The simple answer is, everyone! I'm happy to take on all skill levels and will provide two different course options based on desired skill levels. Each of these classes will focus on ring fabrication and stone setting unless you request other wise. No previous experience is necessary for the introduction course.

In this beginners course you will cover the basics and leave the my shop with your own ring! My approach is perfect for all learning types. I'll be creating a ring right beside you, guiding you through each step. The cost of this class includes all sterling silver materials, stones and protective work wear. You'll just need to bring a lunch or I can point you into the direction of some yummy local lunch spots within walking distance from my shop. The start time for this class is 8am on Saturday or Sunday depending on your scheduling needs. This class allows for up to 8 hours of hand held studio time with a 30 minute break. Most students utilize the full 8 hours, it's a full days work! I'm extremely relaxed and want to make sure that your completing your project, I'm happy to stay later if we need the extra time! Here's an overview of what this class entails.

 

• Sanding
• Buffing/ Polishing
• Flex shaft + Attachments
• Soldering 
• Using a Jewelers Saw Correctly
• Setting a Cabochon
• Using a Miter Jig
• Shop Safety 
• Chemical handling and Mixing
• Tool Instruction 

The end goal for this introduction course is to give you the confidence and knowledge to be comfortable navigating this new craft. You will also be given a tool guide that shows you every piece of equipment you’ll need to get started and where to buy it. During your one on one, I'm happy to answer any and all questions you may have, that includes questions about Rio Grande orders and suppliers. 

Total Course Cost - $650 for the day

Course Two: Fabrication and Ring Design

In Course Two I will be building off of what we learned in the first course. This workshop is perfect for people who already know their way around the studio and want help with design work and technique. In this class I will teach you how to layer silver, form silver, dap silver and use repousse stamp work to accomplish your goals. You will leave this class with bezel set cabochon ring featuring a detailed ring shank OR ring face. We can also go with a pendant if you prefer that! This class covers quite a bit of information and is two - 6 hour sessions, preferably back to back. The cost of materials is included with this course, your welcome to bring your own Cabochons to class if preferred but please send me a photo ahead of time so i can approve it. This class covers:

 

• Sweat Soldering
• Stamping
• Doping and Shaping
• Patina techniques 
• Repousse Method
• Polishing Techniques
• Design tips and Guidance

The end goal of this class is to give you a better understanding of how to elevate your pieces through design exploration and fabrication techniques. 

Total Course Cost- $1,200

 

FAQ

1.  What's the shop like? My studio space is located inside of Dirty Hands Garage in Southeast Portland. There is plenty of free parking. This shop space is a functioning Motorcycle repair garage, it can be LOUD and chaotic at times but that only adds to the experience if you ask me! My studio is on the second floor in a private enclosed loft space. Unfortunately this building isn't wheelchair accessible, there is one stair case you'll need to be climbing throughout the day. There are restrooms and dump sinks  available on the first floor. My studio does have a low celling and might be uncomfortable for those over 6'1, its worth mentioning! 
2. What should I bring? If you're sensitive to noise please bring ear protection, we will be using machinery that is loud and messy.
3. What should I wear? I suggest wearing closed toed shoes and anything you don't mind getting dirty. An apron and eye protection will be provided along with a kn95 dust mask for the day.
4. Where will I be working at in the space? You will be set up at your own jewelers bench equip with all the tools you'll need for your project.
5. Do I get to chose my own stone? I will be providing a curated selection of cabochons for you to choose from. This curation will most likely include Turquoise, Agate, Jasper, Moonstone and Labradorite. If you're wanting to work with a specific material please contact me in advance so we can chat!
6. Is there an age restriction? All students must be over the age of 18, a Liability waiver must be signed by students upon arrival.
7. I get a little hangry sometimes, will there be snacks? Yes!! I am the snack queen, let me know if you have any dietary restrictions so i can accommodate.
8. Is it possible to book a class on the weekday? I know that we all have different schedules so yes, its 100% possible to book a weekday class. Please mention this on our call and ill see how I can help.

How do I book?

• Once you've decided on your course please email me directly so we can schedule a quick call to finalize the dates and talk about any other inquiries that may arise. This unique experience is catered towards your needs, so please speak up if you'd like to learn something specific or want to spend more time focusing on a certain technique!
•  Full payment is preferred upfront OR there is a $375 deposit required at the time of booking to hold your spot, cash is preferred or you can check out on my website. Deposits are non refundable under any circumstance. The remaining owed balance will be invoiced to you after our call and must be completed a week before your class (7 days). I will send a reminder email as a courtesy.
• All cancellations and rescheduling must be done at least seven days ahead of your class date. Last minute cancellations and “no-shows” will not be refunded or rescheduled.

E Mail me at- Kelseyyount@gmail.com

 I just want to say thank you so much for being here and considering my mentorship, I believe in you and in all the things you'll accomplish. Please reach out if you have ant further questions, I'm always available to chat

 And lastly, here's a bit about me!

 Hey ya'll it's Kelsey, as some of you know I've been a jeweler in the Portland area for the past ten years but my journey with jewelry started way before then. I grew up being dragged from gem show to bead show, then back to the gem show again always in awe of what the gemological world could offer. When I was a kid I remember sitting around the dinning table with my mother, begging her and my grandmother to bring out the family heirlooms so I could try them all on at the same time. Most of this family collection featured antique American Mined Turquoise pieces from the 1920's-1950s collected by my great grandmother. Needless to say, I've always felt a deep connection to these pieces and wanted to have the skill set to fix them, that's when my dream started. After being discouraged from this path, I finally saved up enough money to take my first introduction to fabrications course at the Multnomah Arts Center in SW Portland. Shortly after this crash course I studied under a mentor and friend for a few months until I felt comfortable using my tools properly. Since that time I've poured countless hours into experimentation, binge watched You Tube tutorials and I even did a workshop at New Approach School for Jewelers in 2019 where my mind was further blown wide open.

My current goal as a jeweler is to continue my education as I study under a goldsmith this upcoming year so I can break into the world of fine jewelry. I'm offering up these classes in hopes of making funds to further my own education while educating others in the process. I will continue to explore every facet of this industry until my fingers fall off. So again, thanks for being here and thank you for trusting me with your journey. Much love!

XOXO ~K