Summer Workshops

This three-day workshop introduces participants to the process of transforming flat metal into forms that can open, close, or move. Through demonstrations and hands-on practice, students will build foundational metalsmithing skills while creating a small wearable object with a simple moving mechanism. By the end of the session, participants will leave with a finished locket or pendant featuring a hinged or riveted mechanism. 

In this workshop, you will: 

• Shape sheet metal into dimensional forms. 

• Cut and refine edges using basic metalsmithing tools. 

• Create simple rivets or hinges that allow movement. 

• Practice introductory soldering techniques. 

• Complete finishing and assembly to create a wearable piece. 

REGISTRATION FORM

Instructor: Pavonis Giron, who earned a BFA in Metalsmithing and Sculpture from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, works closely with material and structure and aims to create an open, supportive environment for sharing process and experimentation. 

Instructor Language: English 

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: Wednesday, August 12, Thursday, August 13, Friday, August 14 

 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: $800.00 USD* Materials included  

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

This two-day workshop introduces participants to the fundamentals of chain making, exploring how repeating handmade links create both structure and visual rhythm. Through demonstrations and guided practice, students will learn essential metalsmithing techniques while constructing a functional chain that can be worn or used as an accessory. By the end of the session, participants will leave with a completed chain that can be worn as a necklace or bracelet, or used as a keychain. 

 In this workshop, you will: 

• Form consistent jump rings from metal wire. 

• Saw and cut rings for clean, precise links. 

• Solder jump rings closed to create a continuous chain. 

• Experiment with surface textures and finishes. 

• Fabricate a simple functional closure. 

REGISTRATION FORM

Instructor:Megan Kerr, who approaches jewelry with a strong technical focus and a commitment to clear, practical skill-building. In addition to her studies at Cranbrook, she holds a BFA in Metal from SUNY New Paltz. 

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: Thursday, July 23 and Friday, July 24, 2026 

 Time: 10am–2pm 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.