Unleash Your Inner Artist with Metal Clay Jewelry Classes

Join me for hands-on jewelry workshops in the Santa Cruz Mountains. We’ll work primarily with silver and bronze metal clay to create one-of-a-kind pendants and earrings, while learning foundational techniques you can build on.

Metal clay is the heart of what I teach, and I also offer select classes in wire wrapping and other jewelry techniques. Every class is approachable, relaxed, and rooted in thoughtful making.

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What Is Metal Clay?

Metal clay is pure alchemy. It starts as a soft, moldable clay made from tiny metal particles. You can sculpt it, carve it, and press in textures to create your design.

Once fired in a kiln, the clay transforms into solid metal.

What begins as clay becomes a lasting piece of wearable art, shaped by your hands and imagination.

Come Make a Day Trip!

I teach at the Santa Cruz Mountains Art Center in Ben Lomond, California, about 10 miles (a 15-minute drive) from Santa Cruz.

Address:
9341 Mill Street
Ben Lomond, CA 95005

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A Day Just for You.

This is more than a class. It’s an intentional afternoon set aside for you. Time to slow down, reconnect with your creative side, and make something lasting with your hands.

Come as you are. No experience needed.

UPCOMING CLASSES

Saturday, January 17, 1 PM - 5 PM
Metal Clay Silver Charm Earrings

Join me, Rae Rodriguez, for a beginner-friendly class where you’ll create your own pair of silver charm earrings using precious metal clay. This is a lovely way to make a thoughtful gift or treat yourself to something special.

You’ll learn how to shape, texture, and design your earrings, then fire them in the kiln. Once fired, your earrings become durable fine silver pieces, ready to wear or gift.

All materials, including silver clay and ear wires, are included.

Saturday 1/24/26, 1 PM - 5:30 PM
Natures Impressions: Pendant with Leaves

 

Transform nature’s beauty into wearable art. In this class, you’ll create a mold from a leaf or small natural object, then use metal clay to craft it into a unique pendant.

Bring small natural objects with lots of texture, such as leaves or seeds, or choose from vintage buttons provided. Some organic materials will also be available.

Materials for clay and molds are included.

Saturday 1/31/26, 1 PM - 3:0 PM
Wire Wrapped Earrings Workshop

Unleash your inner jewelry designer in this hands-on wire wrapping workshop. You’ll learn a variety of techniques to create earrings that reflect your personal style.

This class is perfect for beginners and those with some experience. I’ll guide you step by step as we explore materials, dangles, chain, charms, and beads.

If you’d like, bring your own charms. Otherwise, I’ll provide a curated selection of beads and findings.

All materials and tools are included.

Saturday 2/28/26, 1 PM - 5:30 PM
Natures Impressions: Pendant with Leaves

In this repeat offering, you’ll again explore how to capture natural textures in metal clay while creating a pendant inspired by leaves or small organic forms.

Each piece is unique, and the process is both grounding and creative. Materials for clay and molds are included.

Saturday 3/28/26, 1 PM - 6:00 PM
Silver Metal Clay Pendants: Mastering Hidden & Top Bails

This class is designed for makers who want to deepen their metal clay skills. You’ll explore two essential pendant-making techniques: the hidden bail and the top bail.

We’ll focus on how bail design affects both the look and wearability of a necklace. Confident beginners are welcome, especially those comfortable working with fine details.

You’ll leave with a finished silver pendant necklace in just five hours.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER THROUGH THE ART CENTER

 
PRIVATE CLASSES:

I also offer private metal clay classes in my studio located in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Boulder Creek, California.

If you’re interested in a private lesson or small group workshop, feel free to reach out for more information.

Contact Me