Skip to main content

THE DESERT 2027: registration for everyone opens Oct 17 at 11:59 am (Phoenix time)

Make your hotel reservation here (opens in a new window)

Menu

NORDIC BELLS // A Charm Workshop

with Shannon Bundschuh

Advanced beginner
NORDIC BELLS // A Charm Workshop: a finished piece from the class

Photo 1 of 4

When and where

  1. Monday, Feb 1, 2027

    6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Times are MST, the event's local time.

At a glance

Skill level
Advanced beginner. Advanced Beginner / Intermediate
Class type
Project
Prerequisites
None listed
Total time
3 hours
Room
Announced closer to the event
Class size
14 students

Fees

Class fee
$110
Kit fee
$40, paid to the instructor on class day, not charged online

Payable to instructor at class time. Please bring cash if possible. Precious Metal Pricing: Kit fees that include silver or other precious metals are subject to market fluctuations. Final pricing will be established and locked in on the date the instructor purchases the metals

About this class

A tiny bell that rings with joy. In this hands-on metalsmithing class, students will create their own Scandinavian-style bell charms—small, wearable pieces inspired by Nordic folk art and clean, timeless design. These miniature bells actually ring and are full of personality, making them a perfect mix of form and function. You’ll learn to fabricate a small bell using sterling silver, cut and shape decorative motifs, and assemble the pieces into a dimensional charm with sound and movement. Whether worn as a pendant, added to a bracelet, or gifted to someone special, each bell tells its own story. This is a playful, approachable project with a beautiful result—and a great way to expand your metalsmithing skill set in a joyful, creative setting. Let it ring!

Contact Shannon Bundschuh

Included in the kit

Covered by the kit fee.

  • Brass sheet metal, wire and components
  • Bell template
  • Detailed Handout
  • Sanding Cloth
  • Pro Polish Pad
  • Sheet Solder, flux
  • Logo’d “goodie" bag

Tools the instructor brings

Shared in class. You do not need to pack these.

  • Soldering stations – torches, fuel, solder, platforms, quench bowls, towels
  • Table protection
  • Pickle
  • LOS patina
  • Baking Soda for neutralizer
  • Dawn, paper towels, dishpans for water
  • Flex shaft
  • A few extras of tools on student list

What to bring

Your own tools and materials for the class.

  • BRASS sheet metal and wire will be provided in your kit. You are welcome to bring your own sterling silver if you would prefer. I recommend 22 or 24 gauge sheet and 18 or 20 gauge wire.
  • PLIERS // Chain Nose, Round Nose, Flat Nose, Flat/Half Round, Flush Cutters
  • Center Punch
  • Dapping block set - There will only be a couple for use in class that will be shared. If you have one and can bring it, please do. This will be a rate limiting step. Bring an appropriate hammer to use with it as well.
  • Drill Bits (my preferred are Busch Twist Drills Size 0.80 MM)
  • HAMMERS // Rawhide or Nylon mallet
  • Steel Bench Block and rubber base
  • FILES // Cut #2 - flat, half round, Needle files, Square File
  • Miter Jig
  • Jewelers Saw & Blades (3/0, 4/0 or 5/0)
  • Bench Pin & Clamp
  • Cut Lube or Blade Butter
  • Solder Pick
  • Tweezers - for detail work and a pair for soldering
  • Measuring Tools // Ruler with MM, Digital Caliper
  • Foam sanding pads (3M) - Fine, Superfine
  • Sketchbook and/or pad of paper
  • Pencil and Fine Point Sharpie
  • Magnification // Optivisor (needed for detailed sawing)

Optional supplies

  • Ear protection/plugs
  • Work light and extension cord
  • Polishing and Sanding wheels to be used with the Flex Shaft
  • Your makers mark stamp or other stamps to add to the back of your pieces

Safety and preparation

Before class
Please note that everyone works at their own pace, and not all students may complete the project during class time. That is completely normal and part of the learning process. Your kit includes a detailed handout with step-by-step guidance to help you finish your piece at home, as well as serve as a helpful reference when you return to your own studio.

Your instructor

More classes at THE DESERT 2027