In this class students will create a stained glass mosaic in an 8" x 10" frame. Students will have a choice of photographs to work with, or may bring their own if desired. Students will be instructed on how to grout their piece, which is recommended but not required. This class is suitable for students of any level.
This class will cover the basic process of forging pattern-welded Damascus steel. Students will weld up several small billets and explore the basics of pattern development. Students will also explore several common methods of forge welding as well as covering the science of forge welding. Students can expect to learn the process of choosing steels that will give good pattern and function well together in the final billet. The class will cover how to lay out and prepare the steel for forge welding both in the starting stack and in subsequent re-stacks. Special attention will be given to hand work and the making of patterns well suited to limited machinery. The main areas of pattern development will be explored as well as touching on some more advanced patterning techniques. Once the billets are forged and patterned, the class will grind and polish a window or sample tile to etch and reveal the pattern. The class will cover several techniques to etch the sample for higher contrast. The techniques taught in class should offer students the building blocks to begin an exploration of Damascus patterns on their own. Experience of basic blacksmithing techniques suggested.
Sharpening and honing of blades is a mystery to most people these days although our ancestors knew the skill intimately. Technology of honing has definitely improved over the past 100 years and there are many technologies to choose from. Howard will demystify the sharpening process and you will leave the workshop with the skills to sharpen your own blades. Students should bring one or two blades to hone for the class.
Sterling alloys in clay form are stronger than pure silver and easy to work with making it ideal for ring making. It is possible to either purchase a .950 sterling clay or make a .960 clay (a 50/50 combination of pure silver clay and .925 sterling clay). The emphasis in this class will be on making rings, but you are also welcome to use some of your clay to make other items as well. While this class is ideal for those with metal clay experience, it is open to anyone with an interest in learning metal clay techniques for making rings with metal clay.
Internationally known cheesemakers Sheila Flanagan and Sal Speights return for this second course in the Art of Cheesemaking. In this course students will learn to make fresh cheeses including chevre, fromage frais, and fromage blanc. This class will also include discussion of flavoring and packaging variations. Please note: Students will check in at the Folk School, 51 Main Street, Lake Luzerne, NY. They will then travel to Nettle Meadow's Plant/Tasting Room 1256 Lake Ave., Lake Luzerne, NY for the duration of the class.
