Learn how to work with Alginate and wax for constructing moulds. Over the two days you will use body-safe, perishable mould-making material – alginate - to create complex wax models for a piece of sculptural jewellery or a small to medium sculptural object.
Courses
Jewellery: Alginate and Wax Mould Making for Sculptural Jewellery and Objects
When & Where
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11 September 2025 - 12 September 2025 ( 10 hours, 2 weeks )
- Daytime, Thursday, Friday
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View course timetable
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Waterloo Centre
Quick Facts
- Availability Yes
- Tutor Margo Misiak-Orlovic
- Course Code W25JWYE03B
- Suitable For 19 year olds and up are permitted on this course
What you will learn
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, you will be able to:
- Select suitable objects to use as models for casting
- Confidently mix alginate and create an open mould using simple to medium complexity models
- Safely melt wax and apply it to the alginate mould
- Safely use a hot wax pen to combine and repair wax components
Cost
Full fee
£160
Concession fee
£120
Class format and activities
Following an introduction to materials and techniques, we will create a couple of test objects as a group. We will discuss ideas for possible final outcomes as a group and you will then make informed decisions in selecting your casting models based on your final aim. During the course you will create two moulds and two or more wax objects (depending on model size and complexity) which you will then combine into your final sculptural piece. Finally, you will perform the necessary repair and touch-up work on your wax piece, making it ready for further casting. Alginate is a very fast setting mould making material with combined mixing and working time under 10 minutes. It is ideal if you need your mould very fast or if you want to prototype quickly. It is a body-safe material used in dentistry and it can be safely used in a home environment. It is not as perfect at catching all detail or as flexible as silicone but it is very good and for many makers, including your course tutor, it is their material of choice. As a natural material (made of algi, hence the name) alginate does not last forever but deteriorates within a couple of days. There are many kinds of wax used by jewellers and artists and some of them will be discussed, demonstrated and applied during the course.
Entry requirements
This course is suitable for both beginner and more experienced mould makers. Basic understanding of making and using moulds and molten wax would be beneficial. The course content can be flexible and adjusted to the needs of the specific participant group.
What you need to know before you enrol
The jewellery studio is on the 3rd floor of the main building, there is lift access. We will provide masks and extraction but if you think you may be allergic to any of the materials used please speak to us before enrolling. Some chemicals used may be harmful in pregnancy. Please let the tutor know if you are pregnant and they will advise you as to necessary precautions.
What you need
All tools and materials needed to take part in the course will be provided in reasonable quantities. You are welcome to bring your own alginate if there is one you would like to use or try. You will be casting models which will become components of your complex wax piece. You can use your own body parts, like fingers, or bring a selection of objects you would like to consider for casting. If you have any preexisting wax cast pieces or fragments you might want to use in this project you are welcome to bring those. Please bring: an apron, a notebook/sketchbook and some sketching materials. Please wear suitable clothing and footwear – you may get dirty.
What you can do next
The material knowledge and practical skills gained in this course will allow you to continue working independently, creating wax models without need for college facilities (you will need to purchase a selection of materials, tools and low-tech equipment and observe health and safety procedures). Morley College offers a wide range of jewellery and sculpture courses for all levels. The tutor will be happy to discuss with you the possible further steps for developing your work.
