Make Your Own Metal Keepsake

A hands-on, beginner-friendly crafting experience in Big Bear—no prior metalsmithing experience necessary! Spend a relaxed 1.5 hours working with real metals to create a completely custom piece to take home. Using copper, brass, and nickel silver, you will learn foundational cold-connection techniques to design a one-of-a-kind keepsake. Perfect for locals, visitors, date days, or creative learners. What You'll Make Choose one of the following items to create during the session: A Pendant: Ready to wear on a cord or chain. A Keychain: A durable, handmade keepsake for everyday use. A Bag Charm: A unique metal accent to carry with you. What You'll Learn Texture & Shape: Experiment with hammers, design stamps, and layering to build your pattern. Cold Connections: Learn how to accurately mark, drill, punch, and assemble your pieces using rivets. Finishing: File, smooth, and polish your creation until it's ready to wear or use. Details & Logistics Duration: 1.5 hours Class Size: Intimate group (maximum 4 participants). Plenty of one-on-one guidances. Tuition: $40 per person (includes all project materials, use of professional studio tools, and step-by-step instruction) Age Requirement: Beginner-friendly; younger participants must be accompanied by an adult. _______________________________________________________________________ Safety & Dress Code Closed-Toe Shoes Required: Open-toed shoes, sandals, or flats are strictly prohibited for your safety around heavy tools, benches, and dropped equipment. Appropriate Clothing: Wear natural fibers (such as cotton or denim) instead of loose, flowing synthetics, and avoid dangling sleeves or loose clothing that could catch on machinery or tools. Hair & Accessories: Secure long hair back, and remove long necklaces, scarves, or dangling bracelets before entering the workspace. Eye Protection: Safety glasses will be provided and must be worn during active cutting, hammering, or torch work. Workshop Attire: Bring a sturdy denim, canvas, or workshop apron if you have one, or wear older clothes that you don't mind getting stained by dark metal patinas, polishing compounds, or workshop grime. I have some available to borrow as well.