Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you have classes for beginners?
A: Jewelry 1 is designed for complete beginners or folks who’ve had past experience but need a refresher or those who just want to get to know the studio and it’s equipment. Casting, lapidary, faceting, wax working, precious metal clay, and some other classes are offered to beginners. However you’ll need to take Jewelry 1 to continue with advanced classes and most workshops.
Q: Most classes are offered once per week, is that enough time to get my projects done?
A: We offer classes once a week to accommodate many students work schedules, but you are encouraged to add an open studio class to get more time to work on your class projects.
Q: What metals will I be working with?
A: The non-ferrous metals (metals that don’t contain iron): primarily copper, brass, bronze, silver and gold. Classes using aluminum, titanium, niobium, pewter and punched tin will also be taught. If you are interested in working with steel and iron look at the class listings for the Sculpture Studio.
Q: Can I bring friends/kids/relatives to class?
A: Because of liability we are not allowed to have any non-registered students participate.
Q: What do I need to bring on my first day?
A: A materials list will be provided the first day a class meets and all necessary materials and supplies will be explained.
Q: How much can I expect to pay for materials?
A: This varies by class depending on the ambition of the student and whether precious metals such as silver or gold are used. Most class projects can be accomplished with copper or brass if you want to keep costs to a minimum. $30.00 to $100.00 is the average for the majority of classes offered.
Q: Where do I purchase supplies for the class?
A: Supplies are available at our gift shop, in addition a list of places to find materials will be provided on the first day of class.
Q: I am an advanced student, how do I get into the class I want?
A: The first time you register for a class as an advanced metalsmithing student you must contact the instructor first to make sure the class is suited to your level of skill. E-mail artstudios@mesaartscenter.com or call 480-644-6501.
Q: I am an advanced student and have a friend that is a beginner can we come to the advanced classes?
A: We have found that it works best for you to both sign up for the beginning class and you can work on projects independently of the class and your friend can learn at the same pace as the other beginners.
Q: I already know metalsmithing and don’t need a class. Is there a time when I can use the studio?
A: Take an open studio class and you can work on what ever you want. If you don’t know a particular advanced technique or equipment you may be asked to take a class to learn that before it will be available to you. Instructors and studio techs are available for help with the basics.
Q: Can you accommodate a production metalsmith/jeweler?
A: Our studio can’t support the needs of a production metalsmith, but we can offer instruction in new techniques and occasional use of specialized equipment.
Q: How do I find you?
A: Click here for directions.
Q: Is there parking nearby?
A: Yes, we have a well-lit parking lot adjacent to the Mesa Arts Center Studios building. The Metals and Jewelry Studio are located on the second floor in the north studios building. There is an unloading zone near the building to unload supplies, bring them in and then go park.
Q: I just want to make my wedding rings. Will I be able to make those in Jewelry 1?
A: You will learn how to make a basic band ring and can work in gold if you choose, but you won’t learn advanced stone setting. It will most likely take 3 to 4 classes and /or specialized workshops before you will feel comfortable setting your own stones.
Q: I don’t speak English, can you accommodate me as a student?
A: We have a wonderful volunteer program to help with translation during class. Please ask (x # of weeks) before class begins to give us time to find an appropriate volunteer. For information on the volunteer program click here.
Q: What if I need help with something I’m making?
A: An instructor is always available to help you solve problems.
Q: Can my social group meet at the Mesa Arts Center?
A: Call 480-644-6501 and we’ll see what we can arrange for you. We may be able to rent studio time for a particular function or set up a special class for your group.
Q: What’s the story with food and drinks?
A: Covered beverages are fine, but we don’t allow food during class because of possible contamination with metals or chemicals used in the studio. We have many beautiful spaces in the Mesa Arts Center where you can take a break and have a bite to eat.
Q: What do I wear in the studio?
A: Cotton or other natural fibers are recommended for safety reasons. Torches are used in the studio and in the event of an accident synthetic fibers may stick to skin and cause worse burns. Aprons are advised or clothes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Q: What safety gear do I need?
A: Safety glasses are necessary, earplugs and occasionally a respirator.
Q: I have quite a bit of metalsmithing, jewelry, lapidary experience, are you hiring?
A: We have openings occasionally for instructors, assistants, and volunteers. Please be aware that most staff have a bachelors degree or higher and are exhibiting artists or have equivalent experience in the field. Some of our instructors began as volunteers. For more information about volunteering contact us at volunteers@mesaartscenter.com or by phone at 480-644-6501 or visit the volunteer page.
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