Join me for a fun, creative workshop where you’ll discover the traditional craft of foil embossing.

There is something magical about taking a plain sheet of metal and transforming it into an object of beauty. The art of decorative metal embossing has been practised throughout the world for centuries, from the ancient Greeks and Romans to contemporary designers today.

I discovered this craft many years ago while researching handmade Christmas decorations. Since then, I’ve continued to explore its many creative possibilities and have even written a book on the subject.

Many traditional metal embossing techniques involve pressing or hammering a design into the metal. However, we’ll be using thin sheets of soft metal foil that are easy to work with, simply by drawing into the surface with a small tool. This technique allows you to create an enormous variety of textures and patterns.

It’s surprisingly simple to get started. You don’t need lots of equipment or any previous art experience. If you can doodle with a pen and paper, you can emboss!

During the workshop, we’ll be making a stunning autumn wreath using copper and gold foil and copper wire. It will capture all the warmth and glow of autumn and, unlike real leaves, it will keep its beauty year after year without ever shrivelling.

I’ll show you how to make templates from real leaves and foliage, transfer the shapes onto the foil, cut them out and emboss them. We’ll explore how different sizes of embossing tools can create a variety of textures, and we’ll look at pattern-making too. I’ll bring along lots of samples to inspire you and share ideas for creating your own repeat patterns to use in your designs.

Finally, I’ll show you how to join your copper leaves and foliage together with wire and bring all the pieces together to create a beautiful wreath to display at home.

Everyone who joins me for this wonderful day of exploring a new craft will take home their own set of embossing tools, along with the skills and inspiration to continue exploring this traditional art. You’ll be able to create more beautiful objects to admire, cherish or give as gifts.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced artist looking to try something new, this is an opportunity to slow down, play with new materials and discover the joy of making something entirely your own.

All materials are provided, so just bring your curiosity and a willingness to experiment!

To see more of Clare's work, head to her website here. Or head to Clare's Instagram here.

BOOKING THIS WORKSHOP:

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