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LMF Class Videos

24/03/03 - 03/24 Introduction to Practical Chasing with Jeff de Boer (4 sessions) - VIDEO ONLY

24/03/03 - 03/24 Introduction to Practical Chasing with Jeff de Boer (4 sessions) - VIDEO ONLY

$232.00 USD
$232.00 USD
Sale Sold out

Sundays, March 3, 10, 17, 24, 2024 
(4 days, 2 hours per session) 
12:00 - 2:00 pm PST  

Instructor: Jeff de Boer

Chasing is a metalsmithing technique in which a sheet of malleable metal is hammered on the front side, pushing the metal back to create detail and forms using a series of simple punches and hammers. Repoussé is a similar technique in which the metal is shaped by hammering from the back side to create a design in low relief. The two techniques are often used in conjunction to create exquisite depth and details. Several metals can be used for chasing and repoussé work, including gold, silver, copper, and brass. 

These techniques have been extensively used all over the world, requiring only the simplest tools and materials. Since there is no loss or waste of metal, which mostly retains its original size and thickness, it makes this process fairly economical.

In this hands-on class, Jeff will introduce students to the tools and techniques required to produce quick, chased components for jewelry or decorative elements. Each class will end with an exercise assignment for the students to practice and review the following week.

As a bonus jump-start for your tool-making journey, students will be given access to the previously recorded video of Jeff's lecture in which he demonstrates how to make his "Stradivarius" liner tool. Access will be given one week before the start of the class. Jeff recommends that you make this tool before embarking on this class.

This is the first of two classes that Jeff is offering. The second one is 04/14 - 05/05 Exploring Volumes Through Fabrication and Repoussé with Jeff de Boer. Buy both classes for a 15% discount.

Note: You will need good ventilation for smoke and fumes, if you are not able to burn pitch residue off outdoors.

Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate

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.

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. Students in the Rio for Schools program enjoy wholesale benefits for six months (instructor code = RFSLMF). 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.

Jeff will cover tools in this first class. If you want to go far with these techniques, you will eventually need everything on this list.

Recommended Materials:

  • 24g or 26g sheet metal in brass or copper - approx. 6" x 6" to get started
  • 3’ length of both 1/4” and 3/16” drill rod, it can be either oil or water hardening
  • Emery paper, 220, 320, 400, 600
Recommended Tools:
  • Jeff will demonstrate how to make and modify chasing tools. If you have a basic set of chasing tools, that's great.
  • Dapping punches
  • 6” chasing bowl with pitch, Jeff recommends black pitch.
  • Medium-weight chasing hammer
  • 6” x 6” steel bench block 
  • Dividers
  • Sinking hammer 
  • Rawhide or nylon mallet
  • Round stakes of various sizes/radii (optional)
  • Vise
  • Hack saw
  • Magnifying glasses
  • Access to a laser printer/scanner that can enlarge and reduce
  • Plasticine clay and tools for modeling
  • Good quality tracing paper
  • Drawing supplies including fine permanent markers, red and black
  • Masking tape
  • Fabric iron
  • 3/8" hardwood dowel
  • A small piece of thin leather for wrapping tools
  • Access to a belt sander or bench grinder
  • Polishing machine

Basic Tools you should have at your bench:

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