The Art of Mokume Gane
Featured Fine Art
This tsuba is inspired by of one of the most well-known mokume gane tsubas in history - the Yoshino River Tsuba made by Takahashi Okitsugu in the mid-late Edo period in Japan. I used different metals (copper, brass and nickel silver), and a silhouette of my own design; five-lobed rather than 8-lobed. It took me about two years to create, and is just a first draft. Next one will be made with silver, shakudo and shibuichi. From my very first billets, I always wanted to create crisp, unique mokume patterns with great control. This was different from a lot of the fairly random, all-over stuff I was seeing. It was in Masaki Takahashi's "Textbook of Mokume Gane" book that I was first introduced to the historical work of Takahashi Okitsugu - I saw it was possible to create such patterns, so I had a goal. Read more.
Featured workshops
Fuse, Forge, & Roll - In-person - Sold Out!
June 5-7, 2026
Tuition $550 + kit fee $80 payable in class
Boulder Metalsmithing Association, Boulder CO
Mokume Gane is an ancient Japanese metalworking technique in which layers of metal are fused together using time, heat, and pressure (no solder). All aspects of the billet-making process will be covered in this class, from billet design, proper cleaning and prep, to what temperatures and soak times to use for what metals, etc. We’ll be using the precise solid-state diffusion bonding method, and hot-forging our billets. After rolling the billets down to sheet and/or rod they will be ready to pattern. This workshop is a great follow on for those who have taken any of Anne’s online mokume gane patterning classes, but it is also open to those new to mokume gane. Participants can expect to create mokume gane billets and patterned samples, to be turned into finished work in their own studio or the next class. Detailed handouts including step-by-steps and equipment sources will be provided. Experience annealing and soldering silver is recommended.Kit fee covers consumables, billet materials except optional silver, and use of torque plates. Use of silver optional, bring a 3" x 3" of 20 gauge fine or sterling silver. Students also have the option to purchase a stainless steel torque plate set for $160. Class is full but you can join the Waitlist at BoulderMetalsmiths.com.
Mokume Essentials: From Fusing to Patinas in just 5 days - In Person - Sold Out!
August 3-7, 2026
Tuition $890, kit fee $180 payable to instructor in class
Danaca Design, Seattle Washington
I love teaching here; it is my favorite studio and the one I return to most often, partly because of the great coffee and restaurants within a 2-minute walk, and actual usable public transportation. But more importantly it's friendly and well-equipped, and there is an 8 student maximum so there is plenty of space to spread out and time to ask me questions.
Mokume Gane is an ancient Japanese metalworking technique in which layers of non-ferrous metals are fused together using time, heat, and pressure (no solder). All aspects of this complex technique will be covered in just 5 days, from fusing to patterning to patinas. On day 1 we’ll stack and fuse billets using the precise solid-state diffusion bonding method. Day 2 we’ll forge and roll the billets down to workable material. Days 3 and 4 will be an enticing smorgasbord of patterning techniques, including the cherry-blossom pattern. Finally on day 5 we'll cover mokume-specific soldering and finishing techniques, and we’ll end with some knock-your-socks off patina recipes. You’ll leave with detailed handouts to practice and repeat the processes, an equipment list to fuse your own mokume at home, fused mokume, patterned mokume, and maybe even a finished jewelry piece or two. If you would like to join the Waiting List contact Dana at DanacaDesign.com.
Free Resources and Events
San Diego Jewelry Lab Online Sawing Circle & Hammer Yammer
Hammer Yammer: Once a month, every 1st Tuesday 5:30-7pm Pacific.
Sawing Circle: Once a month, every 3rd Tuesday 5:30-7pm Pacific.
Where: Online via Zoom - Cost: FREE
Sponsored by Anneville Studio and Mondo Bop Metal Arts Gifts & Gear
Our online gatherings are a bit like a book club but instead of reading, we work on cool stuff, help each other with problems, share ideas and provide accountability for ongoing work. If you've been looking for support for moving forward on your projects then this is for you. Join us from your studio to work in the good conversation and company of like-minded friends. Totally free, no need to RSVP, simply make yourself a snack, settle at your bench and click the button to join in. Explore our Padlet and other resources at SanDiegoJewelryLab.com.
I don't attend all the time, but when I am there, I'm happy to answer any mokume or other metals question, general or specific. Even if I'm not there, you'll still have fun, I promise!
In the middle of teaching a four day mokume gane short course at truly magical West Dean College. Working hard but taking time to soak in the atmosphere too. Great bunch of students working hard too! Tomorrow, rolling out the billets. Wish us luck!