Beginner Jewelry Making Class at Studio 44
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Dates TBD

$180.00 ($45 per class)

Space is limited to 7 students. Copper, brass and use of tools included.

This is a 4 week class that will introduce you to the basic techniques of working in metal through different projects. Cutting a circle out of copper or brass to then texture and form will teach you to use the jewelry saw, drills, files, chasing tools, daps and hammers. Working with wire to create earrings or pendants will teach you about forming and forging metal, the different gauges (or thicknesses), and use of pliers. We will take our wire work a step further to create a linked bracelet or chain. Then we'll finish the class with creating a ring

$180.00 ($45 per class)

"Kathleen DiResta is one of those rare mixtures of creativity, talent, and competence as a teacher. Having been a student of Kathleen’s for several years, I have seen her universe of skill demonstrated in complex metal and jewelry designs, depth of knowledge of not only the jewelry business itself but its applied practices, and most of all her capacity to connect with each student in a personal and professional manner. Her easy going manner belies her track record and years of experience as a jewelry professional. Kathleen instills in each of her students a “can do” attitude, encourages all to plumb their individual well of creativity, and achieve his/her own level of confidence and competence. The adherence to and discussion of ethical standards in the jewelry industry is a constant and standard practice in Kathleen’s class.

Because Kathleen is a knowledgeable and patient teacher, students do not often find her “finishing their projects” just to get them done. Each student is encouraged to problem solve and develop their own level of skill. It’s hard to imagine someone of Kathleen’s talent and achievement not having become self consumed and a “jewelry snob”!! Kathleen’s classes are a delight! They provide a secure, non-judgmental opportunity for validation of one’s creative spirit, the chance to develop a significant and serious skill set, and to interact with others who seek the same.

I have witnessed Kathleen’s approach to her role as teacher, mentor, critic, and professional. As a Graduate Gemology student at the Gemological Institute of America, I am able to sort out those who aspire to be “in the jewelry profession” and those who actually achieve the level of competence, education, and skill of true jewelry professionals.

Kathleen DiResta is one such person who is all of that, and more!"

-Patricia Bishop-Kelly ( GG candidate/student GIA)

My first jewelry teacher was great, when she left and I got a new teacher I was more than a little anxious, but I thought "why not" since I loved making jewelry. I am so happy I got Kathleen as my new teacher. My first teacher give me the background for metalsmithing, but Kathleen has opened a whole new world for the creative and artistic side of jewelry making.

She is enthusiastic and fun to be around. She brings a different perspective to the class because she has been a jeweler for many years. We see the projects she is currently working on for clients. She shows us technics in jewelry making, which she make look so easy. She advises us on our own projects which brings them to whole new level, and she always has great ideas to improve our pieces.

I am really happy that I have Kathleen as my teacher.

-Karla McCurdy | Technology Coordinator

Kathleen is truly a gifted teacher who generously shares her wealth of knowledge, techniques, her vast bank of tricks , laughter & music!

I highly recommend Kathleen’s classes to both experienced & inexperienced people that have a desire to learn!

-Teresa Stainback