Forging is one of the most fundamental of the silversmithing skills. It involves using a hammer and anvil to move metal effectively by compressing or stretching into contrasting thick and thin sections with graceful fluid lines.
This two day workshop will guide you through a series of step by step demonstrations and exercises using copper, taking you from basic forging techniques to more advanced skills. Over the course of the two days you will be introduced to a wide range of the forged forms that can be used on a jewellery scale.
This course is open to both DCCI members and members of the public.
Course Overview
- Date: 10th and 11th April 2026
- Duration: Two days; 10am – 5:30pm
- Last day to apply: 2nd April 2026
- Venue: DCCIA School of Jewellery, Sessions House, Thomastown, Co Kilkenny, R95 X9Y6
- Number of participants: 7
- Fee: €365.74
Why Attend
- On Completion of this introductory short course you will be able to progress to additional introductory short courses in silversmithing skills to build up a portfolio of knowledge and to perfect your ability to work with the tools and materials.
- Additional silversmithing courses by Seamus Gill and other silversmiths (such as master repousse artist Aiden Breen) will be part of the Sessions House Jewellery and Goldsmithing Centre of Excellence training programme.
Learning Outcomes
- Forging, flattening a wire, making wedge shape, stretching, drawing a taper, twisting and forging sheet metal.
- On completion of this two day course learners will gain knowledge and experience of:
- Work in a professional silversmithing workshop
- Gain practical knowledge and skills in forming metal
- Learn from a highly respected master silversmith with over four decades of experience
- Expand your skill vocabulary to incorporate new techniques and potential for designs
- Connect with other enthusiasts and professionals in a friendly and collaborative environment.
Who Should Attend
- The workshop caters for those with basic metalworking skills up to professionals who want to learn more about forming metal. Tools and materials will be provided.
Day one: Introduction to the basic principals of forging and practice of the basic techniques. Flattening a wire, making wedge shape, stretching, drawing a taper, twisting and forging sheet metal.
Day two: Incorporating the techniques practiced in the first day to make some finished pieces, a bangle, earrings and forging a spoon.
Know Your Instructor
Séamus Gill is an award winning Irish silversmith who uses traditional silversmithing skills to design and create elegant jewellery, silverware and sculpture. His unique designs evolve from his high level of skill and a deep understanding of the working qualities of silver. He has work in many public and private collections worldwide including the National Museum of Ireland and the Vatican Rome.
In this course, he will share his expertise through a series of practical masterclasses. He is very passionate about sharing the skills of silversmithing and these workshops are perfect for anyone who wants to develop silversmithing skills to incorporate into their own practice.
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