The Fibula is an ancient brooch format and is a precursor to the modern safety pin. Devising “new” and inventive versions of this classic object dating back to the Bronze Age is a fun and interesting metalsmithing challenge. All fibulae feature just four parts: the body, the pin, the spring, and the hinge. In this workshop, we will riff on three Classical fibulae formats: Bow, Spectacle and Ring, using a selection of bronze (of course!) wire and sheet metals.
Strong Jewelry making pliers (I recommend Wubbers for this class); A Dremel if you have one with sanding and grinding attachments; A sturdy file for metal; Sturdy wire cutters from the hardware store; A sturdy ball peen or forming hammer; A steel bench block or small anvil; A tray, plate, bowl or cloth for your stuff ;A notebook and writing materials for your ideation and memory; Personal task light and magnification (if needed); Earplugs if noise bothers you.