DIY Jesmonite Craft Workshop

Welcome to The Riversop’s Jesmonite course, designed for those eager to explore the world of DIY Jesmonite crafts. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced maker, this hands-on course provides an in-depth look at how to create unique, eco-friendly pieces using this versatile material. Jesmonite has become a favourite among crafters due to its durability, ease of use, and wide range of applications.What is Jesmonite?Jesmonite is a water-based, eco-friendly composite material, blending gypsum with acrylic resin. Its strength and versatility make it ideal for creating both homeware and larger works. In this course, you will learn how to use Jesmonite to create anything from custom coasters to side tables, tapping into its potential for both artistic expression and functional design.What you’ll learnOur Jesmonite course at The Rivershop covers everything from material preparation to advanced finishing techniques. Here's what you can expect:

• Start with the basics—what Jesmonite is, how it compares to other casting materials, and why it’s favoured for DIY Jesmonite crafts. We'll explore its environmental benefits and its growing popularity as an eco-friendly casting material.
• Learn the essentials of preparing Jesmonite. You will get hands-on experience mixing the correct ratios of liquid to powder and adding pigments for custom colours. We’ll also demonstrate how to create textures and effects, a core skill for anyone working with DIY Jesmonite crafts.
• One of the most exciting aspects of working with Jesmonite is its adaptability to different shapes and sizes. We cover basic mould-making techniques using silicone and recycled materials, essential for DIY Jesmonite crafts.
• You’ll learn to cast Jesmonite into moulds and practise layering techniques to create marbled effects. Understanding how to cast effectively is especially useful for those looking to create intricate designs like planters, trays, and even small sculptures.
• After casting, we focus on finishing your pieces with techniques like sanding, sealing, and polishing to give your work a professional touch. Sealing is especially important for eco-friendly casting materials like Jesmonite, as it enhances durability and protects the finish.

Whether you're interested in making home decor items like coasters and trays or more ambitious projects, this course gives you the tools and confidence to take your DIY Jesmonite crafts to the next level.The Rivershop is known for fostering creativity and innovation. Our Jesmonite course stands out because it’s accessible, comprehensive, and designed for all skill levels. Whether you want to start a small business, experiment with eco-friendly casting materials, or simply create beautiful items for your home, our course equips you with the skills you need. Plus, the versatility of Jesmonite allows you to explore different artistic avenues.Ready to unleash your creativity with DIY Jesmonite crafts? Sign up for The Rivershop’s Jesmonite course and start crafting with one of the most innovative and eco-friendly casting materials available today. Whether you're making home decor or exploring larger projects, Jesmonite opens up a world of possibilities.Please Note: This workshop includes the creation of your terrazzo tray in-person, but the final sanding and sealing will be completed at home.During the workshop, your instructor will guide you through the entire process, including an overview of sanding and sealing techniques. This ensures you feel confident about completing the final steps at home.To make the finishing process easy, you’ll receive a Finishing Kit in the post, which includes:Waterproof sandpaper (various grits)Coconut oil (for sealing)Small cloth (for application)Step-by-step instructions for sanding and sealingThe final steps involve sanding the tray to reveal the terrazzo chips and sealing it for a polished, durable finish. Our instructions provide clear, easy-to-follow guidance on how to complete this step at home.If you have any questions after the workshop, feel free to reach out—we're happy to assist!Notes:

• Attire: Aprons will be provided; however, we recommend wearing old clothes and closed shoes.
• Parking: Free onsite parking is available. Drive up to the gates, and the security attendant will assist your entry.
• Public Transport: If using public transportation, the nearest train stations are Woolwich Dockyard (10 min walk), Woolwich Arsenal (bus: 5 mins - 161, 177, 180, 472 to Warspite Road), and North Greenwich (bus: 15 mins - 472 or 161 to Yateley Street).
• Timeliness: Entry to classes is not permitted 15 minutes after the listed start time. This policy ensures an uninterrupted lesson for all participants.
• Class Duration: Classes may exceed the stated time. Please allocate additional time after the class, as we prioritize a comprehensive learning experience and avoid rushing students.

All materials and tools are provided. Read more details