Online Distance Learning Course
Swing Locket
£75

All of our online distance learning courses run as private Facebook groups. This is the only way you will be able to access the course content. After completing your registration you will be directed to the private Facebook group where you can request to join. We will accept your request as soon as possible.

This is an intermediate level course and is suitable for people who already have some experience with metal clay and are ready for the next challenge. The course also requires some basic metal smithing skills to solder. An instructional video on basic soldering techniques is included in the course.

This amazing project has been split into four pre-recorded videos lasting more than two and a quarter hours.

For a fraction of the cost of joining Tracey at her studio you get full detailed instructional videos & support documents as well as live interaction with Tracey for full support & to ask her any questions you might have. We also encourage you to post pictures of your achievements & chat with other group members. This course offers amazing value for money. You can join this course at any time.

Please note that you will be added to the group manually. You cannot download this course yourself

The Project

Tracey has a fascination for making lockets and boxes. While this is probably the simplest of all the locket pieces she's designed, it was not the first, but it's certainly been one of the most popular. Lockets are a piece of jewellery that hold or hide a treasure, picture or message. The theme of this piece is to make a sweet little birdhouse-style locket that has a swing front riveted panel. The front panel will slide to reveal your own picture, message, or feature inside. The choice is yours as you personalise your own lockets.

While the theme of this tutorial locket is a birdhouse, Tracey has also seen this piece adapted into a doghouse, rabbit hutch, horse stable, garden shed or even a beach hut. Complete the inside with moulded elements or a photograph or picture. The whole theme can be changed by simply using a different shaped profile to the piece then theme or style the piece to your own design.

For this birdhouse the main body of the piece is based on the construction of a pentagon shape. The front panel has the option to have a pierced negative space image, or you can add embellishments with a variety of ornamentations made from freeform sculpture or mouldings to stylise your own piece.

Further component parts are constructed then assembled. Recreate twigs and replica leaves to dangle from the locket to complete the project.

What We Will Cover

The course will begin by showing you the full list of tools & materials that you will need to participate in the course.

There will be full hands-on demonstrations with detailed descriptions every step of the way.

  • Introduction to the tools materials and equipment
  • Health and safety
  • Designing the locket
  • Construction of the pentagon frame
  • Perfect piercing the front panel with a negative design
  • Creating trim and other embellishments with themed elements
  • Make and fit a functional swing bail
  • Firing - times and temperatures
  • Soldering the rivet and pin
  • Riveting
  • Polishing
  • Patina
  • Tips on adding photographs in resin
  • Troubleshooting tips
  • Resources
  • Supplies
  • Progression

You will be encouraged to post pictures of your work and Tracey will give you ongoing feedback. You will also be able to join in the discussion with other group members. You will be able to pick up heaps of experience from each other.
Please note that if you want to sell any jewellery that you make using silver clay, then in the UK you are legally required to add your hallmark to any item weighing 7.78gm or more. Further information is available in the Hallmarking page.

You can email me at tracey@craftworx.co.uk or call me on 07961 883115