General Information:
• Suggested Class Level Qualifications (If not listed with a class, Level I is assumed).
➢ Level I – Intro: This student has little to No experience with jewelry-making materials or tools.
➢ Level II – Beginner: This student has some has experience and knowledge in using the materials or tools.
➢ Level III – Advanced-Beginner: This student has taken a class and made a piece of jewelry.
➢ Level IV - Intermediate: This student is experienced in jewelry-making and is interested in advancing on their skills and learning new techniques.
➢ Level V - Advanced: This student is skilled, experienced and knowledgeable in using the materials and tools. (Designers & Serious Hobbyists are most likely to take advanced classes.)
• The length of the class and the class fee is listed after the class description and all classes start on time.
• Most classes are $20 per hour. Supplies for the class are additional.
• You are responsible for bringing the required supplies and tools to class, however, items are available for purchase in the store. Please arrive 15 to 20 minutes early to select and purchase your materials. Any exceptions will be clearly noted.
• Special Interest Classes or Guest Instructors may have additional requirements.
Classes for Special Interest Groups:strong> These classes are designed for specific age groups. We offer Teen’s Only, Senior, and Mom & Me Classes. See what we have to offer for you! Check out our class choices, click here!
Weekly Classes: Basic & Advanced Wire Techniques, Basic & Advanced Bead Techniques, and Beader’s Choice (Friday’s) are a staple in our schedule and are available every week as long as the store is open. Check out our weekly descriptions, click here!
Groupon Classes: These classes are only available certain times of the year. http://www.genuinearticlewheaton.com/groupon
Holiday Classes: These are classes that we offer so you can make great jewlery or decorations to get you in the holiday spirit. Check out our class choices, click here!
Bead Stringing: This is the easiest way to make spectacular jewelry in a short time. Using cord, wire, or thread, you will string your favorite beads or stones in interesting patterns, designs, or color combinations. You will learn the basic beading techniques needed for stringing and finishing, as well as the proper use of the tools. A large selection of findings and various finishing methods can be used to assemble and complete your new piece of jewelry. Everyone likes a little instant gratification; so indulge yourself. Check out our class choices, click here!
Chain Maille: Trendy jewelry designs in earrings, bracelets, and necklaces have updated this 2000-year history of ring weaving techniques. Originally used as armor in cultures around the world, today a variety of stylish jewelry designs have developed from these uniquely intriguing weaves. After taking a class, you will know how to do a basic construction technique and the proper use of the tools. Check out our class choices, click here!
Copper Enameling
Janice Jacobek introduces the ancient art of copper enameling, teaching you how to make a pendant and pair of earrings and other applications for enameling.
Kaleidoscopes: “Kids of All Ages” enjoy looking at the sparkling, mystical, magic of a kaleidoscope. The basics of kaleidoscope making and the types of kaleidoscopes are taught in the beginning class. After the beginning class, go on to make a kaleidoscope using brass or stained glass for the body of the scope. FYI – Do you know that looking through a kaleidoscope has health benefits? Research shows kaleidoscopes can relax your breathing and lower your blood pressure. Make one for your desk at work, and a second one for your boss. Besides all that, they’re fun! Check out our class choices, click here!
Keepsakes: Join us a the Genuine Article for our newest class in creating a wonderful keepsake for yourself or to use as a gift. Arrange your photos any way you like (i.e. collage) and we will copy it onto a glass or ceramic ornament, tile, or pendant, making a beautiful, permanent keepsake. Check out our class choices, click here!
Kiln Formed Bracelet: Janice Jacobek introduces the fundamentals of designing, cutting, layering, and fusing glass to create a basic cuff style bracelet using a table top kiln. (this is a two-part class).
Lampwork Beads (Glass Bead Making): These glass bead-making classes are designed for students who are curious about the glass bead making process. Students are taught, step-by-step, to properly make quality glass beads. The Hot Head Torch and Moretti glass rods are used during all class instruction. The Hot Head Torch is specifically designed for lampworking, and the Moretti glass rods come in a marvelous range of colors; including filigrano and aventurine rods. Instructions in safety and setting up a studio at home are discussed.
Supplies: Students need to bring a 1 lb. canisters of Mapp Gas and Safety Glasses to class.
Special Instructions: Please wear 100% cotton clothing and closed toe shoes, for safety. Long hair must be tied back. Check out our class choices, click here!
Polymer Clay: Have Fun Experimenting with Polymer Clay. Learn about the basic tools and techniques needed to create fantastic beads, pendants, pins, boxes, and much, much more. This clay has endless possibilities and applications as an art medium. It is conveniently designed as home oven-fired clay, which means there are no costly kiln expenses for you. Check out our class choices, click here!
Wire Working: Check out our class choices, click here!