Charm Bracelet Weekend Workshop: Create Your Own Set of Amulets

This two-day workshop explores the history and meaning of portable amulets while introducing participants to key jewelry-making techniques. Beginning with a look at symbolic objects worn for protection, identity, and personal expression across cultures, participants will create a series of handmade charms using metalworking processes such as forming, stamping, and texturing. On the second day, those charms will be incorporated into a finished bracelet through chain fabrication and assembly. By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with a handcrafted brass charm bracelet and a workshop zine filled with techniques and practical tips. 

 Day 1 

• Explore the evolution of the charm bracelet in both mass-market and contemporary jewelry. 

• Visual talk on the history of portable amulets and their cross-cultural significance. 

• Learn foundational techniques including hydraulic press forming, metal sawing and filing, and stamping and surface texturing. 

• Create five handmade charms ready to be incorporated into a bracelet. 

Day 2 

• Construct a bracelet through chain fabrication and clasp making. 

• Learn step-by-step chain construction and finishing techniques. 

• Assemble, solder, and finish the bracelet with your handmade charms. 

• Take home a brass bracelet with five charms and a workshop zine with techniques and pro tips. 

• There is an option to create a beaded bracelet alternative. 

REGISTRATION FORM

Instructors: Iris Eichenberg, Head of Metalsmithing and Artist-in-Residence; and Jimena Rios, Artist, and Director of Taller Eloi, Escuela de joyería (Jewelry School). 

Instructor Language: English/Spanish 

 Skill Level: This workshop is open to beginners and advanced students, age 18+. 

Max. participants: 7 

 Location: Metalsmithing department of Cranbrook Academy of Art in the New Studios Building. 

Parking: Cranbrook Art Museum Parking Lot. 

 Dates: Saturday, July 25 and Sunday, July 26, 2026 

 Time: 10am–3pm each day 

 Food/Beverage: Snacks provided. The Academy also has water bottle refill stations and vending machines near the Metalsmithing department. 

 Cost: $600.00 USD total, for both days*  Materials included  

*If the workshop does not meet the minimum number of participants, it will be canceled, and any purchases will be fully refunded.