Handwork Week 2026 | Special Event, Jewelry & Fine Metals
Dimensional Layering with Clasp Combinations
Layering sterling silver sheet, create three-dimensional constructions you can craft into functional clasps.
Cancellation, Tuition Assistance, and Other Policies
Meeting Times
- Mon, 4/27/2026 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Tue, 4/28/2026 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Wed, 4/29/2026 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Thur, 4/30/2026 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Fri, 5/1/2026 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Mon, 4/27/2026 - Fri, 5/1/2026
Waitlist
Registration does not include lunches or the May 1 Celebration Dinner. Purchase lunch tickets or purchase Celebration Dinner tickets.
Handwork Week is made possible with support from:
Handwork Week at BARN
Join us for an extraordinary exploration of American craft as BARN participates in Handwork: Celebrating American Craft 2026, a national initiative led by PBS's Craft in America and the Smithsonian's Renwick Gallery.
About This Workshop
In this five-day workshop, we'll create approximately four samples using three methods of dimensional layering. Two of these methods also can be used to create clasps. The goal will be to create at least four projects with one or two able to also function as a clasping mechanism. Project samples can be finished out as time allows. The instructor, Suzanne, will demonstrate how to develop designs for each method, and how to create layers and assemble the two- or three-layer constructions using the following three methods:
Method 1: Cold connecting layers of sheet using rivets. Multiple layers of sheet are stacked and riveted together using rivet pins in combination with spacers (crimp beads or short lengths of tubing) to create three-dimensional constructions that have space and dimension between layers. Projects using this method can be created using mixed metals.
Method 2: Rectangular wire frames and flat sheet. A rectangular wireframe acts as both a design element and a way to create space and dimension between two layers of metal sheet (usually sterling silver) that are soldered directly to the frame. This construction method can be modified for projects so they can also function as a two-part clasping mechanism.
Method 3: Flat sheet with square wire supports. Two layers of flat sheet are soldered directly to square wire supports that create space and dimension between layers. This method also can be modified to become a two-part clasping mechanism. An insert connected to one end of a chain is placed in a channel in the main component, rotated and locked, creating a secure clasp.
Details
- Skill level: Intermediate. You must be able to work independently on projects of your own design, and be proficient in sawing, filing, drilling, annealing, and soldering metal.
- The studio will be open 6 to 8 PM as long as a studio monitor and/or the instructor is present.
Materials
- A materials kit, included in the price of the class, will provide everything you need except for sterling silver sheet. You may bring your own 18-gauge sterling silver sheet (20g is optional). If you plan to make all your projects with 18g sterling silver sheet, you'll need a piece that is at least approximately 2 by 6 inches.
- Some additional materials, including sterling silver sheet, will be available for purchase through the studio.
- You should bring:
- Apron.
- Towels for drying metal and hands.
- Pen, notebook, Ultra Fine-Point Sharpie or other pen that writes on metal.
- All other tools and equipment are provided in the studio. However, you can bring your favorite hand tools, such as pliers, flush cutters, needle files, digital calipers, etc., as well as magnifying glasses.
Class Policies
- Wear closed-toe shoes and natural fiber clothing.
- Do not wear loose or synthetic-fiber clothing, dangling jewelry, scarves, or ties.
- Cover beards. Tie back long hair in a bun.
- Ages 14 and up are welcome.
Handwork Week Schedule
This preliminary schedule is subject to change.
Sunday, April 26
- 2 PM: BARN tour for new students and visitors
- 4 PM: Studio-specific orientations (TBD)
Monday, April 27 - Thursday, April 30
- 9 AM - 12 PM: Classes
- 12 PM - 1 PM: Lunch
- 1 - 4 or 5 PM: Classes
- 5 or 6 PM - 10 PM: Open Studios (unstructured work time for Handwork students and community)
- 7 - 9 PM: Community events (TBD)
Friday, May 1
- 9 AM - 12 PM: Classes
- 12 PM - 1 PM: Lunch
- 1 PM - 4 PM: Classes
- 3 PM: Optional item dropoff for Silent Auction participants
- 4 - 6 PM: Studio walkthrough, Silent Auction, drinks and appetizers (open to community)
- 6 - 8 PM: Celebration Dinner (not included in course registration; tickets required).
Handwork Week Dining Options
Class registration does not include catered lunches or tickets to the May 1 Celebration Dinner.
Lunch Options
Join us for lunches catered each day by Fig & Spice! View the menu and purchase lunch tickets.
If you'd prefer to explore Bainbridge Island during lunch, check out restaurant options.
You're also welcome to bring a packed lunch. BARN's lower level has a refrigerator and microwave for community use.
Dinner Options
Dinners are on your own during Handwork Week. We hope you'll join us for our Celebration Dinner on May 1 (purchase tickets here)! During Handwork Week, explore delicious food options a short distance from BARN and across the Agate Pass Bridge in Poulsbo.
Evening Activities
We're planning community art events during the evenings of Handwork Week. Stay tuned!
Silent Auction
Handwork Week participants are invited to submit work to our Silent Auction, happening Friday, May 1 at 4:30 PM. Proceeds benefit BARN programs. More details coming soon!
BARN Handwork 2026 Policies
- Cancellation Policies for Handwork Classes: We understand schedules can be unpredictable. Because there is a lot of planning for this event, BARN is implementing a special Handwork 2026 cancellation and refund policy.
- Cancellations requested prior to Feb. 13, 2026, will be eligible for a refund of 85% of all class fees.
- Cancellations requested between Feb. 13 and March 13, 2026, will be eligible for a refund of 50% of all class fees.
- Cancellations requested on March 14, 2026, or later will not be eligible for refunds.
- To request a cancellation, click the link in your profile or email registrar@bainbridgebarn.org.
- We strongly encourage out-of-town visitors to make refundable reservations.
- Tuition Assistance is available. We will prioritize Handwork 2026 tuition assistance for local students, who are eligible to apply at any time. Out-of-town applications will be processed after Jan. 1, 2026. Fill out the application before registering.
- BARN is committed to accessibility. We try to make accommodations when requested; the earlier you contact us, the more likely we can help. Fill out the Accommodation Request Form before any class for which you require an accommodation. Email accessibility@bainbridgebarn.org if you have any questions.
- Sensory Statement: Makerspaces like BARN can be noisy and cluttered, smell strongly, and have bright or flickering lights. BARN is not an allergen-free facility. If you have concerns, please email info@bainbridgebarn.org.
Instructors or Guides
Suzanne Williams
Handwork Week is made possible with support from:
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