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:

March 21 & 28, 2021
Intermediate Chasing and Repoussé /
Die Forming for Repetitive Repoussé and Unique Chased Textures
Pocosin Arts School of Fine Crafts
www.pocosinarts.org

Virtual Two-day Demonstration Workshop via Zoom
(Click on Zoom workshops – Metals/Jewelry and scroll down to find class)
4:00 – 6:00 pm ET
Class Fee: $125

Die forming for chasing and repoussé is the process of pressing or hammering metal into a cut-out design in a hard, resistant material. The result is a puffed-out shape that can be repeated many times. The die is then flipped over, filled with pitch, and chased from the other side for making uniquely textured and designed hollow forms, multiples and mirror image designs. The main die material we will be using is a non-toxic PVC that is easy to cut and can be hammered without cracking. Using a hydraulic press and acrylic dies will also be covered. There will be a lot of instruction in chasing the resulting die-hammered forms, including making finished pieces.

Prerequisites: Students should have some experience with basic chasing and repoussé to get the most out of this online class.