LEARN-TO Chase & Repoussé LEARN-TO Chase & Repoussé (Six-Week Focussed Workshop) [APRIL–MAY]
Start Date: Friday 23 April, 2027
End Date: Friday 28 May, 2027
Start Time: 10am
End Time: 4.30pm
Venue: FORGE (2nd site, see "How to get there" below)
This six-session workshop introduces jewellers and small-scale metalworkers to chasing and repoussé techniques, focusing on the creation of controlled, precise relief in metal. Participants will also gain experience in tool making, producing their own set of chasing tools, and applying these tools to achieve accurate, high-quality surface textures and forms.
Held each Friday for six weeks, the course develops a thorough understanding of metal movement, texture, and form, with a strong emphasis on control rather than force. Particular attention is given to hammer technique, tool angle, and strike rhythm to ensure clean, repeatable results without distortion.
Participants will progress through structured exercises, including precision line work, depth calibration, and geometric relief studies, designed to build consistency, accuracy, and confidence. We will explore a variety of chasing and repoussé methods, discuss tool-making, and develop the technical foundations needed to execute detailed, three-dimensional designs in copper, brass, and silver.
With just five participants, the workshop offers close individual guidance in a supportive, focused learning environment designed to build technical confidence. Please note materials are not included.
Every Friday | Starting Friday 23rd April | 6 weeks
Please note materials are not included.
What will I make?
During the workshop, you will produce:
- A personalised set of chasing tools.
- Precision exercise plates, including: Parallel, tapered, and intersecting line studies. Depth calibration grids with measured relief heights
- A controlled geometric relief panel focused on accuracy, clean definition, and even depth
- At least one completed chased and repoussé piece
- Optional silver samples if participants choose to supply silver
By the conclusion of the six weeks, you will have not only have gained experience in chasing and repoussé methods but also created durable, reusable tools that you can use to carry on practicing the technique at home.
What will I learn?
This workshop develops both technical understanding and practical proficiency in:
- Fabricating and tempering chasing tools tailored to specific textures and forms
- Annealing, preparing, and supporting metal for precise chasing and repoussé
- Controlling metal displacement to achieve consistent, uniform relief
- Producing a range of surface finishes and textures, including stippling, line work, and controlled patterns
- Diagnosing and resolving common technical challenges such as tearing, uneven relief, or distortion
- Material properties of copper, brass, and silver relevant to chasing and repoussé
- Selection and preparation of pitch and supporting substrates
- Tool-making procedures, including steel selection, shaping, and hardening
- Designing and producing relief-based jewellery and decorative objects
- Integrating chasing and repoussé with other technical processes, including engraving, soldering, and metal assembly
What will happen during the workshop?
Each session combines structured, step-by-step demonstrations with guided practice. Participants will begin by producing and testing their own chasing tools, before progressing to increasingly complex exercises in texture and relief.
Individual guidance is provided throughout, allowing participants to refine their methods, troubleshoot technical challenges, and develop a workflow suited to their own practice.
The environment is focused and professional, supporting precision, careful technique, and technical confidence. The small group size ensures detailed, tailored instruction for each participant.
What skills do I need?
Intermediate & Advanced: For those who have foundation knowledge and experience of jewellery making. Ideal for makers looking to up skill and advance their practice.
If you are unsure if you have the correct level of experience, feel free to email us for advice.
What should I bring?
- Reading glasses (if you need them!)
- Notebook and pen (to take notes)
- Apron to protect clothes
- Basic hand tools from your own tool kit as advised by your teacher.
- This workshop does not include materials although the teacher will supply copper and brass. You will need to buy your own silver if you would like to make samples in silver, your teacher will be able to advise.
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 tool or something hot on them!
Hair: Tie long hair back.
Who is my teacher?
This workshop is led by Pete Musson, a specialist silversmith and highly experienced educator with over 20 years’ experience teaching Jewellery and Metal at the Royal College of Art.
Pete has lectured and delivered masterclasses internationally, including at Musashino Art University, Hanyang University, Bishopsland Educational Trust and Glasgow School of Art.
Known for his expertise in silversmithing and technical innovation, Pete combines deep practical knowledge with thoughtful mentorship, supporting jewellers to develop precision, confidence and a strong understanding of contemporary jewellery construction
How do I get there?
Please Note this workshop is in new premises two minutes from FORGE: 2nd Floor, 31 Hatton, EC1N 7TJ. When you arrive, press the buzzer and we will let you into the building, then make your way up the stairs to the 2nd floor. (There is sadly no lift).
See contact page for details on public transport and parking.
How do I book?
To book your workshop, simply add the number of spaces you'd like and click Add to Cart, then click on the basket icon in the top right corner to proceed to checkout.
Discount codes can be applied at checkout.
PLEASE PROVIDE BOTH EMAIL & PHONE NUMBER
Please remember to provide your email address and phone number. We use this information only to confirm your booking, share details about the day, and contact you if any issues arise. Your contact details will not be used for marketing purposes unless you choose to opt in by ticking the box to receive updates from us.
Materials Disclaimer
Please note: Workshop material costs are based on metal prices at the time of organising each session. Due to continual fluctuations in precious metal markets, there may be a small increase in the price of materials. If this occurs, we will contact you prior to the workshop to confirm the difference, which can be settled on the day by card
£960.00