WARNING: participating in a silversmithing class at Fivefold will exponentially increase your appreciation for all things handmade.

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I already held a well established love for handmade, bespoke and individually tailored things, however this class brought that passion home for me. Seeing the effort, care and attention to detail that goes into the creation of these pieces makes them even more valuable.

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I love all things creative and learning. The last I did anything with metals was probably back in high school – am pretty sure I made some clumsy BBQ tools that my Dad bravely tried to use (once) and then were relegated to display objects only. Having recently burnt myself quite badly in a millinery accident (separate story) I was a tad nervous to be working with flames and hot metals, but the team at Fivefold assured me we would be safe and OHS procedures were well in place; despite a typical searing hot day we were in long pants and enclosed shoes, and to work we donned our leather aprons.

The classes are held right in the studio behind the Fivefold shop, so you can pretend to be a true Silversmith for the day. I arrived a little early and spent the time lusting after all the beautiful pieces in the shop. The store originally held products from five local artists and has now grown to include works from artist all over Australia.

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Ingrid, one of the original five, who is also a school teacher, was our teacher for the day and provided fantastic instruction. The class ran at a steady pace, all instructions were clear and she demonstrates each step for you before you attempt it yourself, and is happy to check how you are progressing: “Is this sanded enough?” “A bit more.” “How about now?” “A bit more.” Luckily sanding is quite meditative.

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But I am getting ahead of myself. The class I took was to create a silver ring, but we were greedy and made two each instead! The start involves measurements and calculations – don’t worry if you hate maths, you are stepped through this process and the result is that you will have a ring that fits you perfectly! The next step involves some sanding and flames, and then you have the beginnings of your ring. Let’s put it nicely…it’s not that pretty at this stage, but have faith! It will get there…Next some banging and hammering and VOILA! A wonky looking jellybean thingo becaomes a ring!

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Next comes the sanding…and more sanding…and then some more. I forget exactly how many grades of sandpaper we went through (five?) but this is where you are investing in the quality of your finished ring. And then you polish – and now it is really exciting – it’s a ring! And it’s shiny! And it fits me! Huzzah!

The hardest part is the DESIGNING! Once your ring is formed you can texturise it, and choosing between the different effects was probably the longest step of the day…this is why it is good to make two if you feel up for it! I ended up leaving one plain and hammering in a dented effect on the other. I love the textured band the most – a ring I made for myself, designed to my requirements – it is really quite special.

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While we were conducting the class, several customers booked in and one class was booked out in one go, so I can attest that they are very popular (don’t delay if you’re thinking this is something that interests you).

The day was topped off with lunch and drinks from Sweet Bones Bakery Cafe which was just delicious. I highly recommend the rice paper rolls if they have them on special, and their iced espresso gave my brain the jolt to keep concentrating through the afternoon!

So, if you’re looking for a creative way to spend a Saturday, why not get some friends together and get along to Fivefold?

the essentials

What: Fivefold Studio
Where: 27 Lonsdale Street, Braddon (inside the Lonsdale Street Traders)
When: Keep an eye on the website for future workshop dates.
Web: www.fivefoldstudio.com.au