Member Studio

Master the Art of Metal

Learn jewelry making, soldering, enameling, and more in our metals studio. Professional artists will guide you through each intricate step of the process.

Browse metals classes below to learn more and sign up!

Click the button below to view all class offerings

View all class offerings

Alternative Stone Settings

Metals Class
Level: Intermediate
Duration
3 Weeks
Tuition
$175
Member Tuition
$150
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Explore creative approaches to jewelry design in this course focused on unconventional and imaginative stone-setting techniques. Designed for metalsmiths who enjoy creating unique, non-traditional pieces, this class encourages students to experiment with ways to showcase stones, found objects, and personal treasures through innovative settings. Students will learn techniques for embellishing bezels, adding prongs, securely capturing stones and other materials without adhesives, creating custom settings from scratch, and combining multiple setting methods to meet the needs of individual projects. Through guided instruction and hands-on exploration, students will expand their technical skills while developing a more personal and inventive approach to metalsmithing.

Sessions

Cast a Flask

Metals Workshop
Level: Intermediate
Duration
2 Days
Tuition
$175
Member Tuition
$150
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Each student will prepare, sprue, and cast one flask using the lost-wax casting process. Students should bring fully carved wax models or suitable natural objects ready for casting to the first class. Instruction focuses on professional spruing techniques, investing, burnout, and centrifugal casting while reinforcing best practices throughout the casting process. This workshop is ideal for students who want to strengthen their casting skills and complete personal casting projects with instructor guidance. Prerequisite: Students must have successfully completed Casting 1 at Craft Alliance or have equivalent lost-wax casting experience with instructor approval.

Sessions

Casting 1

Metals Class
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
6 Weeks
Tuition
$340
Member Tuition
$295
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Discover the fundamentals of metal casting using centrifugal casting in this introductory course. Learn to create molds with the lost-wax (investment) process and safely pour molten metal into a spinning mold to produce detailed jewelry and small objects. You’ll explore wax carving, spruing, mold making, centrifugal casting techniques, and finishing processes. This hands-on class builds essential skills and confidence in the casting studio. Ideal for beginners or metalsmiths looking to expand their skill set.

Sessions

    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 11/1/2026
    End: 12/6/2026
    Time
    Sunday
    9am - Noon
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open

Casting 2

Metals Class
Level: Intermediate
Duration
6 Weeks
Tuition
$340
Member Tuition
$295
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Casting 2 is designed for intermediate to advanced students who want to build on the skills learned in Casting 1 while expanding their understanding of centrifugal casting techniques. Through hands-on projects, students will refine their casting process and learn the fundamentals of mold making, enabling them to create reusable molds and produce multiple wax models for casting. Instruction covers advanced casting methods, mold-making techniques, wax duplication, and strategies for producing consistent, high-quality cast pieces. Basic tools, selected metals, and essential supplies are provided. Prerequisite: Casting 1 Maximum class size: 6 students

Sessions

    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 9/10/2026
    End: 10/15/2026
    Time
    Thursday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Kelly Draper
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 8/27/2026
    End: 10/8/2026
    Time
    Thursday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Kelly Draper
    Status
    Open

Connected Stacker Rings

Metals Workshop
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
1 Day
Tuition
$145
Member Tuition
$125
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Create a unique connected stacking ring—or three interlocking rings that come together as one wearable design—in this hands-on metalsmithing workshop. These stylish rings are both elegant jewelry and satisfying fidget pieces, making them as fun to wear as they are to create. Students will learn how to accurately size rings, design and fabricate in multiples, and refine their soldering techniques while constructing a seamless interlocking ring set. By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a handcrafted ring that showcases both craftsmanship and contemporary design. Level: Students should have some prior soldering experience.

Sessions

    Ages
    18+
    Dates
    Start: 12/4/2026
    End: 12/4/2026
    Time
    Friday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Sarah Walters
    Status
    Open

Enamel Decals

Metals Workshop
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
3 Weeks
Tuition
$175
Member Tuition
$150
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Bring vibrant color and imagery to your metalwork through the art of vitreous enamel. In this class, students will learn to apply enamel to copper and explore a variety of surface decoration techniques, including enamel sifting and the use of custom enamel decals. Decals can be created from black-and-white photographs, prints, or original drawings, allowing each student to incorporate personal imagery into their work. By combining these techniques, participants will create a one-of-a-kind enameled piece. No previous enameling experience is required unless otherwise noted.

Sessions

    Ages
    18+
    Dates
    Start: 11/19/2026
    End: 12/3/2026
    Time
    Thursday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Kelly Draper
    Status
    Open

Etching

Metals Workshop
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
3 Weeks
Tuition
$175
Member Tuition
$150
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Introduce texture and imagery to your metalwork through the art of etching. In this class, students will learn a variety of resist techniques, including the use of PnP paper to transfer photographic images onto metal. Once the resist is applied, the metal is submerged in a mordant bath, which etches away the exposed areas of the surface while leaving the protected image intact. These techniques allow students to create richly textured, highly detailed, and uniquely personal designs on metal. No previous etching experience is required unless otherwise noted.

Sessions

    Ages
    18+
    Dates
    Start: 10/29/2026
    End: 11/12/2026
    Time
    Thursday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Kelly Draper
    Status
    Open

Intro to Fold Forming

Metals Workshop
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
6 Weeks
Tuition
$340
Member Tuition
$295
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Discover the versatility of copper through the art of fold forming. In this introductory class, students will learn traditional metalsmithing techniques, including annealing, quenching, pickling, and hammering, to transform flat sheets of copper into dynamic three-dimensional forms. By exploring copper's remarkable plasticity, students will create sculptural shapes and wearable pieces such as earrings, pendants, brooches, cuffs, and more. Emphasizing form, movement, and personal expression, this class offers a creative introduction to one of metalsmithing's most rewarding techniques. No previous experience is required.

Sessions

    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 10/28/2026
    End: 12/2/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    10am-1pm
    Status
    Open

Metalsmithing 1

Metals Class
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
6 Weeks
Tuition
$340
Member Tuition
$295
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Step into the world of metal arts in this beginner-level course focused on foundational techniques in jewelry and small object fabrication. You’ll learn to work with non-ferrous metals like copper and brass as you develop skills in sawing, filing, texturing, forming, soldering, and finishing. Through a series of hands-on projects, you’ll gain confidence with studio tools and equipment, including the jeweler’s saw, torch, and flex shaft. Projects may include a pendant, ring, or small wearable sculpture, all designed to build your technique and creative voice. This class is ideal for beginners or those looking to refresh their metalsmithing skills in a supportive studio environment.

Sessions

    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 10/26/2026
    End: 11/30/2026
    Time
    Monday
    9:30am-12:30pm
    Instructor
    Meri Ellen Taylor
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 10/27/2026
    End: 12/1/2026
    Time
    Tuesday
    2:00pm-5:00pm
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 10/28/2026
    End: 12/2/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    6:00pm-9:00pm
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open

Metalsmithing 2

Metals Class
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
6 Weeks
Tuition
$340
Member Tuition
$295
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Take your metalsmithing skills to the next level in this intermediate course designed for students with basic experience. You’ll refine your sawing, soldering, and forming techniques while exploring more advanced processes such as bezel stone setting, hollow forms, and complex solder joins. Projects emphasize design development, craftsmanship, and creative problem-solving as you build a strong foundation for more independent work. Individual instruction supports both technical growth and personal expression.

Sessions

    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 10/28/2026
    End: 12/2/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    2-5PM
    Instructor
    Kim Stahl
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 11/1/2026
    End: 12/6/2026
    Time
    Sunday
    1-4PM
    Instructor
    Peg Fetter
    Status
    Open

Silver Recycling

Metals Workshop
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
1 Day
Tuition
$145
Member Tuition
$125
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
With silver prices at historic highs, there's never been a better time to make the most of every scrap. In this class, students will learn how to recycle and reuse the silver scraps that accumulate in their studio, helping reduce material costs and maximize efficiency. Students will explore techniques for transforming small amounts of scrap into granules and learn how to melt and process larger quantities into usable sheet or wire for future projects. No previous experience is required.

Sessions

    Ages
    18+
    Dates
    Start: 9/25/2026
    End: 9/25/2026
    Time
    Friday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Sarah Walters
    Status
    Open

Walk away with a Ring

Metals Workshop
Level: Beginner / All Levels
Duration
1 Day
Tuition
$145
Member Tuition
$125
Studio Fee
Included
More Info
Have a favorite stone that needs a setting? Want to turn an idea into a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry? Or simply looking to try something new? This beginner-friendly, three-hour workshop is the perfect introduction to metalsmithing. Learn the fundamentals of sawing, filing, forming, soldering, and finishing as you create your own sterling silver ring or pendant. Bring your own cabochon stone, or choose from a selection available in the studio. Along the way, you'll gain hands-on experience with essential metalsmithing tools and techniques while transforming raw materials into a wearable piece of art. No prior experience is necessary. By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a handcrafted sterling silver ring or pendant and the confidence to continue exploring the art of metalsmithing.

Sessions

    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 9/16/2026
    End: 9/16/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    2:30-5:30PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 9/23/2026
    End: 9/23/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    2:30-5:30PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 9/30/2026
    End: 9/30/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    2:30-5:30PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 10/7/2026
    End: 10/7/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    2:30-5:30PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 10/14/2026
    End: 10/14/2026
    Time
    Wednesday
    2:30-5:30PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 11/6/2026
    End: 11/6/2026
    Time
    Friday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 11/13/2026
    End: 11/13/2026
    Time
    Friday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 11/20/2026
    End: 11/20/2026
    Time
    Friday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open
    Ages
    16+
    Dates
    Start: 12/4/2026
    End: 12/4/2026
    Time
    Friday
    6-9PM
    Instructor
    Jessie Mees
    Status
    Open

Craft Alliance is a nonprofit art center dedicated to building community through craft.

5080 Delmar Blvd.

St. Louis, MO 63108

314.725.1177

Facebook-f Instagram Youtube Linkedin

HOURS

Office & Exhibition Gallery
Mon – Fri: 9 AM – 5 PM

Studios

Sun – Sat: 9 AM – 9 PM  (See class catalog for details)

Shop

Third Fridays, special events, and by appointment

@ Craft Alliance 2025 | All Rights Reserved