stage. If you have any ideas/inspiration, it’s always helpful to bring these. It's important to come wearing appropriate clothing and closed-toe footwear, and a work apron is recommended but not essential. Long hair should be tied back and please bring any glasses needed for close work. Tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided, and the class will pause for a 45-minute lunch break on Saturday. Lunch is not provided, but you are welcome to bring a packed lunch to eat in the studio, or you can visit one of the nearby cafés. This is a 1.5 day class, and will run across the weekend: Saturday - 10:00am to 4:00pm (including a 45min break) Sunday - 10:00am to 1:00pm (no break) Participants must be 16 or over.