Learn the high-end technique of Castle Setting, which is a timeless setting style that is crown-like, giving your jewellery a refined and intricate look adding elegance to your designs. Scott will guide you step-by-step through the process, from mapping out where your stones will sit, to skilfully cutting those delicate little claws. 

This workshops is ideal for Jewellery designers and makers looking to understand more about this setting technique, as well as basic setting principles, to go on to develop and adapt to your signature design style.

What will I make?

You will use a cast blank to create your own castle setting after watching Scott’s step-by-step tutorials.

What will happen on the day?

You will be guided through the process of castle setting, including the full description of all tools involved and how to prepare them properly before beginning. Scott will take you through each process, from the mapping and measuring out of where to sit the stones, before drilling, burring and seating them skilfully and accurately. Then begins the fun part of cutting away materials to leave behind those lovely little claws! Once you’re ready, then you’ll be taught how to set and finish the whole piece.

What skills do I need?

Intermediate For those who already have some prior knowledge on the subject or have relevant skills.

What should I bring?

- Pen and Paper

- Reading glasses (if you need them!) 

What should I wear?

Clothes: Casual and not too precious as they may get a bit dusty or damaged.  Avoid long, loose fitting sleeves and anything that might catch or get caught whilst you are working.

Shoes: Casual flat shoes and no open toed sandals in case you drop a hammer or something hot on them!

Hair: Tie long hair back.

Who is my instructor?

Scott McIntyre is the founder and Creative Director of Vanilla Ink CIC, and a Master Goldsmith and Setter. He is responsible for commissions and class content, leading the creative policies, and shaping how the company looks and sounds. With nearly 30 years of experience in the industry, there isn’t much Scott doesn’t know!

His jewellery journey began early, embarking on an apprenticeship when he was just sixteen in one of Glasgow's top workshops. In his career, he has picked up an extensive set of skills, learning from a variety of other jewellers while creating and finely tuning his own techniques.

After years of plying his trade across Scotland’s Central Belt, he found his calling as a naturally gifted tutor. Scott has a wonderful ability to connect with his students, making sure everyone feels at ease and ensuring that each student leaves his sessions with a far greater knowledge of jewellery making. His abilities, patience and tolerance are famous, as is his love of a life-enhancing playlist. In recent years, his book ‘Stone Setting’ was published. How fancy.

Diagnosed as autistic as an adult, Scott has always been open and honest about his mental health and aims to use his own experiences to help others who are struggling or have had similar issues in the past.

How do I get there?

See contact page for details on public transport and parking.