Beginner Jewelry Classes in Portland
1. Learn to carve your design in wax
2. Cast it into real metal (with fire 🔥)
3. Leave with wearable jewelry you made yourself
Where the magic happens
✦ Beginner friendly workshops
✦ Make 1–2 finished pieces
✦ No experience needed
✦ All tools included
Meet your instructor
Learn from a working professional
who’s spent a decade turning wax into wearable art
Testimonials
I can't say enough wonderful things about my wax carving intensive with Betsy. My goals were to learn the basics of wax carving and stone setting— Little did I know I would walk away SO MUCH MORE. In our 2.5 day intensive, we worked crazy hours to achieve 3 projects: I lathed a wedding ring for my husband, carved a one of a kind ring with a sapphire for myself, and a cute little stacking ring. On our last day, I set the stone, cleaned the rings, and walked away with 3 finished projects. I also left with complete confidence to go for it in my business. Working with Betsy changed my life, and I would not be the jeweler I am today without spending this time in her studio. The way she explain things and can understand your way of thinking is so special. She tailored a unique experience exactly to my needs and I am forever grateful. If you ever have the opportunity to take a class with her, DO IT. You will not regret it! She is full of knowledge and if you apply yourself, the sky is the limit!
Erin Davidson
@vancedavidsonjewelry
I took Betsy’s wax carving class, and it genuinely delivered. She creates an environment where you feel welcomed and capable from the start — regardless of your experience level. Her teaching style is engaging, upbeat, and attentive, walking you through every step with dedicated attention. The highlight is using the centrifuge to cast your piece. There is nothing quite like watching molten metal become something you designed with your own hands. I walked away with a finished piece, a curated tool list, and her personal recommendations for continuing the work at home. Everything you need to actually take the craft somewhere. If you’ve been thinking about exploring jewelry making, Betsy is your person. 10/10, no hesitation.
Alyssa
@SaltCreekSilver
Betsy provides THE definitive masterclass in wax carving. She is deeply knowledgeable about every stage of the craft (from carving to casting to finishing) and radiates genuine kindness and support. She meets students where they are and helps bring their dream piece to life. There is no one better than Betsy to have in your corner. She helped elevate my work to a level I can be proud of. I highly recommend her classes to anyone interested in jewelry making. You won't regret it.
Margaret Alba
www.margaretalba.com
I had such an incredible learning experience with Betsy! She's a patient, thorough, and enthusiastic teacher and I learned so much in a few short days. I came with ideas and she helped me execute every step from start to finish--it’s rare to find someone who can meet you where you're at, push you forward quickly, and help turn half-baked thoughts into finished pieces. I leveled up a lot under her guidance and can't wait to come back!
Anne Vickman
@DistantWhistlesJewelry
I recently finished a 4-day wax carving and casting training with Betsy. She is so gifted as a jewelry maker and teacher, and I left with knowledge that put me years ahead of where I would be learning and struggling on my own. She is a magician in understanding physics and geometry and explaining them in a way that sticks for later use in a solo practice. We had the best time as we worked, using all the tools and cleaning up the final products. My only regret is that I cannot be her the studio full time for the rest of my days!
Janet Van Nuys
Google Review
