Icka Cantillo, Instructor
Sunday, March 23, 2025
9 AM -5 PM
Students will learn to cut jewelry designs out of 22 gauge copper sheet using a traditional jewelers bench handsaw. The craft of piercing metal is an excellent starting point for beginners who would like to learn the raw hand fabricating processes in jewelry making, as well as, refining the skill for broader use in the craft of a more seasoned jewelry craft artist. Students will learn to cut jewelry designs out of sheet metal using a traditional jewelers bench handsaw. We will create a necklace pendant from start to finish and cover various techniques to maximize the potential use of this amazing tool that has been used throughout history. You will be provided with your own handsaw, bench pin and other supplies for continued exploration with this pivotal tool.
Icka Cantillo
A Richmond native, I graduated from VCU School of the Arts with a BFA in Sculpture and a BFA in Craft and Material Studies. Studied Blacksmithing at Ox-Bow school of the Arts in Saugatuck Michigan. My artistic focus has been in all forms of metal work, ferrous to non-ferrous. I’ve had my work exhibited throughout Virginia and featured in print media, markets and pop-up shops. Participated in numerous juried art festivals and shows.
After graduating I worked for a local refinery in their casting department. Became a mama. Taught beginners basic welding classes at Build RVA, a community makers space. Taught an intro to jewelry for homeschooled high schoolers. Started my business as an independent jeweler with Square of the Bone jewelry.
I draw inspiration from natural sciences, biology and the vast expanse of nature, I consider and weigh how my processes and actions as a maker affect our shared environment.
My aspiration as a craft artist is to use raw hand fabrication methods and elevate the malleability of metal as a medium.