"Make it at Meltdown" Repoussé Concho Earrings
Learn how to make your very own pair of sterling silver repoussé stamped earrings adorned with turquoise in this hands-on class.
What is repousse anyway?
re·pous·sé
/rəˌpo͞oˈsā/
(of metalwork) hammered into relief from the reverse side.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own earrings, in your own style, so they are perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: repoussé stamping, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
"Make it at Meltdown" Botanical Amulet
am·u·let
/ˈamyələt/
noun
a small object worn to ward off evil or harm or to bring good fortune; protecting charm.
Join us as we turn our most precious botanical//organic keepsakes into beautiful pendants to treasure. The contents of these amulets add to their beauty. Colors, textures, scents all create a cherished and personalized piece and are a special way to carry a memory or a moment of relaxing aromatherapy…
Techniques we’ll cover: texturing, stamping, bezel-making, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, glass, organic specimens such as flower petals, leaves, essential oils, herbs, or anything else that is beautiful and meaningful to you… ((Bring your amulet contents with you, and we’ll have more available to choose from. Or create your amulet during class to fill later. The removable top design allows for changing the contents of your amulet whenever you’d like!))
*** You will fabricate one Botanical Amulet to treasure or share with a loved one.
No previous jewelry making experience required to fully enjoy this class.
Technique Focus: Introduction to TUFA CastinG
Tufa stone is a compressed volcanic ash material that is soft, lending itself to intricate carving. Its porous surface leaves a unique texture once the metal has been poured and has cooled. Tufa casting is an exciting process involving many steps.
Join us for a day of tufa carving, metal pouring, and finishing work. You’ll learn about tufa stone, what makes some stone better for carving, where it can be found, and what tools to use for your carving.
***Tools provided, please bring your own scrap silver to melt down.
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
Weekend Intensive: Beginning Small Metals
Have you ever wanted to learn how to make your own jewelry? If so, this class is for you.
For students with little or no previous jewelry experience, this class teaches the basics of jewelry-making including techniques such as piercing, soldering, texture and surface manipulation, stone setting, finishing work and fabrication of findings.
Through small projects, students will learn to incorporate these skills into designs which they create. Students will leave class with several completed projects.
"Make it at Meltdown" Repoussé Concho Earrings
Learn how to make your very own pair of sterling silver repoussé stamped earrings adorned with turquoise in this hands-on class.
What is repousse anyway?
re·pous·sé
/rəˌpo͞oˈsā/
(of metalwork) hammered into relief from the reverse side.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own earrings, in your own style, so they are perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: repoussé stamping, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
"Make it at Meltdown" Stamped Cuff Bracelet
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver stamped cuff bracelet , adorned with genuine gemstones. No previous jewelry-making experience is required to create this stylish bracelet, all levels welcome and encouraged to join the fun.
This class is the perfect way to share a fun experience with friends, family, or simply to do something special for yourself! You will leave this class with one cuff bracelet designed and made by YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: texturing, stamping, bezel-making, soldering, stone-setting, oxidizing, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine gemstones ((turquoise, freshwater pearl, labradorite))
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
Introduction to Lapidary
Have you ever wanted to cut your own cabochons? Our expert lapidary instructor Jim Hill will guide you through all the steps to making beautiful cabochons. In addition, he will discuss selection of materials, studio safety, mineral properties, and equipment maintenance so you are fully equipped to start cutting stones. Learn the following with plenty of demonstrations and hands-on practice:
1) Cutting Soft Stones
2) Cutting Medium stones
3) Cutting Hard Stones
4) Cutting Turquoise
*All materials are provided and you’ll take home several completed cabochons.
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
"Make it at Meltdown" Desert Gemstone Band
This beautiful band features the sandy texture of the desert paired with a subtle sparkle set in gold.
Learn how to make your very own reticulated sterling silver and genuine gemstone ring band featuring a 14k gold fill setting.
Make your own ring, in your own size, so it’s perfect for YOU. Choose from a selection of beautiful faceted gemstones.
Techniques we’ll cover: reticulation, soldering, tube setting, oxidizing, polishing, stone setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, 14k gold fill, genuine faceted gemstones
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
"Make it at Meltdown" Interlocking Infinity Ring
The Interlocking Infinity Ring is a stylish AND comfortable ring that boasts both elegance and simplicity. The individual bands are all connected, and slide down your finger overlapping to create a fun ((and different)) design each time you wear it.
This class is the perfect way to enjoy a fun outing with friends, family, or simply to do something special for yourself! You will leave this class with a sterling silver band designed and made by YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: forming, soldering, oxidation, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, brass, copper
No previous jewelry making experience required.
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
"Make it at Meltdown" Earth Day Earrings
Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. Let’s celebrate together!
Join us as we encapsulate some of our favorite botanical specimens into gorgeous modern shield earrings.
Techniques we’ll cover: texturing, stamping, bezel-making, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, glass, organic specimens such as flower petals, leaves, snakeskin, herbs, or ANYthing else that is beautiful and meaningful to you…
*** No previous jewelry making experience required. You will fabricate with ONE pair of Earth Day Earrings to treasure or share with a loved one.
Introduction to Lapidary
Have you ever wanted to cut your own cabochons? Our expert lapidary instructor Jim Hill will guide you through all the steps to making beautiful cabochons. In addition, he will discuss selection of materials, studio safety, mineral properties, and equipment maintenance so you are fully equipped to start cutting stones. Learn the following with plenty of demonstrations and hands-on practice:
1) Cutting Soft Stones
2) Cutting Medium stones
3) Cutting Hard Stones
4) Cutting Turquoise
*All materials are provided and you’ll take home several completed cabochons.
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
Technique Focus: Introduction to Tufa Casting
Tufa stone is a compressed volcanic ash material that is soft, lending itself to intricate carving. Its porous surface leaves a unique texture once the metal has been poured and has cooled. Tufa casting is an exciting process involving many steps.
Join us for a day of tufa carving, metal pouring, and finishing work. You’ll learn about tufa stone, what makes some stone better for carving, where it can be found, and what tools to use for your carving.
***Tools provided, please bring your own scrap silver to melt down.
"Make it at Meltdown" Azure Ingot Necklace
Have you ever wondered what to do with your leftover scrap silver?
Here’s an idea:
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and genuine turquoise adjustable linked ingot necklace in this hands-on class. Azure hues of turquoise make this the perfect accessory for the start of spring.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own necklace, in your own style, so it’s perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: making backplates, bezel-making, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
"Make it at Meltdown" Multi-stone Cuff Bracelet
Gorgeous earth tones, everyday allure, this bracelet has it all. ((not to mention its comfort and durability + STACK-ability))
Join us as we take you through each step to create your very own multi-stone cuff bracelet in sterling silver. Choose from a beautiful selection of stones and personalize your cuff for size and style. Best part? No previous jewelry-making experience required.
Techniques we’ll cover: soldering, bezel-setting, forming, oxidizing, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, natural cabochons ((wild horse jasper and turquoise pictured here))
"Make it at Meltdown" Multi-stone Cuff Bracelet
Gorgeous earth tones, everyday allure, this bracelet has it all. ((not to mention its comfort and durability + STACK-ability))
Join us as we take you through each step to create your very own multi-stone cuff bracelet in sterling silver. Choose from a beautiful selection of stones and personalize your cuff for size and style. Best part? No previous jewelry-making experience required.
Techniques we’ll cover: soldering, bezel-setting, forming, oxidizing, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, natural cabochons ((wild horse jasper and turquoise pictured here))
"Make it at Meltdown" Stamped Feather Earrings
Learn how to make your very own stamped feather sterling silver and genuine turquoise earrings.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own earrings, in your own style, so they’re perfect for YOU.
No previous jewelry-making experience required!
Techniques we’ll cover: stamping, soldering, oxidizing, polishing, stone setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
Introduction to Lapidary
Have you ever wanted to cut your own cabochons? Our expert lapidary instructor Jim Hill will guide you through all the steps to making beautiful cabochons. In addition, he will discuss selection of materials, studio safety, mineral properties, and equipment maintenance so you are fully equipped to start cutting stones. Learn the following with plenty of demonstrations and hands-on practice:
1) Cutting Soft Stones
2) Cutting Medium stones
3) Cutting Hard Stones
4) Cutting Turquoise
*All materials are provided and you’ll take home several completed cabochons.
"Make it at Meltdown" Azure Ingot Necklace
Have you ever wondered what to do with your leftover scrap silver?
Here’s an idea:
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and genuine turquoise adjustable linked ingot necklace in this hands-on class. Azure hues of turquoise make this the perfect accessory for the start of spring.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own necklace, in your own style, so it’s perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: making backplates, bezel-making, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
Weekend Intensive: Beginning Small Metals
Have you ever wanted to learn how to make your own jewelry? If so, this class is for you.
For students with little or no previous jewelry experience, this class teaches the basics of jewelry-making including techniques such as piercing, soldering, texture and surface manipulation, stone setting, finishing work and fabrication of findings.
Through small projects, students will learn to incorporate these skills into designs which they create. Students will leave class with several completed projects.
"Make it at Meltdown" Saguaro Statement Ring
The Saguaro is the largest cactus in the US and can grow up to 40 feet. Now that’s a statement piece!
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and genuine turquoise Saguaro statement ring and turn heads with this stunning Southwestern accessory.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own ring, in your own size, so it’s perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: stamping, texturing, bezel-making, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
"Make it at Meltdown" Linked Turquoise Bracelet
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and and genuine turquoise ((adjustable)) chain bracelet. Adorned with stamping and texture, this turquoise bracelet looks great alone or stacked!
Techniques we’ll cover: stamping//texturing, wire forming, soldering, making bezels, bezel-setting, oxidizing, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
No previous jewelry making experience required.
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
"Make it at Meltdown" Repoussé Cigar Band Ring
Learn how to make your very own fine silver repoussé stamped cigar band ring. Comfortable and eye-catching, this ring is a true conversation starter. Customize your ring with unique stamping so it’s perfect for YOU!
What is repoussé anyway?
re·pous·sé
(of metalwork) hammered into relief from the reverse side.
Make your own ring band, in your own style and size, so it is perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: repoussé stamping, forming, soldering, oxidation, polishing
No previous jewelry-making experience required!
Materials we’ll use: fine silver
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
"Make it at Meltdown" Limited Edition: Turquoise Cluster Ring
We’re excited to present this Limited Edition “Make it at Meltdown” class featuring gorgeous hues of dreamy turquoise!
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and genuine turquoise cluster ring adorned with a beautiful coral center.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own ring, in your own size, so it’s perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: bezel-making, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise, coral
"Make it at Meltdown" Paperclip Chain
They’re durable, comfortable, and are a fashion staple these days. Layer them, wear them any way you like, even hang a pendant from the convenient shepherd’s hook clasp!
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and genuine turquoise adjustable paperclip chain necklace in this hands-on class.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own necklace, in your own style, so it’s perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: forming, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
No previous jewelry making experience required.
"Make it at Meltdown" Sugar Skull Ring
Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead: the time we celebrate our dearly departed. Some adorn altars with flowers and some place the ornate sugar skull on graves to encourage the departed to come celebrate.
This very special “Make it at Meltdown” class is a sugar skull ring to wear and cherish and carry the memory of departed loved ones every day.
Create your very own unique sugar skull and adorn it with designs, flowers, and stones. This class will incorporate many techniques including stamping, soldering, stone setting, finishing work, and more.
Materials: Sterling Silver, genuine turquoise, carnelian, black onyx
"Make it at Meltdown" Petite Turquoise Inlay Ring
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and genuine turquoise inlay ring band. Perfect for stacking or as a subtle stand-alone cherished piece.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything… Make your own ring, in your own size, so it’s perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: soldering, inlay, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
+++ No previous jewelry-making experience required +++
"Make it at Meltdown" Skelly Stackers
Delightful and whimsical little skulls stack together to create this charming ring set. Each is unique, styled and created by you in sterling silver.
Create your very own eccentric skelly stacker set and adorn it with stamping and stones. This class will incorporate many techniques including stamping, soldering, stone setting, finishing work, and more.
Materials: Sterling Silver, genuine stones ((turquoise pictured here))
Masterclass: Curtis Pete - Feather Cuff Bracelet
We are honored to welcome back silversmith Curtis Pete ((@hopipete)) to Meltdown Studio to teach this full-day masterclass. Curtis’ heavy stamping and meticulous design are immediately recognizable and sought after by many collectors.
Join Curtis as he teaches each step in fabricating this beautiful feather cuff bracelet. Incorporating traditional techniques and many invaluable insights, this class offers a unique opportunity to learn from an exceptional and accomplished artist.
Techniques we’ll cover: stamping, soldering, filing, oxidizing, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver
Masterclass: Curtis Pete - Feather Cuff Bracelet
We are honored to welcome back silversmith Curtis Pete ((@hopipete)) to Meltdown Studio to teach this full-day masterclass. Curtis’ heavy stamping and meticulous design are immediately recognizable and sought after by many collectors.
Join Curtis as he teaches each step in fabricating this beautiful feather cuff bracelet. Incorporating traditional techniques and many invaluable insights, this class offers a unique opportunity to learn from an exceptional and accomplished artist.
Techniques we’ll cover: stamping, soldering, filing, oxidizing, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver
Weekend Intensive: Beginning Small Metals
Have you ever wanted to learn how to make your own jewelry? If so, this class is for you.
For students with little or no previous jewelry experience, this class teaches the basics of jewelry-making including techniques such as piercing, soldering, texture and surface manipulation, stone setting, finishing work and fabrication of findings.
Through small projects, students will learn to incorporate these skills into designs which they create. Students will leave class with several completed projects.
"Make it at Meltdown" Desert Mandala Necklace
A mandala is a symbol of the universe which is often used in meditation. The circular design symbolizes the idea that life is never ending and everything is connected. The mandala also represents the spiritual journey within the individual viewer.
This beautiful mandala is a stylish and meaningful piece that boasts both elegance and intention. Our hands-on class is the perfect way to create this piece, enjoying a fun day friends, family, or simply experiencing something special for yourself.
You will leave this class with a sterling silver mandala necklace designed and made by you.
Techniques we’ll cover: stamping, soldering, bezel-setting, oxidation, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine gemstones ((turquoise and carnelian pictured here)), genuine leather lace
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
"Make it at Meltdown" Stamped Cuff Bracelets
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and copper stamped cuff bracelet set, adorned with small stones. ((Turquoise and Black Onyx pictured here))
Techniques we’ll cover: stamping, soldering, bezel-setting, oxidizing, polishing
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, copper, genuine turquoise, black onyx, carnelian
+++ No previous jewelry-making experience required, all levels welcome +++
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
Introduction to Lapidary
Have you ever wanted to cut your own cabochons? Our expert lapidary instructor Jim Hill will guide you through all the steps to making beautiful cabochons. In addition, he will discuss selection of materials, studio safety, mineral properties, and equipment maintenance so you are fully equipped to start cutting stones. Learn the following with plenty of demonstrations and hands-on practice:
1) Cutting Soft Stones
2) Cutting Medium stones
3) Cutting Hard Stones
4) Cutting Turquoise
*All materials are provided and you’ll take home several completed cabochons.
"Make it at Meltdown" Jasper Canyon Earrings
Inspired by the rich red canyons of New Mexico, our “Make it at Meltdown” class series continues with this beautiful pair of earrings.
Both lightweight and comfortable, the stylish canyon earrings evoke a serene depth of movement.
Learn how to make these earrings step by step, and customize your pair with your choice of beautiful jasper stones.
Techniques we’ll cover: making bezels, soldering, forming, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine jasper
+++ No previous jewelry-making experience required, all levels welcome +++
"Make it at Meltdown" Wildflower Linked Concho Bracelet
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver repoussé linked concho bracelet, accented with genuine turquoise. This unique design is both comfortable and elegant.
What is repoussé anyway?
re·pous·sé
(of metalwork) hammered into relief from the reverse side.
Learn how to utilize the hydraulic press to achieve beautiful dimension in your work, a technique which is important for an array of designs.
Make your own linked bracelet, so it is perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: repoussé with hydraulic press, soldering, oxidation, polishing, bezel-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise
+++ No previous jewelry-making experience required, all levels welcome +++
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
"Make it at Meltdown" Turquoise Dual-Drop Statement Ring
Learn how to make your very own sterling silver and genuine turquoise dual-drop statement ring. Both elegant and comfortable, this unique ring style features symmetry as its main component.
Why turquoise? A true southwestern beauty, turquoise stands for water and for sky, for bountiful harvests, health and protection. Not to mention, turquoise goes with everything…
Make your own ring, in your own size, so it’s perfect for YOU.
Techniques we’ll cover: bezel-making, soldering, oxidation, polishing, stone-setting
Materials we’ll use: sterling silver, genuine turquoise, carnelian, black onyx
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
"Make it at Meltdown" Turquoise Statement Hoops
These sterling silver and turquoise hoop earrings are beautiful, comfortable, and made by YOU! Join us as we teach you all the techniques to fabricate these gorgeous hoops earrings.
We will incorporate techniques including stamping, texturing, soldering, making bezels, setting stones, finishing work, and more.
All materials provided to create one pair of hoops. No previous jewelry making experience required.
No previous jewelry making experience required.
Before registering for class, please review our cancellation policy here.
Introduction to Lapidary
Have you ever wanted to cut your own cabochons? Our expert lapidary instructor Jim Hill will guide you through all the steps to making beautiful cabochons. In addition, he will discuss selection of materials, studio safety, mineral properties, and equipment maintenance so you are fully equipped to start cutting stones. Learn the following with plenty of demonstrations and hands-on practice:
1) Cutting Soft Stones
2) Cutting Medium stones
3) Cutting Hard Stones
4) Cutting Turquoise
*All materials are provided and you’ll take home several completed cabochons.
Technique Focus: Introduction to Sand Casting
Sand Casting is a casting process where molten metal is poured into a mold made of sand. This technique is great to use because of its cost effectiveness and the availability of raw materials.
In this hands-on workshop, learn all the techniques and tricks to sand casting, from incorporating a model, to pouring your metal, so you can produce beautiful pieces with very little setup.
Sand casting is a great way to utilize scrap metal, melting down what you can no longer use, and turning it into something remarkable. And the best part: immediate results!
Students will have the opportunity to cast multiple pieces in pewter to become comfortable with the process and will also cast in sterling silver.
Our Instructor Gary Hutchinson, author of the book “Sand Casting Jewelry,” has had a 37 year teaching career in Industrial Education and continues to teach workshops throughout New Mexico and California. His passion for teaching, love of tools, and vast experience as an artist make his classes truly inspiring and illuminating.
*** No previous jewelry-making required.
Techniques we’ll cover: sand casting, finishing work
Materials we’ll use: pewter, sterling silver, various findings to complete projects