Join me at Penland School of Craft for Iron - Fall Short Session in Penland, NC September 22-27, 2024

Using paper as a design and problem-solving tool, students will learn to translate the natural world into forged steel. We will start by gathering botanical objects that carry aesthetic intrigue. Then we will make paper patterns inspired by these gatherings and use various tools to cut sheet, thin plate, and angle iron and create leaves, petals, stems, etc. We will cover the transition from a flat plane to volumetric form through folding, creasing, and rolling metal while it is in a malleable state. Forging techniques and different hammer styles will create surface texture. I will also demonstrate a variety of finishing techniques that use color. Students will return home with samples, patterns to work with in their own studios, and a finished piece.