Summer

Jewelry Intensive

14-17*

Designed to introduce students to metalworking and jewelry design, this program emphasizes developing comfort with fundamental metalworking techniques and cultivating a thoughtful approach to design.

*This is a Teen program and will follow those guidelines outlined in our FAQ section.

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Overview

Join us this summer for two creative weeks of discovery in the world of metalwork. Students of all levels receive personalized instruction, blending design theory with fabrication techniques to inspire the creation of jewelry and small-scale sculptural objects.

You’ll learn essential skills such as sawing, filing, soldering, stamping, riveting, texturing, polishing, gemstone setting, and assembly—working with copper, brass, and silver while building a strong foundation in metalsmithing. These techniques, often used in jewelry making and small metal fabrication, also serve as an introduction to larger sculptural practices. In addition to jewelry, you’ll have the chance to create functional objects like containers, with the option to bring inspiration images or examples of jewelry you’d like to make.

Guided by professionals in the contemporary jewelry community, you’ll receive not only technical training but also insight into studio practice and real-world applications. By the end of the program, you’ll have a collection of finished pieces that reflect your individual vision, culminating in a final exhibition where you can showcase your work for family and friends.

A lab fee covers the use of all tools, equipment, and materials, including brass, copper, sterling silver, gemstones, solder, sandpaper, acetylene gas, polishing compounds, and more.

*The final culmination is Friday evening, with Saturday being a move-out day.

Additional Information

Jewelry Intensive does not require any type of assessment or portfolio to get into the program. Instructors will work with you at the level that you are. You will improve and learn new skills, whether you are a beginner or have been making jewelry for years.

Closed toe shoes for navigating dirt and gravel pathways
Studio clothing
Old clothing or an apron to use during class time
Hair tie to keep long hair back

We begin by introducing jewelry design and exploring the work of different artists. On the first day, students learn basic techniques through the process of constructing a ring. In the following days, the focus shifts to design: students develop their own project ideas and spend time bringing them to life. Throughout the week, instructors provide demonstrations of additional techniques and steps that support the completion of each student’s individual project.

Fernanda Gaspar is an emerging craftsperson. She was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and now resides in San Diego, California where she enjoys that it is so close to its bordertown, Tijuana. Gaspar received her Bachelors degree from San Diego State University in Business Administration alongside a minor in Jewelry & Metalwork. She is very passionate about community, often employed by organizations that care for the people and care of the cultivation and sharing of craft. She was the Pocosin Arts Metals Artist in Residence for 2024-2025. Currently, she is producing art in San Diego, teaching at the San Diego Jewelry Academy, Grossmont community college and the San Diego community college system. She also coordinates the Adults Summer Metals session at Idyllwild Arts.

Check out our Kids & Teens FAQ’s to learn more about our summer programs

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