Metalwork Class: Introduction to Fold Forming

Designed for jewellers, silversmiths and contemporary metalworkers, this practical course teaches you how to transform flat sheet metal into expressive three-dimensional forms.Fold forming is a highly efficient and sculptural metal forming process that allows dramatic volume and movement to emerge from a simple sheet of metal. By understanding how metal reacts to pressure, heat and folding along an indented line, you can create lightweight yet dynamic forms suitable for jewellery, vessels and sculptural work.Through structured demonstrations and guided studio practice, you will gain confidence in shaping copper sheet using controlled curved scoring and folding techniques.This workshop introduces various curved scoring approaches, enabling you to expand your metal-forming skills and introduce new surface and structural possibilities into your practice.What You Will LearnDuring this hands-on metal forming course, you will:Understand the principles of fold forming in copper sheetLearn how curved score folding techniques influence direction and movementDevelop knowledge of work hardening and annealingGain confidence using hammers and a rolling mill to create a curved line to fold alongPractise manipulating sheet metal into graceful and dynamic formsCreate a collection of technical samples and experimental formsYour tutor:Jenny Deans Jenny Deans is an award-winning designer and educator specialising in metalwork and jewellery. With decades of experience teaching creative and technical processes, she is known for making complex techniques accessible and for encouraging confident experimentation. Her work combines technical precision with expressive form, and she brings both clarity and enthusiasm to the workshop environment.Student Feedback“All the techniques had their own appeal and I could see how they could integrate into my jewellery journey.”Course InfoSun 20 September: 11 am – 4 pmPlease factor in some buffer time after 4 pm in case your project takes a little longer.Central Scotland School of Jewellery, Craft Central, High Street, DunblanePlease note that classes may be cancelled if there are insufficient bookings. In the unlikely event of a cancellation, you will be notified the day before the scheduled class and will receive a full refund. What to expect/bring:We’ll provide all the copper you will need for your course.An old pair of thin leather driving gloves or fitted gardening gloves could be useful, but not necessaryPlease bring along glasses and/or a visor if you need themWear appropriate clothing for a studio environment, including closed-toe shoes. Why not order yourself a CSSJ apron to make you feel right at home in your workshop?Tea, coffee and biscuits are provided. While we do not have a dedicated lunch area, you are welcome to eat at your desk, and we can also recommend nearby places to eat if you prefer. Read more details