Silver Clay Workshops

Experience the magic of using silver clay to handcraft real silver jewellery, learning how to texture, shape, fire and polish your design.

Check out all the Hampshire venues available in the drop down menu at the top.

You can also book a workshop for a birthday, hen do, work event or home booking with friends.

Silver Keepsakes

Capturing their precious prints forever in beautiful silver jewellery.

You can order fingerprints (from 16 weeks in person or from 3 years with a mould), handprints & footprints (from birth) or paw print jewellery. No maximum age.

Please use the contact form below to book an appointment or for further information.

Contact form

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About Silver Magpie

 

My name is Katherine and I am a wife and a mum to two boys, living in Petersfield, Hampshire.  I began Silver Magpie in 2013, making fingerprint jewellery as a hobby. It has since grown into a well-known local business, with the majority of my bookings coming from word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat clients as their families have grown.  I feel very honoured that people have chosen me to make their precious keepsakes and get a thrill seeing them being worn by clients out and about. 

Since 2021, I have been teaching workshops, showing people how to use silver clay.  I LOVE it! It’s my most favourite thing to do and I’m obsessed with it.  I can’t wait to show you how magical it is too :)  I’m building up classes in lots of areas in Hampshire so if you know of any good venues then please do let me know as I’m always on the lookout for more.

I hope you like what you see on the Silver Magpie website and I look forward to discussing design ideas or workshops with you in the future.

Delivery

Delivery

Fingerprint kits (silicon moulds/invisible ink/ink) will be posted within 48 hours of receiving your order. 

Turnaround of your order is usually within 21 days of receiving your prints.  This can sometimes be longer during busier periods like Christmas, Mother's Day and holiday periods.  

Postage of your item by Royal Mail Special Delivery is £4.50 and aims to deliver your item by 1pm next working day. It is, however, FREE to collect from Petersfield. 

 

Packaging

Fine Silver Jewellery will arrive in a high quality recycled gift box, ribbon, and packaged with a small silver polish cloth.

Please be aware that your jewellery will be pinned onto the white non-tarnish eco-fibre insert so please be careful when removing these.

Workshop FAQ’s

How many people do you have in a workshop? 

My workshops have a maximum of 8 - 10 people in a class. The only exception to this is my weekly class at The Makers’ House where I have a max of 6 people. 

 

What is the minimum age requirement?

Workshops can be booked by anyone over the age of 16 years. However, older teens (14+) may book alongside a fully paying adult; you will need to book 2 spaces. Depending on how your teen gets on in the session, I may ask you to do the firing element for them. 

  

I can no longer make the workshop. Can I have a refund? 

Unfortunately, refunds are not possible once a workshop has been booked. However, I can try to sell your space for you and, if successful, you can be reimbursed that way. Or, if given plenty of notice, I can try to switch you to a different date.  

 

What do I need to bring to the workshop?

Please bring a bottle of water to drink. You might want to bring a snack or light lunch, especially if you are booked into a longer class over 4hours. 
I do provide everything you need for the session so there is no need to bring anything else. However, if you already own a few tools and are keen to use them then by all means bring them but please ensure you take the right tools home with you. 

 

Do you provide drinks or snacks? 

Tea & coffee is available to purchase at every venue. I also provide (free) chocolate biscuits like Kit Kats or similar. 

 

What do I need to wear? 

Wear something comfortable. Please don’t wear scarves or long floaty sleeves as this can be a fire hazard when using blow torches in the session. Please do wear filled-in shoes; in hot weather, you are welcome to bring these to change into as it’s only required in the firing part of the session. Please also tie long hair back. 

 

Can I buy chains? 

I will have a small supply of chains with me for £5 each. I have a card machine or can take exact money but don’t carry change I’m afraid. 

 

Can I buy extra clay?

Whilst I do carry extra clay, I would recommend making only 2-3 items in the session as firing can add on 5-7 minutes for every item made which can then delay the class. The 7g pack you are given in the session will make 2-3 items so it’s is unlikely that you will need more clay than this. However, please do discuss ideas and if I think it’s possible then you can buy an extra pack of clay for £15.  

If you are looking to buy extra clay for home use, then I would recommend using www.metalclay.co.uk for this as they are a fabulous company and often have 15% discounts. 

 

I have arthritis. Can I still do this? 

Several of my student with arthritis have had a lot of success with silver clay. However, if you find there’s an element of the session that is proving difficult then please do let me know and I will help you. If you are worried at all then please do speak to me before the session or send me a message. 

  

I’m worried about using a blow torch. Can you do this for me?

If you don’t want to use the blow torch for firing, I can absolutely do this for you so please don’t worry.  

 

I have an idea of what I’d like to make. Can I do this? 

The answer to this is possibly. If it’s an easy thing to do then I can absolutely help you to make something in the session. 

However, if your idea is more complex and requires a lot of individual help then, unfortunately, there might not be enough time in the 3.5hr session to do this. I have a class of 8-10 people and need to make sure everyone feels equally supported so won’t necessarily get time to teach the skills required for more complex items. If this is also your first session using the clay then it is essential to get a basics class done first to see how the clay handles; it is very different to silversmithing. 

In this instance, you will be better off booking a 1-1 session afterwards or joining my weekly class where work is project based and so more complex ideas are ideally suited to this type of session.

Please do message me though to discuss your ideas as I’d happily give you advice. 

 

I really enjoyed the session. Do you do weekly classes?

I’m pleased you enjoyed the workshop. I do weekly classes at The Makers’ House (Fareham) and Making Space (Leigh Park). These are self-led sessions and I am there to support you. Everyone will be working on different things. I do also run class projects at times too which you can opt to do. Each week, I teach 1-2 different skills and explore the work of a designer. It’s a great way to develop your silver clay skills and we cover a huge range of topics - skills we just don’t time to look at in the single workshops. If you think you’d like to know more then please do send me a message. 

I really enjoyed the session. Do you do private bookings or parties?

I can teach 1-1 sessions focussing on particular skills you’d like to learn or I can do any of my regular classes as a 1-1 or small group session in your home. 

Ideal for birthdays, hen do’s & work events: I can run parties for groups of up to 10 people. You find the venue (home, hall, office) and I will bring all my tools & equipment. I need confirmation that the venue is happy with us using blow torches (small chef’s torch) and, in return, I can provide public liability details and risk asssessment.  

 

 

 

Keepsake FAQ’s

You probably have lots of questions regarding your jewellery, from how to book an appointment through to receiving your jewellery. Hopefully, you will find the answer below but, if not, please contact me by emailing katherine@silvermagpie.co.uk and I will be more than happy to help.

 

Can I book a home visit?

If you live within 30 minutes drive of Petersfield, then I can arrange a home visit with you.  Areas I cover, as an example, include Portsmouth, Fareham, Gosport, Whiteley, Havant, Chichester, Emsworth, Waterlooville, Petersfield, Liss, Liphook, Bordon, Alton, Midhurst, Godalming, Guildford, and all the towns and villages inbetween.  Please contact me if you are unsure.  But, generally, if the RAC say I can drive it in 30 minutes then a home visit is possible :) 

If you live slightly further than 30 minutes, then I will charge £5 and will travel up to 45 minutes.  

 

What if I live further away? How do I book for jewellery to be made?

Not to worry - you can definitely still have jewellery made. You now have several options - please contact me if unsure which option to choose.

  • I offer a silicon mould kit which will take a good print and I can use the mould at the studio to then make your jewellery. The kit will be sent to you in the post with instructions and, once you have a print, you then need to post it back to me.

  • I also offer an ink kit to take an imprint.  This will be sent to you in the post with instructions.Once you have a print, then you can email me a good quality image which I can use to make your jewellery. Please note that the ink print will be slightly enlarged during the production process to make your jewellery so you won't necessarily have a completely full print due to the shape and cut of your charm. 

  • If you are having hand/foot/paw print jewellery made, then you will be sent an inkless wipe kit in the post with instructions.  Try to take several prints so that I can choose the best one. Once you have a print, then you can email me a good quality image which I can use to make your jewellery.

 

What if I already have a print?

Sometimes, depending on circumstances, you may already have a print that I can use.  Please either email me the image/s or, if it is a silicon mould, please sent this to me in the post.  Any moulds will be returned to you, undamaged. 

 

How long does it take to receive my jewellery?

Once I have a print, it then takes approximately 3 weeks for your jewellery to be delivered.  This can sometimes be nearer 4 weeks during busy periods.

 

I am in a rush. Can I have my jewellery sooner?

If you require your jewellery for a special occasion and have left it a bit late, then please do contact me and I will see what I can do. This isn't always possible during busy periods but I will always try to help where I can.

 

How long does a home visit take?

An appointment takes approximately 30 mins for one child and 45 mins-1 hr for 2/3 children.

 

What happens at an appointment?

Firstly, I will talk to you about how your jewellery is made and how you take care of your finished piece. I will then discuss with you design options, shapes, chain styles, and then there is a little paperwork (receipt).  This tends to take 15-20 minutes. Finally, I then take a print; this can sometimes take several attempts as I like to make sure I have a good clear print and, in the case of babies, they can also scrunch up their hands so it can take a few goes to get this right.  Your prints are taken away and your finished jewellery is returned to you approximately 3 weeks later.  

 

When do I pay?

Payment is made either online at the time of buying your jewellery, or at the time of the appointment if booked through facebook.  If paying at a home appointment, I can take card or cash payments only (no cheques please). I use a SumUp card machine for your reference.

 

I'm worried my child will scream/shout/cry/not cooperate?

Firstly, you should know that the process is not painful and I do not use any force or pressure when taking the print.

Please don't worry about how your child reacts whilst I am there.  I am a secondary school teacher - believe me I've seen far worse behaviour wise :) I will always try to put your child at ease and I am very child-friendly, involving them in the process where possible; I have had children play the role of workshop manager, organising who will have the prints first, and I have had other children even cut out the prints. It's about making your child feel happy and comfortable.  

If you are a parent of a young baby, I can work around meal times, sleep patterns, little paddies they might throw - I've had 2 children myself so I know exactly how children can be. I don't use any pressure and the material is not cold so it will not harm your child in the slightest. If they get worried or worked up then we can take a break.  I work with you and your baby so your comfort is always my priority. 

 

How old do you have to be to have a print taken?

From 16 weeks to 99 years+.  I don't recommend haging fingerprints for very young babies under 16 weeks old as they don't have much of a print.  However, all ages above this are suitable including adults. Hand & foot prints can be taken from birth.

 

I would like jewellery made to remember a loved one who has passed away?

I am very sorry for your loss and I can absolutely help you in having this special piece made.  You may well have been given a set of prints from the funeral home or hospital.  If not, please contact the funeral home and they may well be able to help you acquire these prints.  Once you have this, please email any prints (or post me the mould) and I can start work on your keepsake. Please contact me to discuss any shapes or special wording at katherine@silver-magpie.co.uk

 

Where do I send prints?

Any moulds or prints, please send to Katherine Clay, 34 Monks Orchard, Petersfield, Hants, GU32 2JD. 

 

Do you do this in gold? 

I’m afraid I no longer offer gold as an option.  I can direct you to companies that do however.

 

What SHAPE can I choose?

Please click here to see the different shapes available for your jewellery.

 

What CHAIN can I choose?

Please click here to see the different chains available for your jewellery.

 

Can I cancel my order?

Unfortunately, once payment has been received, cancellation of your order may not be possible as work on your item will more than likely have begun already.  Your item is personalised to you only and so it cannot be resold to another person.  However, please contact us to confirm this as, if work has not yet started, then we might still be able to help.  

 

Can I amend my order?

If you suddenly realise you have made an error on the text or you wish to alter wording then you might be able to change this by contacting us within 24 hours of payment.  There is quite a bit of prep before the engraving stage, drying out prints etc, so it's always worth sending us a message. 

 

Can I return my order?

Personalised products cannot be returned, unless faulty.  If a fault occurs within 14 days of receipt then your item will be repaired at no cost to yourself.  Please message Katherine@silver-magpie.com for a returns address. 

If you need to return an item for repair, please email katherine@silver-magpie.com for a returns address.  Upon inspection, if your item was found to be faulty, then your item will naturally be repaired free of charge and any postage costs to yourself will be refunded.

Please return using Royal Mail Special Delivery as this is the only method that insures jewellery and gives you a tracking number. Please also use appropriate packaging and obtain a proof of postage. I am not liable for any jewellery that fails to arrive. Please contact Royal Mail in this instance. 

Postage refunds will be applied to your original method of payment and may take several days to show up in your account.

 

Do you do repairs?

Damage caused by misuse or general wear and tear can be returned and repaired for a small charge. We are also able to help with replacement chains and bracelets at a charge.  Please message Katherine@silver-magpie.com to receive an invoice and returns address if required. 

Please return using Royal Mail Special Delivery as this is the only method that insures jewellery. Please also ensure that suitable packaging has been used to secure your jewellery.  I am not liable for any jewellery that fails to arrive. Please contact Royal Mail in this instance. 

Please note, that in the case of fingerprint jewellery, older children's prints will be much stronger and clearer than those of young children which is why it is not recommended for children under 16 weeks of age.

 

How do I look after my jewellery?

You will have been provided with a care card and small polish cloth with your order. Please read this carefully.  

To care for your jewellery, please avoid sun creams, perfumes, sprays, body lotions etc; try to put these on first and make sure skin is dry before putting on jewellery.  Please also avoid wearing your jewellery whilst you sleep and also whilst in the bath, shower, pool or sea.  All of this can cause damage and signs of wear.

Lastly, if you catch or pull your jewellery, it may stretch the links and eventually cause a breakage at some point down the line; this doesn’t always happen immediately but it will weaken the chain. It can sometimes feel like you’ve not done anything to cause your chain to break but in fact you possibly caught it a couple of weeks ago and only now has the damage caused it to snap. Jewellery can last when looked after but daily life can sometimes intervene even with the most careful of people. Bracelets will get knocked about when worn. Necklaces can stretch or snap as they get pulled by children or when taking a jumper off. Keyrings can get battered from keys and items in your bag.  Please bear this in mind when jewellery shows wear and tear. 

Finally, if you know you wont be wearing your jewellery for months or years, place it inside a small Jiffy bag and squash out the air inside before sealing it shut. This will slow down the oxidisation process which turns silver black over time.  In case of this, a good polish cloth and polish cream works well. Avoid jewellery baths/soaks as these aren’t good for jewellery despite being sold in shops. 

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