Hi all, I want to explore the jewelry space but don’t know where to start. Are there classes or jewelers I can assist and learn from that would be willing to let me shadow in studio? Or know of studios locally I can contact. I am interested in casting/wax, metal working, gemstones, 3D modeling, etc. Thank you!
Hi Bridget, it’s great that you’re exploring the jewelry space! It sounds like you have a broad range of interests, and the Dallas Makerspace (DMS) is an excellent place to tap into them.
If you haven’t already, I highly recommend signing up for a membership. DMS has all the resources you’d need to make jewelry and so much more, and our members have expertise in all the areas you mentioned. You can check the Events Calendar for beginner-level classes, and the Jewelry Committee meets on the second Tuesday of each month. I’d encourage you to attend some meetings and take any classes you can to hone in on your key areas of interest.
While a formal apprenticeship can be tough to find, schools like the Jewelry Institute in Paris, TX, or New Approach in Franklin, TN, offer more efficient training if you’re looking to build occupational-level skills. It really just depends on your goals.
We’d love to have you as a member of both DMS and our committee. We have a wide range of jewelry-making resources and are always excited to meet new members!