Nancy Mēgan Corwin teaches traditional and non-traditional chasing and repoussé classes which include the most common approach such as using pine resin pitch as a base for punching sheet metal up from the back (repoussé) and for chasing (detailing and texturing the front surface); and the non-traditional approach of using dies for repetitive forms and outlines.

Beginning, Intermediate and Advanced class descriptions:

1. Chasing and Repoussé — A Modern Approach with a Traditional Base: A beginning class in which students start out learning to use the tools and equipment, such as the pitch bowl and chasing hammer, for chasing and repoussé, while experimenting with the effects of these tools on sheet copper. The traditional approach of lining the front of the metal and punching out from the back is next. Finally the students learn texturing and refining techniques. Making a tool is included in three-day or longer classes only. Beginning classes are process oriented. Resulting pieces are considered samples. Mēgan brings lots of her own samples, finished pieces, and a selection of tools for students to use during class. Recommended textbook: “Chasing and Repoussé: Techniques Ancient and Modern” by Nancy Mēgan Corwin, published by Brynmorgen Press, which can be purchased through Amazon.com and through many jewelry tools and equipment supply companies.

2. Using Dies for Multiples: In this intermediate class the student uses pre-made dies for forming the metal (useful in making multiples in a series or pairs of earrings, etc.); and dies for simple lining.

3. Chasing and Repoussé in Silver: This is an intermediate/advanced class in which the student works exclusively in silver. Students are excepted to bring design ideas to the first class.

4. Gold Keum-boo on Chased and Repoussé Silver Jewelry: One week course only—learn how to apply 24k gold foil using the keum-boo technique to chased and repoussé irregular surfaces. Follow a step-by-step process of making one or two chased and repousse jewelry items in silver, then apply the gold sheet for contrast. The emphasis is on resolving the technical challenge of applying the gold onto a variety of textures and forms. Students will leave with one or two pieces of jewelry and a basic understanding of how the process works including how to problem-solve in your own studio.

Mēgan will be teaching the following confirmed classes:

January 17-19, 2020
Die Forming and Chasing for Multiples and Hollow Forms
Danaca Design Studios
5619 University Way
Seattle, WA 98105

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Class Fee: $460
Die forming is an exciting and simple way to make three-dimensional multiple forms that can be representational or abstract, with intricate surface texture and great modeling. In this workshop students will learn to use the hydraulic press and non-toxic PVC hand-hammered dies to create the raised parts. Then, using pitch as a support, add surface textures and more three-dimensional forms for a unique, entirely your own, design. You will come away with a couple of dies and lots of die-formed pieces for future work. Copper will be the material of choice for samples, but those with prior experience in chasing and repoussé should feel free to work in silver or brass. This class is process-oriented and students will come away with several samples. It is possible to make elements for finished pieces as well. Some materials included, $10 materials fee payable to instructor cash or check.

Prerequisites: Some familiarity with basic metal techniques.
Materials included: Sheet copper for producing samples, use of studio tools including pitch bowls
Students must bring: $10 materials fee payable to instructor in cash or check

Students may bring:
• Personal pitch pot and tools
• Additional sheet metal, 22 gauge recommended

February 27–March 2, 2020
Chasing and Repoussé at Pocosin School for Fine Craft
201 Main Street, PO Box 690
Columbia, NC 27925
info@pocosinarts.org
www.pocosinarts.org

9:00 am – 5:00 pm daily, open studio hours on select days
Class Fee: $600

This workshop will introduce students to the exciting and long established processes of chasing and repoussé. The term repoussé refers to forming sheet metal from the backside to create raised areas on the front side in low to high relief. Chasing refers to adding texture and detail to the front. Students will learn traditional (working the metal in pitch – a pine resin based material) and non-traditional methods (die forming) as well as how to make chasing tools. This is a process and skills oriented class, with the focus on samples. However, many students turn some of their samples into finished earrings and pendants as well.

Prerequisites: Some Experience Necessary
Fee includes: tuition + materials fee + studio fee. Students may be asked to bring some additional items.
Lunch included on the first and last day of the workshop

March 14-15, 2020
Chasing and Repoussé: Working with Sterling Silver
at BARN (Bainbridge Artisan Resource Network)
Bainbridge Island, WA (Seattle area)

10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Class code: JE031420MC
Guest Price: $490 (6”x6” 22 gauge sheet sterling silver included in price)
Member Discount Price: $388 (6”x6” 22 gauge sterling silver sheet included in price)

Students should have previous experience in chasing and repoussé or have taken a beginning class.The focus of this two-day course is on working in sterling silver. There are special considerations when chasing and forming silver that will be addressed in detail. We will use pitch as a support, and learn to reduce the potential for firescale, while creating wonderfully textured and formed samples.

Prerequisites: This is an intermediate level class. Previous Chasing and Repoussé is recommended.
Details: $50 materials fee is included in the class tuition. This includes a  6” x 6” piece of sterling silver sheet in 22g. Extra sterling silver will be available for purchase. Please bring cash or check made out to BARN.
Please bring a bag lunch. BARN has a refrigerator and a microwave, located on the lower level.

May 1-3, 2020
Chasing and Repoussé: Great Techniques for Form and Texture
Flux Metal Arts 
8827 Mentor Ave., Suite A
Mentor, Ohio 44060

Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Class Fee: $735 ($698.25 if you register by March 1)

This three-day beginning workshop will introduce students to the exciting processes of chasing and repoussé. The term repoussé refers to forming sheet metal from the backside with rounded steel, brass, and plastic punches to create raised areas on the front side. Chasing refers to detailing and texturing the front side of the metal. These techniques are steeped in tradition, yet contemporary as well. They are a vital part of the jeweler/ metalsmith’s skill set for making exciting textures and creating great form in sheet metal. The emphasis for this course is on making samples and developing skill. Students will also make one or more tools during the class to keep. Those with prior experience may request more advanced projects, or choose to work in silver. There is a required student supply list for this workshop. Megan will bring tools for you to use during class, and you will have access to the tools at the studio. Hand-made chasing tools by Bill Dawson are also available for purchase from Megan during the workshop (cash or check only).

Details: Materials Fee of $5 covers steel for tools. Materials fee paid to instructor in cash or check. This class is limited to eight students. Basic metalworking skills are helpful (ages 18 and up).