Dimensional Layering with Suzanne Williams
Thursday, November 5, 2026; 10:00AM - 5:00PM PT (Pacific Time)
Friday, November 6, 2026; 10:00AM - 5:00PM PT (Pacific Time)
Saturday, November 7, 2026; 10:00AM - 5:00PM PT (Pacific Time)
Sunday, November 8, 2026; 10:00AM - 5:00PM PT (Pacific Time)
Join Suzanne Williams for this 4-day workshop where she will demonstrate how to use 3 different methods to join components in layers to create 3-dimensional jewelry. All of these layering methods can also be used to create 2 part clasps. The goal will be to create at least 3 projects – with one or two of them able to also function as a clasping mechanism. Suzanne will demonstrate how to plan and develop a design for each method, how to create layers of pierced silver, brass, or copper that work together on different levels, and how to assemble/join the 2 or 3-layered constructions using the following three methods:
Method #1 – Cold connecting layers of sheet using rivets – multiple layers of sheet arestacked and riveted together using rivet pins in combination with spacers (crimp beadsor short lengths of tubing) to create 3-dimensional constructions that have space and dimension between layers. Projects using this method can be created using mixedmetals and can also be adapted to create 2-part clasping mechanisms.
Method #2 – Rectangular wire frames and flat sheet – A rectangular wire frame acts as both a design element and a way to create space and dimension between 2 layers of metal sheet (usually sterling silver) that are soldered directly to the frame. This
construction method can be modified for projects so they can also function as a 2-part clasping mechanism.
Method #3 – Flat sheet with square wire supports - In this layering method, two layers of flat sheet are soldered directly to square wire supports that create space and dimension between layers. This construction method can also be modified to become a 2-part
clasping mechanism. An insert connected to one end of a chain is placed in a channel in the main component, rotated and locked - creating a secure clasp.
This course is available as an in-person workshop or live online class. Please check this page for times and formats available.
Recordings of this class are available for 30 days from the final class session.
A kit of materials is included with this class.
Tools
Classes at our school include use of tools, with each student having their own bench to use during class. Online students will need to have their own tools (see the list of tools below). Feel free to contact us with any questions.
Please check the materials list you recieve after registration if you want to bring additional silver (or other additional metals) to work with. The list also details what is in your kit.
Note: If you wish to work only in silver, you will need to bring additional metal, see the supplies list sent after you register.
Tools Required for Online Students
This is a list of tools online students need to practice the techniques shown in class. (in-person students have tools to use at school)
A list of tools with links to recommended suppliers for the best prices will be sent to you after registration. If you have questions about the tool list, please contact us.
- Ball peen and riveting hammers
- Steel block or anvil surface
- Rawhide mallet
- Flexshaft
- Round nose, chain nose, flat nose, half round/flat and nylon jaw pliers
- Calipers, dividers, and steel ruler
- Pencil and ultra fine point sharpie
- Flush cutters
- Bench pin
- Saw frame and blades
- Drill bits
- Needle files and mini needle files
- Scriber
- Coarse snap on sanding discs and mandrel
- Cross cut cone burs
- Diamond burs
- Heavy metal cutting shears
- 220 or 240 grit sandpaper
- Optivisor or similar magnification
- N95 and Safety glasses
- Center punch
- Tracing paper
- Card stock
- Rubber cement
- Note: If you wish to work only in silver for this class, you will need to puchase the additional metal listed under optional in your materials list.
A computer, phone or tablet to use the free Zoom app for class
Read what students have to say about our online classes on the testimonials page.
Prerequisites:
This is an intermediate level class. Students should have good comfort level with soldering, and fabrication skills- sawing, filing, drilling, use of flexshaft.
Instructor:
If a class is online, or is a combination online and in-person session, all students receive a link to a recording of the class demonstrations. In-person only workshops are not recorded. For staff instructor classes, students have access to the recordings for one year. For guest instructors, access is 30 days.
If a kit is included with the class, online students will have them mailed to them. Kits for in-person students are delivered at the beginning of the first class. More information about the kit is included with the supplies list which is emailed after registration.
International students may be charged an additional amount for shipping, because of the increased cost to ship abroad. Also, shipments to other countries may incur a tariff payable by the student. International students are welcome to contact us re: these costs and options for their materials. Please be sure that the address with your payment is the correct one for shipping.
If there is an in person section for this class, in person students each have a bench and a complete set of tools to use, including torches, flex shaft, and more.
If this class is offered online, it uses the Zoom app/website. Through Zoom, you’ll be able to see demos and follow instructions, ask questions and interact with your instructor. Zoom is easy to use and free for students to use for class, and works on most devices, like phones (iPhone, Android, etc), tablets (iPads, etc), and computers (Mac or PC).
Your instructor is also available during free Zoom office hours for questions and help.
For classes that include work time, online students work at home or in their studio. All of our recommended tools and the kit materials are chosen to be home studio friendly. Links to preferred vendors are provided in the supplies list sent after registration. Some classes, like our short demo only classes, don't require tools or materials to attend.
And now the fine print. Payment in full for class fees is due at the time of registration to reserve your place. Our online registration system accepts credit cards and other methods. Checks and cash are accepted only if you register at school. If you mail a check, your registration is not processed until it clears and the class may fill during the wait.
If the workshop is canceled by our school for any reason, all class fees will be refunded, or you can transfer to another class, or you can keep a credit on account with us for future classes or purchases,
Students can cancel, receive a credit or refund, or transfer to another class up to 21 days before a workshop, whether it is online or in person. No cancellations are accepted after the 21-day deadline, however, we will do what we can to try and sell your place to a qualified student. If we can sell your place, you can receive a refund less a $50 cancellation fee, keep a credit on account with us, or apply your fees towards a transfer to another class.
If you can’t make it to class, you may send a participant who has the necessary prerequisites in your place. Please call or email us immediately with any changes in the student participant information. If a class includes an online section, your class will be recorded and you can watch later to make up a class you miss.
Students must be at least 15 years old to attend a class, and students under 18 must have a legal guardian sign our liability waiver form. We have had younger students attend classes, on a case by case basis. If you’re interested in enrolling your child, please call or email us.
If you sign up for a class and fail to have the required prerequisites as listed in the class description, you are still subject to the 21-day cancellation policy, listed above.
Lodging and meals are not included for in person classes.
If you don't come to class, there are no refunds, credits or transfers.