Chasing & Repousse Classes in New York

Valentin Yotkov Studio, New York City:
The Valentin Yotkov Studio in Brooklyn, New York City is one of the only schools in the USA that specializes in chasing/repousse instruction. Our studio offers weekly classes, intensive workshops, as well as private tutoring. Valentin also teaches at other schools in the US and abroad. We are open year round, and all levels are welcome.

Weekly Chasing and Repousse Classes & Workshops:

Ornamental Chasing and Repoussé Workshops
The ancient techniques of chasing and repoussé are currently experiencing a rebirth among silversmiths, jewelry designers and other artists of metal work. During this intensive, hands on workshop you will develop basic to intermediate skills in the execution of ornamental chasing and repoussé designs. We will explore different ways to further enhance your work through the application of these techniques. Since good chasing tools are no longer available, you will also be introduced to the process of making tools, their different shapes and applications. Individual ideas and style will be strongly encouraged. Previous experience is helpful, but not required.

Miniature Vessel Raising Workshop
During this workshop students will use miniature stakes and specially formed tools to raise and fabricate miniature gold and silver vessels, unusual beads and other hollow objects for jewelry. Those with experience in chasing and repousse will produce three-dimensional sculpture beads depicting animal heads or human faces. Granulation or enamel can also be applied to the vessels.

Chasing on a Three Dimensional Vessel Workshop
Join us for this workshop and learn how the Greek and Thracian goldsmiths used Chasing and Repousse to decorate their fantastic gold and silver vessels. Beginners will chase intricate designs using fine liners. Intermediate level students will master deep chasing which resembles repousse, and those with advanced skills will create designs in high relief using the snarling iron. All levels welcome.

Chasing and Repoussé Weekly Class
- Introduction to chasing and repoussé techinques with detailed demonstration.
- Preparation and use of the pitch bowl.
- Create your own designs on jewelry or hollowware, using liners, embossing, modeling and matting punches.

Constructed Holloware Weekly Class
- Properties of sterling silver and other non-ferrous metals.
- Silver solder and how to use it on mulitple joints.
- Constructing a small hollow piece using hard, medium and easy silver solder.
- Filing, sanding and polishing of the finished piece.

Chasing on a Three Dimensional Vessel Weekly Class
Join us for this class and learn how the Greek and Thracian goldsmiths used Chasing and Repoussé to decorate their fantastic gold and silver vessels. Beginners will chase intricate designs using fine liners. Intermediate level students will master deep chasing which resembles repousse, and those with advanced skills will create designs in high relief using the snarling iron. All levels welcome.