Textured Stacked Rings (June 17, 2023)
2023-06-17 14:00 - 18:00 (America/Chicago) | HGMS Clubhouse, 10805 Brooklet Dr., Houston, TX, 77099, United States
Date & Time: Saturday, June 17, 2023 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Instructor: Carmen Fraticelli

Learn to make and texture a set of stacking rings from scratch. This class is appropriate for the beginning silversmith or for more experienced silversmiths who wish to expand their knowledge of basic ring making. The class will cover creating rings and the fundamentals of finishing a piece (the key to making it look professional). Each student will leave with 2 to 4 rings and a set of basic finishing tools. Rings will be in both brass and sterling silver.
You will learn to calculate wire length; form & solder ring band; polish & finish piece(s) using a flex-shaft; texturing ring bands using hammers, chisels, and burs.
Cost: $70/student for HGMS Members; $90/student for Non-Members (Cost includes all materials and tools)
Teacher Bio: Carmen Fraticelli supervises the Jewelry Shop several times each month where she provides members with assistance in progressing their projects. She has been silversmithing full-time for 3 years and part-time for over 10 years.

Tree of Life Wire Wrapped Pendant (Sept 13, 2023)
2023-09-13 12:00 - 16:00
Wednesday, September 13th from Noon to 4:00 PM.
WIRE WRAPPING – TREE OF LIFE PENDANT: Learn to create a wire-wrapped tree-of-life onto a cabochon. Maggie Manley will teach you step-by-step to create a bezel / tree-of-life on a cabochon, as shown on the attached photos. With just a little patience and beginning wire wrapping skills you will be thrilled with your pendant.
COST: $45.00 for HGMS members, $55.00 for non-members + cost of cabochon, if desired.
Maximum of 6-students.
Wire is and tool usage is included.
Cabochon provided by student, or may be purchased at the class.

Cabochon 101 (Sept 15, 2023)
2023-09-15 12:00 - 16:00
Date & Time: Friday, September 15th from Noon to 4:00 PM
Learn to shape and polish a beautiful cabochon in our newly renovated Lapidary Shop with Sharon Halton, Shop Manager. You will leave with a completed, polished cabochon of high quality. Sharon is offering two classes in September. Choose Friday, September 15th from Noon to 4:00PM or Friday, September 22nd from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Cost: $45 member and $60 non-member
All materials are provided.
Minimum age is 14.
Maximum of 5-students.

Textured Rings Class (Sept 16, 2023)
2023-09-16 12:30 - 17:30
TEXTURED RING CLASS: Carmen Fraticelli – Saturday, September 16th from 12:30 to 5:30 PM
Learn to make and texture a set of stacking rings from scratch with Carmen Fraticelli. This class is appropriate for the beginning silversmith or for expanding one’s knowledge of basic ring making. The class will cover creating rings and the fundamentals of finishing a piece (the key to making it look professional). Each student will leave with 1-2 rings and a set of basic finishing tools.
• 5 hour class (12:30 – 5:30pm)
• Max 4 students, min 2
• Cost – $85/student for HGMS members and $100 for non-members
• Students will leave with 1-2 finished rings, brass and/or sterling silver, and a set of finishing/polishing tools
Learning to:
▪ Calculate length needed for ring size
▪ Form & solder ring band
▪ Polishing & finishing using a flex shaft
▪ Texturing using hammers, chisels, and burs
▪ A toolbox rental is included with the class. No additional tools are required.
• Materials, polishing and texturing tools provided by instructor
• Class to be held in clubhouse Jewelry Studio. Will overlap open studio hours but will extend into after hours.

Carmen Fraticelli has been silversmithing full-time for 3 years, and part-time for over 10. She supervises the Jewelry Studio several times a month to provide members with assistance in progressing their projects.

Cabochon 101 (Sept 26, 2023)
2023-09-26 14:00 - 18:00
Date & Time: Tuesday, September 26nd from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Learn to shape and polish a beautiful cabochon in our newly renovated Lapidary Shop with Sharon Halton, Shop Manager. You will leave with a completed, polished cabochon of high quality. Sharon is offering two classes in September.
Cost: $45 member and $60 non-member
All materials are provided.
Minimum age is 14.
Maximum of 5-students.

Beaded Bezel Cabochon (Sept 27, 2023)
2023-09-27 12:00 - 16:00
Wednesday, September 27th from Noon to 4:00 PM
BEADED BEZEL CABOCHON: Learn to create a beaded bezel on on one of your own cabochons. You will use Peyote stitch with small seed beads to surround your cabochon in colors designed to complement individual cabochons. This is a beginner to moderate level class. Beads, needles, and thread, bead mats and tool usage are included. Bring your own cabochon; or, you may purchase one at the class (prices vary). Bring magnification. This simple and fast method creates beautiful and unique settings for your cabochons in just a few hours. Examples of Peyote projects will be available for understanding the versatility of this popular beading stitch. Oval cabochons are recommended for beginners; however, this technique can be used on many shapes with a little experience. Wednesday, September 27th from Noon to 4:00 PM.
COST: $45.00 for HGMS members, $55.00 for non-members.
Cost includes Beads, thread, and needle.
Cabochon provided by student, or you may purchase a cabochon at the class.
Maximum of 8-students.
Class taught by Maggie Manley.

JEWELRY DESIGN (DAY CLASS) Sept 29, 2023
2023-09-29 12:00 - 16:00
JEWELRY DESIGN (DAY CLASS)
Date: Friday, September 29th Time: Noon to 4:00 pm
This course will introduce you to the toolbox of ideas and workflow that allow you to transform your inspiration into jewelry that reflects your personal taste and style. You’ll have more confidence in your designs and will be able to solve design issues before you start fabricating.
During the four-hour class we’ll learn about design principles, look at a lot of jewelry designs and practice the kind of activities you can use to create your own designs at home. Students should bring a pair of scissors, a 12” ruler and a fine line black marker like an ultra-fine Sharpie. A class handout will be provided online after class but feel free to bring note-taking materials with you.
These principles are applicable to all areas of jewelry making: beading, wire wrapping, metalsmithing, lapidary and mixed media.
Cost: $35
Location: Middle Classroom or General Meeting Room, depending on enrollment

Textured Rings Class (Sept 30, 2023)
2023-09-30 12:30 - 17:30
TEXTURED RING CLASS: Carmen Fraticelli – Saturday, September 30th from 12:30 to 5:30 PM
Learn to make and texture a set of stacking rings from scratch with Carmen Fraticelli. This class is appropriate for the beginning silversmith or for expanding one’s knowledge of basic ring making. The class will cover creating rings and the fundamentals of finishing a piece (the key to making it look professional). Each student will leave with 1-2 rings and a set of basic finishing tools.
• 5 hour class (12:30 – 5:30pm)
• Max 4 students, min 2
• Cost – $85/student for HGMS members and $100 for non-members
• Students will leave with 1-2 finished rings, brass and/or sterling silver, and a set of finishing/polishing tools
Learning to:
▪ Calculate length needed for ring size
▪ Form & solder ring band
▪ Polishing & finishing using a flex shaft
▪ Texturing using hammers, chisels, and burs
▪ A toolbox rental is included with the class. No additional tools are required.
• Materials, polishing and texturing tools provided by instructor
• Class to be held in clubhouse Jewelry Studio. Will overlap open studio hours but will extend into after hours.

Carmen Fraticelli has been silversmithing full-time for 3 years, and part-time for over 10. She supervises the Jewelry Studio several times a month to provide members with assistance in progressing their projects.

JEWELRY DESIGN (EVENING CLASS) Oct 6, 2023
2023-10-06 17:00 - 21:00
JEWELRY DESIGN (EVENING CLASS)
Date: Friday, October 6th Time: 5:00 to 9:00 pm
This course will introduce you to the toolbox of ideas and workflow that allow you to transform your inspiration into jewelry that reflects your personal taste and style. You’ll have more confidence in your designs and will be able to solve design issues before you start fabricating.
During the four-hour class we’ll learn about design principles, look at a lot of jewelry designs and practice the kind of activities you can use to create your own designs at home. Students should bring a pair of scissors, a 12” ruler and a fine line black marker like an ultra-fine Sharpie. A class handout will be provided online after class but feel free to bring note-taking materials with you.
These principles are applicable to all areas of jewelry making: beading, wire wrapping, metalsmithing, lapidary and mixed media.
Cost: $35
Location: Middle Classroom or General Meeting Room, depending on enrollment

Faceting 101 - 2 Day Class Oct 16-17
2023-10-16 09:00 - 2023-10-17 12:00
FACETING 101: Monday, October 16th and Tuesday, October 17th
This 2-part class will give a basic understanding of the Faceting process. We will take a rough stone to a finished state, learn how to use and care for Faceting equipment, and discuss how to read Faceting diagrams. All equipment and supplies for this class will be provided.
Date: October 16 (Part 1) and October 17 (Part 2)
Time: 9am till noon each day. (First half of the class will be Monday, October 16th.
Second half of class will be Tuesday, October 17th
Location: HGMS Clubhouse
Cost: $225.00 for HGMS members; $250 for non-HGMS members
Class size: Limited to two-students
Instructor: Heidi Shelley
If you are interested in future Faceting classes E-mail: Classes@HGMS.org to be placed on a list and Heidi may arrange for more faceting classes in the future

Tree of Life Wire Wrapped Pendant (Jan 14, 2024)
2024-01-14 13:00 - 16:00
Sunday, January 14th from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Cost: Member Cost $50.00; Non-Member Cost $65.00, plus cabochon, if purchased
WIRE WRAPPING – TREE OF LIFE PENDANT: Maggie will teach you to wire wrap a tree sculpture onto your cabochon (see photo of example). You will learn many fabrication recommendations to create a beautiful tree on your cab. It is recommended that your cab be relatively simple in texture and color so that the wire tree stands out from the stone background. Several wire colors will be available to complement your pendant (silver, brass, or copper). The cab size should be approximately 1-3/8″ wide by 2″ high. This is an intermediate wire-wrapping class. It requires manipulating wire and fabricating a free-form tree shape that wraps around your cabochon. The most challenging part of this project is neatly terminating each of the branch-wires at the back of the pendant, as it requires some patience. You will be proud of your creation and able to make more on your own. Written instructions and resources will be provided to recreate these pendants at home.
Misc.: Students provide an oval cabochon for their Tree-of-Life Pendant; or, they can purchase a cab in class. Wire and tool usage is included in the class cost. Students will leave with ability to complete the pendant, if not completed in class.
Bring to class: Cabochon and magnifiers, if needed. You may also bring a light for extra visibility.

Maximum of 6-students.
Cabochon provided by student, or may be purchased at the class.

Cabochon 101 (Jan 20, 2024)
2024-01-20 15:00 - 19:00
Date: Saturday, January 20th, from 3 PM to 7 PM

Cost: Member Cost: $60.00; Non-Member Cost: $75.00
Location: Center Classroom and Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Taught by Sharon Halton, Shop Manager

Description: This class includes a discussion of how to create cabochons and examples of cabs in various stages of development. Sharon will provide each student with a pre-cut, preformed, and dopped cabochon to shape, while their chosen slab is curing from the dopping process. Students will select a slab and shown how to use a template to outline the cab shape and use the the trim saw to roughly shape the cabochon outline. Students will roughly outline their slab and dop it. Each student will leave with 2-cabochons and the knowledge to finish them, if they have not completed them in class. Students will learn the best way to use the equipment in the Lapidary Shop so that they can work semi-independently and confidently in the shop afterwards with oversight from Shop Managers. This class is highly recommended for those wishing to utilize the Lapidary Shop.
Misc.: Minimum of 3-students; Maximum of 5-students; Students must be 16 years +

Cabochon 101 (Jan 29, 2024)
2024-01-29 11:00 - 15:00
Date: Monday, January 29th, from 11 AM to 3 PM

Cost: Member Cost: $60.00; Non-Member Cost: $75.00
Location: Center Classroom and Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Taught by Sharon Halton, Shop Manager

Description: This class includes a discussion of how to create cabochons and examples of cabs in various stages of development. Sharon will provide each student with a pre-cut, preformed, and dopped cabochon to shape, while their chosen slab is curing from the dopping process. Students will select a slab and shown how to use a template to outline the cab shape and use the the trim saw to roughly shape the cabochon outline. Students will roughly outline their slab and dop it. Each student will leave with 2-cabochons and the knowledge to finish them, if they have not completed them in class. Students will learn the best way to use the equipment in the Lapidary Shop so that they can work semi-independently and confidently in the shop afterwards with oversight from Shop Managers. This class is highly recommended for those wishing to utilize the Lapidary Shop.
Misc.: Minimum of 3-students; Maximum of 5-students; Students must be 16 years +

Jewelry Design (Jan 31, 2024)
2024-01-31 17:30 - 21:00
Date: Wednesday, January 31st, from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
Cost: Member Cost $40.00; Non-Member Cost $50.00
Location: Main Meeting Room in HGMS Clubhouse
Instructor: Jeanean Slamen
Description: This class will introduce you to the toolbox of ideas and workflow that allow you to transform your inspiration into jewelry that reflects your personal taste and style. You’ll have more confidence in your designs and will be able to solve design issues before you start fabricating. During the class we’ll learn about design principles, evaluate various jewelry designs, and practice the kind of activities you can use to create your own designs at home. A class handout will be provided for note taking. These principles are applicable to every method and style of jewelry making.

Misc.: Registration for this class closes on Sunday, January 28th.
Minimum 3-students
Bring to Class: Your favorite doodling tool, such as a soft lead pencil or fine line marker.

Beaded Bezel Cabochon Class (Feb 18, 2024)
2024-02-18 12:00 - 16:00
Date: Sunday, February 18th, from Noon to 4:00 PM
Cost: Member Cost $45.00 ; Non-Member Cost $55.00
Description: Learn to create a beaded bezel on on one of your own cabochons. You will use Peyote stitch with small seed beads to surround your cabochon in colors designed to complement individual cabochons. This is a beginner to moderate level class. Beads, needles, and thread, bead mats and tool usage are included. Bring your own cabochon; or, you may purchase one at the class (prices vary). Bring magnification. This simple and fast method creates beautiful and unique settings for your cabochons in just a few hours. Examples of Peyote projects will be available for understanding the versatility of this popular beading stitch. Oval cabochons are recommended for beginners; however, this technique can be used on many shapes with a little experience.
Cost includes Beads, thread, and needle. Cabochon provided by student, or you may purchase a cabochon at the class.
Maximum of 8-students
Instructor: Class taught by Maggie Manley
Location: HGMS Clubhouse Center Classroom

Bring: Cabochon of your choice (small oval shape is easier to finish within class time frame. Beading needle (#10 or 12), Magnification and project lamp, if needed. All other supplies provided (beads, thread), tool usage is also included in cost of class.

CABS 101 Class (Feb 19, 2024)
2024-02-19 11:00 - 15:00
Date: Monday, February 19th, 11:00AM to 3:00PM
Cost: Member Cost: $60.00; Non-Member Cost: $75.00
Location: Center Classroom and Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Sharon Halton
Description: This class includes a discussion of how to create cabochons and examples of cabs in various stages of development. Sharon Halton, Shop Manager, will provide each student with a pre-cut, preformed, and dopped cabochon to shape, while their chosen slab is curing from the dopping process. Students will select a slab and shown how to use a template to outline the cab shape and use the trim saw to roughly shape the cabochon outline. Students will roughly outline their slab and dop it. Each student will leave with 2-cabochons and the knowledge to finish them, if they have not completed them in class. Students will learn the best way to use the equipment in the Lapidary Shop so that they can work semi-independently and confidently in the shop afterwards with oversight from Shop Managers. This class is highly recommended for those wishing to utilize the Lapidary Shop.

Misc.: Minimum of 3-students; Maximum of 5-students
*Students must be 16 years

Cabochon 101 (Feb 24, 2024)
2024-02-24 14:30 - 18:30
Date: Saturday, February 24th, 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM
Cost: Member Cost: $60.00; Non-Member Cost: $75.00
Location: Center Classroom and Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Sharon Halton
Description: This class includes a discussion of how to create cabochons and examples of cabs in various stages of development. Sharon Halton, Shop Manager, will provide each student with a pre-cut, preformed, and dopped cabochon to shape, while their chosen slab is curing from the dopping process. Students will select a slab and shown how to use a template to outline the cab shape and use the trim saw to roughly shape the cabochon outline. Students will roughly outline their slab and dop it. Each student will leave with 2-cabochons and the knowledge to finish them, if they have not completed them in class. Students will learn the best way to use the equipment in the Lapidary Shop so that they can work semi-independently and confidently in the shop afterwards with oversight from Shop Managers. This class is highly recommended for those wishing to utilize the Lapidary Shop.

Misc.: Minimum of 3-students; Maximum of 5-students
*Students must be 16 years

Cabochon 101 (Mar 11, 2024)
2024-03-11 11:00 - 15:00
Date: Monday, March 11th, from 11 AM to 3 PM

Cost: Member Cost: $60.00; Non-Member Cost: $75.00
Location: Center Classroom and Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Taught by Sharon Halton, Shop Manager

Description: This class includes a discussion of how to create cabochons and examples of cabs in various stages of development. Sharon Halton, Shop Manager, will provide each student with a pre-cut, preformed, and dopped cabochon to shape, while their chosen slab is curing from the dopping process. Students will select a slab and shown how to use a template to outline the cab shape and use the trim saw to roughly shape the cabochon outline. Students will roughly outline their slab and dop it. Each student will leave with 2-cabochons and the knowledge to finish them, if they have not completed them in class. Students will learn the best way to use the equipment in the Lapidary Shop so that they can work semi-independently and confidently in the shop afterwards with oversight from Shop Managers. This class is highly recommended for those wishing to utilize the Lapidary Shop.

Misc.: Minimum of 3-students; Maximum of 5-students; Students must be 16 years +

Wire Wrapping Tree of Life (Mar 18, 2024)
2024-03-18 15:00 - 19:00
Date: Monday, March 18th 3:00 to 7:00 PM

Cost: Member Cost $50.00; Non-Member Cost $65.00 (includes tool usage & wire)
Location: HGMS Clubhouse
Instructor: Maggie Manley

Description: Learn to wire wrap a Tree of Life on a cabochon to create a pendant on the cabochon of your choice. Maggie Manley will teach you step by step through the process of creating this wire wrap sculpture. You will leave with your pendant, the knowledge to finish it (if not finished in class), written instructions, and online resources. Bring your own oval cabochon approximately 30 mm X 25 mm or a smaller practice cab will be provided

Misc.: Minimum 2-students; Maximum 8-students. This project is between beginner level to moderate skill level

Pearl Knotting Class (Mar 21, 2024)
2024-03-21 12:00 - 14:00
Date: Thursday, March 21st Noon to 2 PM

Cost: Member Cost $35.00; Non-Member Cost $45.00 (Cost includes tool usage & materials)
Location: HGMS Clubhouse
Instructor: Maggie Manley

Description:Learn the art of knotting between beads and how to properly finish a strand with findings for long-term wear. Maggie Manley will teach you to knot a string of beads on silk thread and other types of thread sized properly according to the hole-size of specific beads. We will practice on pearls with silk and several other types of beads with different threads. Emphasis will be placed on selecting the correct thread to match the bead hole size, consistent knot sizes and spacing, and how to end the strand for long-term wear. Practice beads will be provided; or, you may bring your own beads. This class will emphasize practicing the art of knotting, rather than producing a finished strand, depending on individual expertise. Several methods of knotting will be demonstrated.

Misc.:

Minimum 2-students; Maximum 6-students
This is a beginner level to higher skill level class
Bring magnifiers and auxiliary light, if desired

Twisted Hoop Earrings Class (Mar 23, 2024)
2024-03-23 12:00 - 16:00
Date: Sunday, March 23rd, Noon to 4 PM

Cost: Member Cost: $85.00; Non-Member Cost: $100.00 (Tool box rental is included)
Location: Class to be held in clubhouse Jewelry Studio. Will overlap open studio hours but will extend into after hours.
Instructor: Carmen Fraticelli

Background: I’ve been silversmithing for full time for 4 years, part time for over 10. I supervise the Jewelry Studio several times a month to provide members with assistance in progressing their projects.

Description: Learn to make a pair of twisted hoop earrings from scratch! This class is appropriate for the beginning silversmith or for expanding one’s knowledge of basic silversmithing. It does require the participant to have some basic experience in soldering.

The class will cover the fundamentals of creating twists in square wire, forming hoops, and soldering earring posts. All pieces will be in sterling silver. Each student will leave with a pair of hoop earrings in the size of their choice (up to 5.5” length total).

We will discuss how to use these techniques to make other hoop earrings (simple or with twisted wire)

Misc.: Max 6 students, Min 2

Cabochon 101 (Jul 16, 2024)
2024-07-16 18:30 - 22:00
Date: Tuesday, July 16th – 6:30-10:00 PM

Cost: Member Cost: $75.00; Non-Member Cost: $100.00 (Hint: It may be cost effective to join HGMS at $40/year).
Location: Center Classroom and Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Taught by Sharon Halton, Shop Manager

Description:
Will be taught by Sharon Halton on Tuesday, July 16th – 6:30-10:00 PM in the center classroom and Lapidary Shop. This popular class covers the basic use of the Lapidary Shop equipment and teaches how to properly and efficiently cut, shape, and polish a cabochon. The student will leave with one or two completed cabochons. This class is highly recommended for anyone who wants to use the Lapidary Shop and it is a required class for the Advanced Shapes Class that is being newly introduced into HGMS Class listing.

There is a 5-person limit for this class; so, sign up promptly as it is a popular class.
All supplies & equipment are provided.

Advanced Shape Cabbing (Jul 29, 2024)
2024-07-29 18:30 - 22:00
Date: Tuesday, July 29th – 6:30-10:00 PM

Cost: Member Cost: $100.00; Non-Member Cost: $125.00 (Hint: It may be cost effective to join HGMS at $40/year).
Location: Center Classroom and Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Taught by Sharon Halton, Shop Manager

Description: This is an advanced class to learn how to make 2-sided cabochons, hearts, crosses, and square shaped cabochons.

Students must have completed the basic class previously to attend this class. (Must have completed CABS 101 Class previously).

Member price – $100, non-members – $125
5 person limit for this class
All supplies & equipment are provided.

Byzantine Chainmaille Bracelet (Oct 20, 2024)
2024-10-20 12:00 - 16:00
Class: Byzantine Chainmaille Bracelet, HGMS Center Classroom NEW CLASS
Date/Time: Sunday, October 20 from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Instructor: Carmen Fraticelli
Cost: $60.00 Members; $75 Non-Members
Minimum of 3 students; Maximum of 4 students
NOTES:

All materials will be provided to make a bracelet up to 8″ in length; additional rings may be purchased from the Instructor for longer bracelets up to 10″
Students will need 2 pair of pliers for this class – 2 small flat nose or chain nose pliers with no teeth; non-sticky bead mats can be helpful
Students may rent HGMS tools if needed for $5 (payable at class)

Learn to make a Byzantine style bracelet using the ancient art of Chainmaille. Participants will complete a single bracelet in bronze & black or just bronze, perfect for adding to your fall wardrobe! This class is appropriate for beginners, any age from 15 on up. The class will cover some of the basics of chainmaille as an art form and provide participants with the knowledge to continue making Byzantine style chains in a variety of lengths & thicknesses.
Students will learn:

Terminology and basics of how chainmaille weaves are constructed
How to use pliers to weave a complex chain
How to use AR (aspect ratio) to make thicker/ thinner examples of any weave

Cabochon 101 (Nov 25, 2024)
2024-11-25 12:00 - 16:00
Date: Monday, November 25th, from 12 PM to 4 PM

Cost: Member Cost: $60.00; Non-Member Cost: $85.00
Location: Center Classroom and Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Taught by Sharon Halton, Shop Manager

Description: This popular class covers the basic use of the Lapidary Shop equipment and teaches how to properly and efficiently cut, shape, and polish a cabochon. The student will leave with one or two completed cabochons. This class is highly recommended for anyone who wants to use the Lapidary Shop and it is a required class for the Advanced Shapes Class that is being newly introduced into HGMS Class listing.

There is a 5-person limit for this class; so, sign up promptly as it is a popular class.
All supplies & equipment are provided.
Students must be 15 years +

Twisted Hoop Earrings Class (Dec 8, 2024)
2024-12-08 12:00 - 16:00
STERLING SILVER TWISTED HOOP EARRING CLASS on Sunday, December 8th from Noon to 4:00 PM with Carmen Fraticelli
Learn to make a pair of twisted hoop earrings from scratch with Carmen Fraticelli, professional silversmith! This class is appropriate for the beginning silversmith or for expanding one’s knowledge of basic silversmithing. It does require the participant to have soldered at least once before. The class will cover the fundamentals of creating twists in square wire, forming hoops, and soldering earring posts. All pieces will be in sterling silver. Each student will leave with a pair of hoop earrings in the size of their choice (up to 5.5” length total). We will discuss how to use these techniques to make other hoop earrings (simple or with twisted wire).

Date: Sunday, December 8th
Time: 4-hour class (12:00 – 4:00pm)
Maximum 6-students, minimum 2-students
Cost: $98/student for members; non-member Cost is $115/student
Tools: Tool rental is included in registration fee
Location: Class to be held in clubhouse Jewelry Studio. Will overlap open studio hours but will extend into after hours.

Wide Band Textured Rings Class (Dec 29, 2024)
2024-12-29 12:00 - 17:00
Learn to make and texture a 6mm wide band ring from scratch. This class is appropriate for the beginning silversmith or for expanding one’s knowledge of basic ring making. The class will cover creating rings and the fundamentals of finishing a piece (the key to making it look professional). Each student will create 1 silver ring.

5 hour class (12:00 – 5:00pm)
Max 6 students, min 4
Cost – $110/student (member); nonmember $130/student
Students will learn to

Calculate length needed for ring size
Form & solder ring band
Polishing & finishing
Texturing using various tools

If you’ve taken the Textured Stacking Rings class, you’ll see how different working with a wide band from sheet is
Tool rental is included
Materials provided by instructor, bands will be 6mm wide
Class to be held in clubhouse Jewelry Studio. Will overlap open studio hours but will extend into after hours.
Students must bring a mask (N95 or KN95)

Cabochon 101 (Mar 24, 2025)
2025-03-24 10:00 - 14:00
Class: CABS 101 (3-dates available)
Location: HGMS Clubhouse, 10805 Brooklet Drive, Houston, TX 77099, Center Classroom/Lapidary Shop
Instructor: Sharon Halton
Cost: Member Cost $65.00; Non-Member Cost $85.00
Minimum: 3-students; Maximum: 5-students
NOTE: Students must be at least 15 years old (exception with approval of instructor ONLY)

THREE DATES AVAILABLE:

Monday, March 24 from 10 to 2pm
Monday, April 21 from 10 to 2pm
Monday, May 19 from 10 to 2pm

This class includes a discussion of how to create cabochons and examples of cabs in various stages of development. Sharon Halton, Shop Manager, will provide each student with a pre-cut, preformed, and dopped cabochon to shape while their chosen slab is curing from the dopping process. Students will select a slab and learn how to use a template to outline the cab shape and use the trim saw to roughly shape the cabochon outline. Each student will leave with 2-cabochons and the knowledge to finish them, if they have not completed them in class. Students will learn the best way to use the equipment in the Lapidary Shop so that they can work semi-independently and confidently in the shop afterwards with oversight from Shop Managers. This class is highly recommended for those wishing to utilize the Lapidary Shop.

Textured Stacking Rings (Apr 6, 2025)
2025-04-06 12:00 - 17:00
Learn to make and texture a set of stacking rings from scratch. This class is appropriate for the beginning silversmith or for expanding one’s knowledge of basic ring making. The class will cover creating rings and the fundamentals of finishing a piece (the key to making it look
professional). Each student will leave with 1-2 rings.

5 hour class (12:00 – 5:00pm)
Max 6 students, min 3
Cost – $96/student (member); $120/student (nonmember)
Students will learn to
o Calculate length needed for ring size
o Form & solder ring band
o Polishing & finishing
o Texturing using various tools
Materials provided by instructor; tools provided by HGMS
Class is to be held in clubhouse Jewelry Studio. Will overlap open studio hours but will
extend into after hours.
Students must bring a mask (N95 or KN95) – this is to protect your lungs from metal dust
Must be 18 or older
Deadline to register for class: April 4

Beginning Enamel (Apr 16 & 17, 2025)
2025-04-16 10:00 - 2025-04-17 15:00
CLASS DESCRIPTION: BEGINNING ENAMEL PENDANT:
Deborah Kirkpatrick will teach the fundamentals of vitreous enameling in this two-day class. Skills include metal preparation, sifting, wet-packing and counter enameling. We will be transferring the image of a simple sunflower and filling it with colors using both transparent and opaque enamels. We will also cover attaching glass balls to the enamel and applying a black outline to refine the piece.

DATES: This is a 2-day class starting on Wed., April 16th continuing on Thurs., April 17th
TIME: from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM with a short break for lunch each day
LOCATION: HGMS METALSMITH SHOP AT CLUBHOUSE
COST: Member cost $225.00; Non-Member Cost $250.00
MINIMUM class size is 4; MAXIMUM class size is 6
MATERIALS INCLUDED: Enamels, copper blank, a very small liner brush and all other equipment will be provided, along with an inexpensive bezel setting for the finished enamel.

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

Students must wear cotton clothing and closed-toe shoes
Students must bring an N-95 particle mask
Students must bring small craft paintbrushes such as:

https://www.michaels.com/product/golden-synthetic-round-acrylic-brushes-4pc-by-artists-loft-necessities-10171138?com_id=PLP_RecentlyViewed&path=recentlyViewedPlp or these https://www.hobbylobby.com/art-supplies/brushes/curate-colour-mini-paint-brushes—9-piece-set/p/64228?queryId=0bfc822da7b2e36ac6ab1fe7be252283.

Deborah Kirkpatrick is a former Artist in Residence at the Center for Contemporary Crafts, SNAG, HMAG, GANA, HGMS and GIA member.
