Ceramic shell casting for bronze, silver and aluminium

25/7/11-29/7/11

 Teacher: David Reid

The courses will cover all aspects of his innovative methods, from specialist wax-working, through ceramic shell moulding, molten metal preparation and pouring, to the finishing and patina of a piece. Even a demonstration of melting metal in a microwave oven.

 No previous experience in casting is required and students will be encouraged to make wax forms on site.

 Instruction on a course is such that, if wished, it would be possible for one to set up one's own foundry for the casting of personal work, using low cost equipment. However this is not the only thing to be gained from participation. Many people have used the courses, simply to understand the process, gaining experience in manipulating wax as a medium and in the finishing of bronze for presentation, leaving the founding to others. Either way, the courses have led many people towards working and exhibiting in bronze.

The programme will be:

Monday: Introduction to wax, and wax-working (making stuff)

Tuesday: Running and spruing, begin ceramic moulds

Wednesday: Further mould building, silicone and rubber moulding

Thursday: Dewax, burnout and metal pouring

Friday: Fettling, chasing and patina

At this point, each participant should have a hand-sized piece in bronze or other metal, theirs to keep. All materials (except silver) are covered in the course fee.

Places will be restricted to 10 students, and can be reserved.