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Fold forming is an exciting technique used to radically change the dimensions of sheet metal. Learn with experienced tutor Paul Wells how to exploit the metal’s natural plasticity to create dynamic sculptural forms.

Paul Wells has been exploring and teaching fold forming for more than two decades, focusing on fold forming and curved score methods. During this three day course, he will share the secrets of his award-winning wire-scoring technique which he has developed in recent years.

With the emphasis on exploration, you will practice the demonstrated folding and scoring techniques and then develop these ideas through focused experimentation, creating your own range of sculptural folded forms.

How will this course help my practice?

Delivered in person at the Goldsmiths’ Centre, this course will help you to:

• nject technique-led processes to develop ideas and boost creativity in your designs.
• Expand your understanding of metallurgy principles such as work hardening and the importance of annealing.
• Develop your competency to form metal, including stretching, hammering and use of rolling mill.

What does the course cover?

• Step-by-step demonstrations followed by a series of practical exercises to build up your confidence and develop forming techniques and processes.
• An understanding of the effects of fold forming in the transformation from 2D to 3D forms.
• Create different types of folds and curved scores samples.
• Produce a variety of folded copper forms—both samples of the demonstrated folding techniques, as well as your own sculptural explorations.

Our small class size offers you the chance to get group tuition as well as individual guidance on a 1:1 basis with your tutor, allowing you to receive tailored advice to deepen your knowledge and understanding of fold forming sheet metal.

What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring your own basic tool kit including but not limited to:

• Tin snips.
• Piercing saw frame.
• Saw blades 2/0 or 4/0 x 1 bundle.
• Half round hand file with handle.
• Raw hide mallet.
• Pair of dividers.
• A blunt butter knife (this is used to open up your pieces once folding has taken place).
• Ear plugs.

·         Protective clothing or clothing you do not mind getting dirty e.g. apron, and closed toe shoes.

What will I be provided with?

• All sheets metal (copper) needed to produce sample work.
• Wire for scoring.
• Dip gloves.
• Access to all workshop equipment necessary.

Who is this course designed for?

• Beginners: No practical experience or understanding of the listed skills required.
• Intermediate: Some practical experience and understanding of the listed skills required.

In order to benefit most from this course, participants should have experience of being in a workshop environment and able to work independently on basic tasks such as piercing, filling and annealing.

Who is the tutor?

Paul Wells is a Birmingham-based silversmith and jeweller, and has been teaching direct metalworking techniques for two decades. Wells’ silverware makes innovative use of fold-forming and he has developed a method of creating curved scores which can be used to fold sheet metal in a visually stunning and unique style; his technique has been recognised by Goldsmiths’ Crafts and Design Council with two Gold Awards for Technological Innovation.