Prerequisite: Lapidary 1 or equivalent
Intarsia is the art of creating stone to stone inlay; a technique in which the artist fits stones directly against each other, requiring great precision of cutting and design.
In this four-day class we will explore the ways to cut and reassemble stones in interesting patterns to create a cabochon that can be used in jewelry design. We will explore unusual approaches to curved and inlay techniques. Each student is required to have a basic Lapidary I understanding of how to cut and polish a stone to create a cabochon. Each student can expect to complete at least one cabochon.
What we will cover:
- Brief History of Intarsia
- Stone properties and how they respond to each other in the intarsia application
- Tools for making Intarsia and how to use the lapidary machines and trim saws
- Safety
- How to cut and assemble stones, then reshape and polish to create a cabochon
- Adhesives and methods of application
- Assembling materials and best choices for Intarsia
- Alternative materials
- How to back a stone
- Finishing and polishing
Tools we will be using: (provided by studio) Flat Lapidary Machine, Lapidary Machines, Diamond Trim saw and polishing machines.
Students must have Level Lapidary 1 skills, including knowledge of the use of lapidary equipment.
MATERIALS & TOOLS
Students are responsible for bringing the following:
- Rough Slabs and finished material. Please only bring slabs, we will not be cutting rough material. Bring finished cabochons you wish to cut and reassemble.
- Epoxy: Must be Devcon 5 Minute Epoxy
- Epoxy mixing sticks (wooden coffee stirrers)
- Super glue
- Scissors
- Exacto Knife
- Permanent Sharpie Marker
- Ruler
- Masking tape
- Notebook and pencil
- Nitrile gloves and face protection (N95 mask, and eye protection)
MASTER SERIES CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICIES
- Once you have enrolled and paid tuition, there are no refunds or credits for Master Series Workshops if you are unable to attend.
- By enrolling in a Master Series workshop, you affirm your acceptance of our no refunds policy and represent to us that you possess the appropriate skills to comply with the prerequisites.
- Check your calendar carefully and choose wisely before enrolling.
- In the event that DJS must cancel the workshop, a refund or credit will be issued.
Lesley Aine McKeown: Intarsia, a New Approach • Thu–Sun, Oct 2–5, 2025
Metalsmithing 1