Fusing & Chiseling: February Workshops Recap

February 15-17, 2023, Fuse Forge Roll
Couldn't have asked for a nicer bunch of students for this fusing class, the first in my re-designed studio. I love students who have come to learn, and understand that learning and producing finished work are different things - sometimes both happen, but actually the learning is the most important. These guys were ready with so many questions, from phase diagrams to shibuichi alloys, studiously taking notes and filling out their billet worksheets. And of course there was plenty of scrubbing, fusing, squishing, forging and rolling. We all enjoyed the first night meet & greet at the Market, then a fun dinner at Mitch's Seafood - secret local hangout!

February 19-12, 2023 - Go Big: Larger Scale Mokume Gane Chisel Patterning
This was the first time I've taught this class, and it was a blast.  We started off with a 2x1 sample just to get our chisels warmed up, then dived into 3"-4" square 3mm blanks. So much happy tapping ensued! I watched and assisted as four very different designs took shape. Then the next day everyone opted to try their hands at making their own chisel, not easy! But they did great.
What fun to teach on a larger scale, to serious students wanting to create larger objects and refine their skills. Oh, and have some fun along the way! It'll take me a while to recover from all the bread, tacos, margaritas, donuts, etc. It was a joy to share my studio with y'all - hope to see you again sometime!