Make Your Own Metal Keepsake
Make Your Own Metal Keepsake
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A hands-on creative workshop in Big Bear — no experience necessary!
Looking for something fun and different to do?
Whether you're visiting Big Bear, looking for a creative afternoon with friends, planning a date, or simply want to try something new, this beginner-friendly workshop gives you the chance to work with real metal and create something completely your own.
You'll hammer, texture, layer, and assemble copper, brass, and nickel silver to create a one-of-a-kind pendant, keychain, or bag charm to take home.
No previous jewelry-making or metalsmithing experience is needed. I'll guide you step-by-step through the process, and with a maximum of just four participants, there will be plenty of individual help along the way.
This is a relaxed, hands-on workshop designed for people who want to make something with their own hands—without committing to a long course or investing in a new hobby.
What You'll Do
During the workshop, you'll get to:
- Experiment with precut copper, brass, and nickel silver shapes
- Add texture using hammers, design stamps and studio tools
- Learn how to mark, drill, and punch metal
- Assemble your piece using rivets and other cold connections
- File, smooth, and finish your creation
You'll leave with a one-of-a-kind piece that you made yourself.
Choose to create:
A pendant — ready to wear on a cord or chain
A keychain — a handmade keepsake you can use every day
A bag charm — something unique to carry with you
No two pieces will be exactly alike.
A Fun, Hands-On Learning Experience
This workshop is also a great option for creative learners and homeschool families looking for a hands-on introduction to art, design, and working with metal.
Participants will explore:
- Basic design and composition
- Different properties and colors of metals
- Texture and pattern
- Measuring and planning
- Tool use and safety
- Mechanical connections through riveting
- Problem-solving and creative decision-making
It's a chance to step away from screens, work with real materials, and see an idea go from raw metal to a finished object.
Please note: Because tools are involved, younger participants may need to be accompanied by an adult. Recommended age requirements will be listed with each workshop.
What's Included
- All project materials
- Use of professional metalsmithing tools
- Step-by-step instruction
- Individual guidance in a small group
- Your finished handmade piece to take home
Workshop Details
- Duration: 1.5 -2 hours
- Class Size: Maximum of 4 participants
- Experience Level: Beginner — no previous experience necessary
Come Make Something
Come on your own, bring a friend, plan a creative date, bring the family, or make it part of your next visit to Big Bear.
You don't need to become a metalsmith to enjoy working with metal.
Just bring your curiosity, be ready to try something new, and leave with something you made yourself.
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Care information
Care information
Wear your beautiful jewelry with confidence! Did you know that your body oils can actually help protect metals from tarnishing? It's true! So, don't hesitate to put on your favorite pieces and let them shine. Your natural oils create a protective barrier that keeps tarnish at bay. Just remember to give your jewelry some love and care by cleaning it regularly and storing it safely when you're not wearing it. With a little TLC, your jewelry will continue to dazzle and make you feel fabulous!
As a general rule for all jewelry, avoid abrasives, chemicals like perfume, hairspray, household cleaners and bleached (pool) and sea water. Regular water and mild soap is ok, although excessive exposure to moisture will shorten the life of your jewelry.
Remove before certain activities: Take off your jewelry before engaging in activities that may put it at risk of damage, such as exercising, playing sports, or doing heavy manual work. This helps prevent accidental tugging, bending, or scratching.
Store it properly: When you're not wearing your gold-filled jewelry, store it in a dry and safe place. Consider using a soft pouch or jewelry box with separate compartments to prevent scratching and tangling.
Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is an alloy that contains a 7.25% of copper. Copper tarnishes and oxidizes which in occasion is nice but some people don’t like it.
To solve this issue, use a cleaning solution found in jewelry supply stores or drugstores. Follow directions.
There are good polishing cloths that will do the trick too. Those are specially good to highlight parts when the piece has an oxidized finish. You can find them here
Gold Filled
Gold-filled is made by heat- and pressure-bonding a thin layer of karat gold to a brass (or other base metal) core. The value of gold-filled is greater than gold-plated because gold-filled has an actual layer of karat gold, not just a microscopic film, as is the case with gold-plated items. The karat gold covering also significantly increases the tarnish resistance of the base metal substrate.
Because of this thick layer of gold, it is hypoallergenic and will last a lifetime if cared for properly following instructions above. Sunshine Polishing Cloths are excellent to keep your gold-filled jewelry shining like new.
Brass - Bronze
The copper content in certain metals can cause the skin to turn green or the piece to tarnish, depending on individual skin chemistry and environmental factors. Humid weather may increase the need for maintenance. Applying a thin layer of lacquer or clear nail polish can protect the skin from discoloration, although it will wear off over time and require reapplication. Storing the jewelry in an airtight container, such as a zip-lock bag or one with a tarnish inhibitor, can help prevent tarnishing. Remember, everyone's experience may differ, so taking extra care can help maintain the jewelry's appearance.
Friendly reminder: Copper is an essential trace element that offers various benefits to the body. It plays a crucial role in enzyme function, acts as an antioxidant, aids in iron absorption, supports the immune system, contributes to collagen production, and helps maintain proper nervous system function. While it may cause temporary skin discoloration, copper is not harmful and provides important health benefits.
Leather
Leather items must be kept out of water as possible. Occasional moisture is ok, but do not submerge or shower with leather item to enjoy its beauty longer.
For any additional concerns please don't hesitate to contact me