Metal and Glass Alchemy - The Magic of Enameling

Express your creativity by building a unique champleve and cloisonne enameled silver jewelry item. Starting with a line drawing sketch of your choosing, learn to saw out 2 layers of metal that will be fused together to form a framework for the cloisonne wirework. The wires are shaped to fit the design, then transparent glass enamels are wet-packed into each area of the design and fired in the kiln to fuse. This intricate process yields luminous transparent colors that allow the silver base to shine through. Explore optional texturing, silver, and gold foils to enhance your creation. The enameled objects are meticulously smoothed and polished, resulting in a personalized pendant, brooch, or personal amulet.

Debra Carus is a metalsmith and jeweler in Clackamas, Oregon. Her passion is creating storied art jewelry that reflects her love of nature and her Norwegian roots. Debra is a full-time studio artist and metals instructor, teaching students of all skill levels throughout the northwest.

Sketch pad or paper

Set of colored pencils

Fine Sharpie marker or Micron pen

Eye magnification, if needed - for close up detail work

Set of metal needle files

Sheet of 400 grit sandpaper

All studio tools, including kilns and enameling hand tools

Metal - fine silver sheet, wire and cloisonne wire, plus some jewelry findings

Metal working tools for sawing, forming, texturing and finishing