Metal Clay Book with Patrik Kusek 2-1-27 Tucson

Date: Monday, Feb 1, 2027 Time: 9:00am - 6:00pm Location: Casino del Sol, 5655 W. Valencia Rd, Tucson AZ 85757 Meeting Room B Skill level: Intermediate Instructor: Patrik Kusek Create a miniature fine silver booklet with working hinges, a functional latch, and a small window detail, designed to showcase tiny pieces of ephemera. In this class, we’ll use paper texture tools and texture plates with metal clay to add surface pattern and detail to the booklet covers. Patrik Kusek will guide students through planning and building the booklet structure so it opens and closes smoothly, then show how to add paper-inspired textures to the covers for a clean, intentional finish. You’ll learn construction strategies for reliable movement, alignment, and fit so the hinges and latch function properly after firing and finishing. In this class, students will learn: ∙How to use paper-style texture plates/tools to texture metal clay surfaces ∙How to design and construct a miniature booklet form intended to showcase small ephemera ∙Techniques for building working hinges that function smoothly ∙How to make and fit a working latch for secure closure ∙How to incorporate and refine a small window detail in the booklet design ∙Refining, firing, and finishing tips to keep texture crisp and moving parts functional Kit Fee: $100 — Basic metal clay tool kits will be available for use. Kit includes: ∙15-gram packet of Project X fine silver metal clay ∙5” 18-gauge sterling silver wire ∙(2) paper textures ∙2mm brass rod By the end of the class, students will have a miniature metal clay booklet (completed or in final assembly depending on drying/firing schedules) featuring paper-inspired surface texture and functional hardware elements.