HOOK.CATCH.SNAP. |
JEWELRY MECHANISMS

Class Description

Taught by Naama Levit

Many types of jewelry incorporate movement, achieved through handcrafted mechanisms utilizing locking, snap, and hook closures. Though often subtle, these mechanisms require a high level of craftsmanship, enhancing both the functionality and overall design of a piece. 

In this class, participants will explore techniques for creating various hinging mechanisms, adding sophistication to their jewelry. The first part of the class will introduce the topic through technical demonstrations and hands-on sample-making exercises, focusing on classic hinge constructions—a riveted hinge and a one-knuckle sheet connection—before advancing to more complex applications. 

Various wire rod techniques will also be explored, including forging and milling, to build foundational skills for the next stage of the course. 

The class will then transition to the first project: crafting a heavy gauge rod  into a bracelet with a carved hinge and a hook-locking clasp. This project will emphasize precision work, guiding participants through the process of fabricating interlocking components and using different types of carving burs. 

For the second and final project, participants will design and fabricate a jewelry piece of their choice—either earrings or a bracelet—incorporating one or more mechanisms. Emphasis will be placed on refining the creative process, encouraging participants to experiment with their designs, developing ideas through model-making, and planning their mechanisms thoughtfully for cohesive and functional results. 

This is an intermediate level class. Jewelry fabrication skills, such as soldering and torchwork, are required. Our Welcome to Jewelry and Welcome to Jewelry 2 offer this foundation.

Class size 4 – 12 students.

All students enrolled in this course have access to the studio during open studio hours, at a discounted hourly student rate or a 12 hour bench card. In addition, full-time students have access to free open studio hours on Fridays and Saturdays during their course. Studio access will extend for two weeks after the spring class cycle ends.

Refunds & Credit

Please email us at info@bkmetalworks.com to withdraw from class. Withdrawals from class more than 7 days prior to the start of the class will receive a full refund for the class minus a 10% processing fee. If cancellation occurs 3-6 days prior to the class, we will provide a 50% refund. Cancellations 48 hours or less receive a 25% refund. Refunds will not be provided for no-shows or same-day cancellations.

We do not refund tuition for classes that students miss due to their own circumstances. There will be no refunds once the class begins in any circumstance, nor can we transfer you to a later semester. Students enrolled in multi-session studio courses (excluding workshops and intensives) may make-up missed class sessions during open studio hours for up to two weeks after the last class meeting.

We reserve the right to cancel or discontinue any class, in which case you may choose to receive a refund, apply the class credit towards a different course, or receive a tuition credit for future use. Tuition credits are valid for up to one year. Refunds will be issued within 30 days.