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4 articles
Fastenings are often the first component to fail and the last to receive dedicated bench time. This rehearsal plan examines six clasp types—lobster, box, toggle, S-hook, handmade hook and magnetic—with exercises, failure points and finishing notes for student work.
Repair and restoration are often treated as later-stage skills in UK jewellery training. This opinion piece argues that re-tipping claws, re-sizing bands and diagnosing wear should come earlier, because they build the bench judgement that new making alone cannot teach.
Digital design has transformed the jewellery workshop, but it has not made the sketchbook redundant. This article examines why hand-drawing remains a core discipline for UK jewellery students in 2026, how leading courses balance CAD with pencil work, and includes a practical bench exercise for developing form through drawing.
Ring bands are compact tests of joinery, proportion and finish, yet many UK students rehearse only the standard shank. This bench guide sets out five underused band methods, with practice drills, supplier notes and examples from Holt's Academy student work.