MINIMALIST EARRINGS: A WORKSHOP

Earrings have been worn and made by anyone and everyone, from every continent and country, from every layer of social standing for more than 4,000 years. In this time, a mixture of techniques have been discovered, experimented with and used to create these fascinating little works of art. Throughout our time together, we’ll be condensing a few millennia of processes into one evening.

Within the three hours that you spend with Emily at The Colour Factory, you’ll be equipped with all the tools and knowledge to introduce you to a wealth of possibility in the form of two simple pairs of studs. You’ll be shown technical processes for cutting and shaping and introduced to texturing and finishing. Emily will show you different ways of approaching a technique, and encouraging you to consider options and thinking bigger. You will leave the session with two finished pairs of earrings, twinkly eyes and a big smile.

While it may sound quite fast paced, it’s surprisingly soothing. Being at one with materials and hand tools, watching the transformation of metal into a finished object, and despite the quantity of information that you’re exposed to, it’s designed to be delivered in micro-chunks so that you’re not overwhelmed.

How much does it cost?

Prices start at £90 per person for a workshop using silver; please request prices for a workshop using 9ct yellow gold. Capacity is up to 4 people. If you’d like to book as a group, the session will be reserved just for you. If you’re booking for a single place, there may be other individuals (up to 3-4) who attend the same session.

Who’s teaching me?

All of the techniques used in this workshop form a good basis of knowledge for jewellery making; these are all processes that Emily has been using for over 6 years. Emily graduated from UCA in 2019 with a BA in Jewellery; she is also a member of the Association of Contemporary Jewellery, Design Nation and Society of Designer Craftsmen. Emily’s work has been featured in a number of exhibitions, from London to Monmouth, Munich to Beijing.

FAQs

Can I have a different metal to silver?

You can indeed! Using base metals, such as copper and brass for earrings, is not a good idea. Due to their makeup, they often irritate ears, therefore, we won’t be using those. However, for an additional cost, you can use 9ct yellow gold instead.

Do I need any experience?

You don't need any prior jewellery or creative experience. Everyone is welcome but this workshop is designed for absolute beginners, and folks who have taken part in other jewellery/creative experiences.

I don’t live in the area but the experience appeals to me! What can you suggest?

I recommend you come and stay! Winchester is a wonderful place with a great many aspects to explore. There is an excellent array of things to do and see, along with places to stay and eat. It has creativity, history and a delightful community of small business that will welcome you in with open arms! If you’d like some good recommendations, do get in touch. Alternatively, you can visit The Winchester Blogger, Miss Winchester or Winchester Magazine for ideas!

Do I get to take the earrings home on the day?

Absolutely! It shouldn’t take any longer than the allotted time to complete all three!

When is the workshop?

The workshops typically take place on Wednesday afternoons or evenings. If these timings don’t work for you, please get in touch and we can discuss some more options. Please note that I’m unable to offer any Saturday options for the time being.

What will I need?

All of the materials will be supplied for you, as will all the tools (and a few refreshments!). All that you need to bring is yourselves and some clothes that aren’t too fancy. We won’t be getting caked in muck, but this workshop can be a bit grubby and the finishing processes at the end can get a bit messy! We will be using a touch of fire so make sure to bring something to tie back long hair and don’t wear anything too draped/loose.

Where do I go?

This workshop will take place in a lovely little communal studio a few streets over from the High Street in Winchester, Hampshire. We have a newly finished, dedicated jewellery space with everything that one might need from a bench space, to bench peg, from a rolling mill to a polishing motor!

Could I get a voucher?

You can indeed! Click here to be taken straight to the listing.

How long does it take?

No longer than three hours! You’ll be able to make and take home all three pieces in this time. Please don’t use this as a reason to rush though; I’m currently working on an option to revisit the workshop to practise skills that you’ve already accumulated, and finish anything that needs finishing.

I don’t consider myself artistic/creative.

That’s okay, even if you can’t remember doing anything creative since school! This workshop can be an opportunity to explore a little creativity, but if you’re not confident in making creative decisions, don’t worry - the majority of this workshop is made up of a series of technical processes so I will be guiding you through every step!

Why might I do a Minimalist Earring Workshop?

For many reasons! You could make a gift for a loved one, or two; you could gift the experience itself (whether you just gift the one spot or book an extra space for you too!). It’s an opportunity to make yourself something new and one-of-a-kind. A chance to learn a new skill. To bond with friends or family. A little creative respite from a busy career.