Sat, Aug 22
|3rd Bench Studio
Looking in the Mirror: Principles of Polishing and Surface Finishing with Erik Nakai Buckley
A perfect polish begins with planning. Learn how to get the finish you can see your smile in!
Time & Location
Aug 22, 2026, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
3rd Bench Studio, 3071 N Campbell Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719, USA
About the event
Description
A perfect polish begins with planning.
The old saying goes, "An ounce of preventions is worth a pound of cure." If cleaning up after tool marks and polishing grooves in pieces is the "cure" when nearing the end of a project, then the big polishing problem can be eased with an ounce of prevention--that is, planning, as well as understanding how to use the tools at your disposal.
From laying out a design and choosing tools to hiding seams and smoothing joints, this class will delve into the underlying concepts, specialty tools, and minute movements that lay the foundation for goldsmioth quality finishing. Covering the start-to-finish fabrication process from layout to polish, students will learn how to construct pieces designed for proper cleanup and complete them with varying levels of surface finish such as a high polish, satin finish, light textures, and more.
Student pre-requisite skills: Students should be comfortable with soldering and using a jeweler's saw.
All basic metalsmithing fabrication tools are available in studio to share.
We do ask that you store your belongings under the bench or near the doorway to allow for ease of movement about the studio.
All basic metalsmithing fabrication tools are available in studio to share.
Students Should Bring:
Favorite files, pliers, tools.
Solder--Hard, Medium
Instructor Will Provide:
Lunch: Students may enjoy snacks, lunch, beverage in the "living room". Feel free to use the studio refrigerator and microwave. Del Cielo, next door, serves wonderful Mexican food. There are other food venues nearby, though you may be crunched for time if you drive anywhere.
Studio "Pleases"--for safety and comfort
We ask that you store your belongings on / under the bench or near the doorway to allow for ease of movement about the studio.
Wear closed-toed shoes and avoid loose fitting clothing and dangly jewelry. Hair must be tied back.
Arrive 15" early to settle in and sign a waiver.