Lost Wax Casting – Level 1
Discover the timeless art of lost wax casting in this hands-on jewellery-making workshop led by artist and jeweller Kate Hunter.
Over three engaging evening sessions, you’ll learn the foundations of sculpting with jeweller’s wax — a traditional technique used by jewellers and artists for centuries to create unique, handcrafted pieces. Guided step-by-step, you’ll design and carve your own organic ring, adding personalised details such as textures, engravings or fingerprint impressions before having your piece professionally cast.
Choose to have your ring cast in sterling silver, brass, or solid gold (9–18ct yellow, rose or white gold). Metal costs are charged separately based on the weight of your finished piece and are payable at the class.
Held at The Gallery, 6 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour, this beginner-friendly workshop requires no prior experience. Whether you’re looking for a creative challenge, a memorable date night, a unique experience with friends, or simply some dedicated time for yourself, this workshop offers a rewarding introduction to the world of jewellery making.
Bring a friend and save $50 (included in two-person tickets).
Each class is limited and strictly subject to availability.
What to Expect
Everyone makes one ring. Your creation is then cast in metal and finished to take home at the last class.
- Learn the Techniques: Our jeweller will guide you through the fundamentals of lost-wax casting. Learn how to add features in your piece – then it’s over to you!
- Time to Create: Personalise your ring however you like. Add textures, fingerprint impressions, and engravings. You decide the size, look and shape of your piece.
- Weigh and Pay: When ready, weigh your final ring and select a precious metal to cast it in – with the peace of mind you’ll only pay for what you use. Because you have creative control over the size, weight and precious metal you choose, the cost of casting your ring is up to you. Options for all budgets are available. Most cost $50-150 depending on your selections.
- We Take Care of the Rest: Leave your wax rings with us and our local jeweller will arrange to cast the piece to your instructions. At the last session you will finish polishing the ring and then get to wear it on the way home.
Each Ticket Includes
- 9 hours of hands-on tuition and guidance from experienced jeweller Kate Hunter
- Design and create your own unique organic ring using traditional jeweller’s wax
- Professional casting of your ring in your chosen metal
- Use of all tools, equipment and workshop materials
- Learn traditional lost wax casting techniques in a small group setting
- $50 saving when booking for two participants
- A creative, rewarding experience and a handcrafted ring to treasure
- Please note: The cost of the precious metal used to cast your ring is not included in the ticket price. Participants will select their preferred metal and pay for casting based on the weight of their design. Pricing is discussed during the workshop, with most rings typically costing between $50 and $150, depending on size, weight and metal choice.
About the Facilitator – Kate Hunter
Kate Hunter grew up in Upper Orara, NSW, surrounded by the rhythms of nature and the practical creativity of farm life. Raised on a dairy farm, she learned early how to mend, make, and improvise — creating rafts for the river, handmade kites, and weavings from angora goat hair.
At 17, Kate moved to Adelaide to study a Bachelor of Design, where she discovered her passion for metals, jewellery making, and surface treatments. Much of her creative practice has been developed through years of self-directed experimentation, trial, and discovery.
Following graduation, Kate spent time working across South Australia — from cattle properties in the Clare Valley to jewellery workshops in the small town of Laura — all while sketching ideas, journaling, writing poetry, and drawing inspiration from landscape and sky.
Her workshops are grounded, thoughtful, and deeply connected to creative exploration, materiality, and making by hand.
Presented by Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance
Supported by the NSW Government through Create NSW
The Gallery
6 Park Avenue, Coffs Harbour