What to Expect
Computer training is becoming important for students in metalworking and
jewelry-making programs. That's because programs like CAD (computer-aided
design) are in widespread use.
"CAD gave me options to create any form quickly, and delete and try again
if I wished," says Kim Fraczek. She is a graduate of the Tyler School of Art
at Temple University. "It also helped me understand 3D space on a higher
level."
Melanie Guthmiller is a graduate of the California Institute of Jewelry
Training (CIJT). CIJT has several classes designed to get students up to speed
in the craft of making jewelry. The school does not offer degrees or diplomas
(as fine art programs at universities do), but it provides basic hands-on
training.
Each module of training the school offers is seven weeks long. There are
very few lectures. Almost everything is shown by demonstration to the students.
Guthmiller prefers this kind of approach.
"I wanted to have fun," she says. "I like hands-on activities as far as
being able to see that I've produced something instead of just sitting at
a desk and working with paper."
Requirements for getting into the school are fairly lax. Advisors do recommend
that you finish high school. But you don't have to be an artist or even have
a background in art. In fact, there's no guarantee that having that kind of
background will make you a better jeweler.
"It just depends on what aspect you want to approach designing a piece
of jewelry," Guthmiller says.
"You can approach it a few different ways. You can pick up a wax and
just start carving and do something that's three-dimensional." Guthmiller
says you can also begin your design through a sketch on the computer.
A lot of people who go through jewelry-making training want to open up
a shop afterward, Guthmiller says. In order to prepare their students for
that, CIJT offers a range of business classes. They include general sales,
customer service, retail, management and appraisal.
Another element of the school that Guthmiller says is a benefit is the small
classes and the willingness of students of greater ability to work with
the newly enrolled. At CIJT, there are about 25 to 30 students in each classroom.
The size of the class is important for Fraczek, too.
"We sketch out designs and try them out. We have a group critique of
our ideas before we begin any project. When we start working, we have
one-on-one help with the teacher."