Repoussé and Chasing Basics

Repoussé and chasing are ancient techniques that uses the natural qualities of non-ferrous metals to create beautiful art and utilitarian objects. Repoussé is the process of creating a raised design from the backside of a piece of malleable metal, while chasing is the opposite process of refining the design by pushing the metal from the front. Relatively simple, usually handmade tools are used to push and form cold metal into forms that are not possible using any other technique. In this starter class we will be using lightweight hammers and small chisels to work 4-inch copper tiles in a pitch bowl. The selection of projects is up to you; we'll have an assortment of patterns and forms to chose from or you can bring your own ideas and sketches.

When you start class you'll be assigned a toolbox with everything you need to start chasing copper. Please provide your own hearing protection (ear plugs) and safety glasses and wear clothing appropriate for a shop environment. | $195 ($150 tuition + $45 materials)

Instructor: Brad Buxton has spent many years guiding students in making a wide range of workshop projects, including woodworking, boatbuilding, metalworking, and blacksmithing. He recently spent two years in the Middle East teaching boatbuilding. Temperatures there made blacksmithing and other hot metal projects unworkable so he added another craft to his list: repoussé and chasing copper and bronze.