Skill Builder – Make a Bezel Set Gemstone Ring – Saturday Morning – CRAFT MONTH

August Craft Month shines a spotlight on Ireland’s thriving craft scene and provides unique opportunities for people to make, see, learn about, and buy craft. Whether you’re curious to learn, eager to create, or looking to discover something handmade and meaningful, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Skill Builders are in-depth, hands-on courses and sessions designed for those ready to dive deeper into a specific craft discipline.  Whether you’re developing your skills for personal practice or working toward becoming a Benchspace Maker, these courses and sessions focus on building confidence, technique, and creative independence through guided, project-based learning.

Set in Stone
This class is perfect for complete beginners and a great Skill Stacker session for those with some jewellery-making experience who want to build a strong foundation in bezel setting techniques.

Bezel Settings surround the center of a gemstone using a continuous band of metal and hold it in place with a projecting lip.  The lip overlaps the edges of the stone leaving the crown of a bezel-set gem exposed.  Developing bezel setting skills allows makers to securely set a wide range of stones, adding professional finish and greater creative possibilities to their work.

Join tutor Fabio for a focused 5-hour workshop where you’ll learn the essential skills needed to create a cabochon gemstone ring in sterling silver.  You’ll begin by choosing your favourite from our selection of stones – such as chrysocolla, rutilated quartz, carnelian, labradorite, tiger’s eye, moonstone, or larimar.
Guided step-by-step, you’ll shape and solder your ring band, form and fit your bezel setting, and master the process of securely setting your stone.  Along the way, Fabio will share expert tips, tricks, and best practices to help you develop precision, confidence, and good technique – giving you skills you can build on for future projects.
By the end of the class, you’ll finish with a beautifully handcrafted sterling silver ring that shows off your new bezel setting skills.

Who can Join:  This is a Beginner-Level class delivering focus specific skills, suitable for Adults 18+ of all skill levels.  Good hand-eye coordination and the ability to follow safety instructions are essential.

What’s Included:

• • All tools and materials
  • Step-by-step instruction on safe equipment use
  • Individual support and feedback
  • Your completed piece to take home

What you’ll Learn:

• • How to measure and cut
  • Use a piercing saw
  • Prepare a bezel
  • Bezel-set a stone
  • Ring soldering
  • Soldering
  • Anneal silver and use a pickle bath
  • Sand, finish, and polish your piece

Where to Go:  This class is held in our BS1.5 workshop located at Eircode T12 KRH7.

Please read our terms and conditions here before booking.  Any questions? Email hello@benchspacecork.ie

Curious about What’s Next?  If you think jewellery-making is for you then perhaps you’re ready for our Design + Make I course.  Not ready for a full course yet?  Try another of our popular single-session Bites classes – with plenty to explore in woodturning, jewellery, woodwork, and more.  Visit our website for our full schedule, or subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on new releases.

What to Wear:  Avoid wearing loose clothing and jewellery and don’t forget to tie back long hair.  Closed toe shoes are required on all of our workshop floors.  If you need glasses for close up work, don’t forget to bring them.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):  PPE will be provided for all courses that require it.  It must be worn as directed.  All specialist equipment and materials will be provided.

Want to give the Gift of Creativity?  Gift Vouchers can be used for all our classes and courses. Visit here to purchase.