Prerequisites: Wax Carving and Metalsmithing 1 or equivalent
 
Participants must come to this workshop with a completed wax model from their Wax Carving workshop. 
 
Day 1 (10am–2pm) will involve the instruction of proper spruing of your model to provide success in the casting process. You will learn how to invest the wax model using casting investment, a material similar to Plaster of Paris. Calculations to determine the amount of investment and metal needed to cast your piece will be covered this first day. Detailed instructions will be given on setting up and programing the burnout kiln as well as explanations of the process and the timing when using a manual kiln. 
 
Day 2 (2–5pm) will be the actual casting of your project.  We will discuss the difference between Centrifugal casting and Vacuum casting. Vacuum casting is a much safer process and will be utilized in this workshop. Your instructor will cover proper clean up procedures after casting is complete. 
 
The amount of silver you need to bring is determined by the size of your project.  We recommend making a ring or pendant for your first project. No large pieces such as bracelets for your first casting.
 
 
MATERIALS & TOOLS
Bring your Metalsmithing toolbox, including the following items: 
Eye protection (safety glasses)
Clean scrap sterling silver (cannot have solder on any of it) or casting grains (2-4ounces)
Completed wax model
 
8 contact hours  |  Studio fee is included in tuition (a $35 value)