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WATCHFUL EYE // A Protective Clasp

with Shannon Bundschuh

Intermediate
WATCHFUL EYE // A Protective Clasp: a finished piece from the class

Photo 1 of 2

When and where

  1. Tuesday, Feb 2, 2027

    9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Times are MST, the event's local time.

At a glance

Skill level
Intermediate
Class type
Project
Prerequisites
None listed
Total time
7 hours
Room
Announced closer to the event
Class size
14 students

Fees

Class fee
$220
Kit fee
$115, paid to the instructor on class day, not charged online

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

Fabricate an EYE-catching clasp that radiates good energy. Give your jewelry designs a meaningful finishing touch in this six-hour metalsmithing class focused on creating a handcrafted clasp with both function and symbolism. Inspired by the classic fisheye hook clasp, Watchful Eye offers a fresh new interpretation, transforming a traditional closure into a striking focal element. Students will fabricate an eye-shaped clasp that serves as both secure fastening and wearable talisman. Across many cultures, the evil eye is believed to offer protection, ward off negativity, and reflect harmful energy away from the wearer. In this class, that ancient symbol meets modern metalsmithing in a design that is elegant, bold, and rich with story. Techniques will include designing, sawing, shaping, soldering, filing, refining, and assembly. Because precision sawing is central to the project, students must be comfortable using a jeweler’s saw and working independently with somewhat detailed cuts. Upon completion, you’ll have a handcrafted clasp ready to incorporate into your own necklaces or bracelets, along with new skills to create jewelry closures worthy of being the star of the piece. Note: The evening class following this session focuses on creating a handmade chain that pairs beautifully with this clasp. Take both classes together and leave with all the components for a fully completed piece!

Contact Shannon Bundschuh

Included in the kit

Covered by the kit fee.

  • ALL STERLING required to complete the project
  • 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.

  • PLIERS // Chain Nose, Round Nose, Flat Nose, Flat/Half Round, Flush Cutters
  • 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
  • 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)
  • Work light and extension cord
  • Ear plugs

Optional supplies

  • 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 or as design on the front

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

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