This workshop meets Saturday, August 28, 2027, 9:00 am - 5:00 pm with a lunch break
 
We’ll begin by creating a mold from a real twig, capturing its natural texture and form. While that sets up, We’ll head to the torch! You’ll get a fun, approachable introduction to lampworking while learning to create a small glass leaf directly on 22-gauge steel wire. You will have time to create several leaves!
 
Next, you’ll then use your mold with Project X torch-fireable silver clay to create an organic silver component for your finished jewelry piece.
 
Finally, we’ll bring the elements together, combining your handmade silver and glass components into a finished piece of wearable art. Depending on the size and complexity of your work—and how quickly you work—you can complete a necklace, a pair of earrings, or possibly both.
 
This workshop is suitable for beginners as well as experienced metal clay artists looking to add new techniques and materials to their work. No previous lampworking experience is required.
 
You’ll learn: mold making from natural objects, working with Project X torch-fireable silver clay, introductory lampworking and techniques for combining glass and metal clay into finished jewelry.
 
It’s metal, molds, glass and fire—all in one class!
 
A Kit fee: $56 will be collected by the instructor during the workshop and will include 5 grams of project X .999 silver clay, stainless steel components to finish your project and mold making putty. More clay and sterling silver components will be available for purchase if you want to create more pieces.
 
Students are Required to bring a standard metal clay tool kit, 2 chain nose pliers for opening jumps rings (or whatever you like to work with), round nose pliers and cutters you can use to cut 22 gauge steel wire (so regular wire cutters or old nice jewelry cutters you don’t mind using on steel wire). I will have pliers in the classroom to share if you need them. 
 
This workshop is part of the Metal Clay Artists Symposium and requires the purchase of the General Registration.
 
Nikki Thornburg-Lanigan is a professional artist and instructor with more than 25 years of experience creating handmade glass beads and jewelry. She holds a BFA in Sculpture and has taught jewelry-making classes throughout her years on the bead show circuit, as well as local Project X silver charm classes. Her experience also includes metal clay and exploring ways to combine it with glass. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and helping students build confidence as they try new techniques and creative possibilities