Wax Carving One Day Course

Gain a broad understanding of carving wax for casting silver jewellery.


Liz Taylor
Liz Taylor
5.0 (13)

6 hours Class size 1 to 8 guests       £100 (PayPal Pay in 3 available)
Cambridge Activities
Wax carving is a captivating and highly creative technique at the heart of jewellery making. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to sculpt jeweller’s wax into detailed three‑dimensional designs, with the option to add gemstones for cast‑in‑place settings. You can choose to make a ring, a pendant or a brooch, and there is time to work on more than one design if you wish.
You’ll cover the essential principles of wax carving and the lost‑wax casting process, working with different types of wax, specialist carving tools, heating equipment and safe working methods. Techniques include subtractive carving, adding detail, texturing, refining forms and troubleshooting common challenges. You’ll also learn how to prepare your wax for casting and how to achieve clean, polished surfaces ready for the next stage.
You’ll be guided step‑by‑step by Liz, with plenty of opportunities to personalise your design and explore your own creative ideas. A full range of high‑quality tools is provided, giving you the chance to work with professional‑grade equipment, though you’re welcome to bring your own if you prefer.
The workshop takes place in Liz’s garden studio, where she teaches in small groups to ensure plenty of individual support. Liz brings over 20 years of professional teaching experience, along with specialist diplomas in Fine Jewellery Making and Advanced Jewellery Making from the London Jewellery School. With advanced jewellery training and decades of teaching experience, Liz breaks down complex techniques so they feel accessible, logical and genuinely enjoyable to learn. Her workshops are structured, supportive and packed with practical guidance, offering clear step‑by‑step teaching and personalised troubleshooting.
What you'll get
The course fee includes all wax and consumables. Metal and casting costs are not included, but Liz will advise on the most cost‑effective casting options. Typical casting costs range from £15–£40 per item. For those who prefer a professional finish, Liz also offers an optional service to clean up, polish and complete your cast piece so it’s ready to wear for a small additional cost.
Knowledge required
No prior experience with wax or silver is needed. Some manual dexterity is helpful, but most individual needs can be accommodated. Participants are encouraged to get in touch to discuss any specific requirements. Please note that the learning studio is not currently wheelchair accessible. Children aged 11 and over are welcome but must be accompanied by a paying adult.
What to bring
  • You may wish to bring a pen and notebook. I do provide handouts for some of the projects, but a pen and notebook might be handy.
  • You may also wish to bring an apron.
  • If you suffer from any respiratory conditions, you might like to bring a dust mask.
  • You can also purchase more silver to make extra pieces, so please bring cash to pay directly to your tutor.
  • Tools and consumables will be provided, but if you have any, feel free to bring your own.
Location

Pampisford

Exact location is masked for privacy. You'll automatically get the specific address after booking.

Wax Carving One Day Course location
Verified reviews


Our reviewers receive the same incentives regardless of the ratings or comments provided


This class doesn't have reviews yet, but here's what guests say about this teacher's other experiences:

ClassBento loader icon
Your teacher

Liz Taylor
Liz Taylor

5.0 (13)

I am the owner of The Silver Bird, an artisan, handmade jewellery business based in a semi-rural village in Cambridgeshire. I am a member of the Guild of Jewellery Designers, have a Diploma in Fine Jewellery making, and am currently completing a Diploma in Advance Jewellery making with the London Jewellery School. I specialise in bespoke commissions and customisable pieces, as well as teaching traditional jewellery making techniques.
I retired from an 18 year career as a secondary DT teacher, over which time I taught hundreds of young people how to design and make novel, beautiful products, by exploring material properties and generating unique forms.
During this time, I completed a Masters of Education at Cambridge University, focusing on creative idea generation and development. This gave me a particular passion for biomimicry; using and replicating the nature through product design to make unique textures and forms.
I have taught adult silver jewellery making classes in several schools, and have set up my own teaching school in Pampisford, Cambridge.
Jewellery making with silver is easily the most addictive thing I have ever done. And that's before we talk about the enchanting world of gemstones! Whether you are into contemporary or classic pieces, you are learning for pleasure, or you want your own career change, I can help you fall in love with the processes and achieve your jewellery-making potential.
Contact me for an informal chat if you'd like more information of what I can offer. I look forward to making with you.

Gift this artisan class

With our gift card, they can book this class at a time that suits them.

They can also choose from our 15,000+ other classes.

redeem Gifting options

Book on ClassBento and enjoy exclusive perks:


  • Earn loyalty points
  • Money-back guarantee* for peace of mind
  • Local support from our UK-based team, rated 5 stars by customers
  • Public liability insurance included for your protection
  • ClassBento donates 50p to Mental Health UK with every paid booking
class 1E57MXLBSX b30fa37a8c654059964d2a78c24cea95 production cambridge Cambridge East of England GB cambridge