All classes include the video recording, which you will have access to for 30 days after the class. Zoom link and instructions for joining the call will be emailed 1 day (24 hours) prior to class.
The class supply list is below and contains links to buy the supplies you need.
The cuttlefish bone (or cuttlebone) has been used since ancient times as a mold for casting. It continues to be a popular mold material for creating distinctive textures in jewelry. The focus of this class will be 3-part cuttlebone molds to create rings with stone settings graced with unbroken cuttlefish pattern and no solder seams. A variety of unique stone settings in cuttlebone will be demonstrated.
Students are encouraged to bring a variety of stones, cuttlebones, and scrap silver to create some cool rings!
Supply List for Students
The links below will take you to RioGrande.com or other suppliers. To see prices for precious metal items, you need a free Rio Grande account. Registered Little Metal Foxes students can access Rio Grande wholesale pricing for significant savings. This site may contain Amazon and other affiliate links. If you purchase something through the link, at no cost to you, we may receive a small commission on qualifying purchases.
Materials for Cuttlebone casting:
Cuttlebones: These can be purchased from pet shops, bird suppliers, and some jewelry suppliers. I get my medium to large bones from Great Companions online. We recommend having 3-6 cuttlebones on hand to choose from.
Metal: Scrap sterling silver from your studio or buy an ounce of sterling casting grain
Stones: Cabochons and/or faceted stones between 3-30mm
Pencil
Elmer's Glue
Scrap copper or brass sheet, 1/4"x2" strips of 20-24ga
From your local hardware store:
Thin iron binding wire (20-24g,)
Dust Mask
Coarse sandpaper or 80 grit drywall sanding screen
Sand, pumice rocks, solder bricks, or clay kitty litter to hold cuttlebones propped up securely while casting
Carving tools like an X-acto knife or dental tools
Borax (20 Mule Team is available from the grocery store on the laundry detergent aisle.)
