Workshop List

Discover the timeless art of pearl knotting in this engaging workshop. Learn the ins-and-outs of knotting pearls and other beads, both for security and as design elements. This class will teach you how to securely knot pearls and other beads on silk cord, how to choose the perfect size and color of cord to match your beads, techniques for tying consistent, tight knots between beads, methods for attaching clasps, and finishing touches to ensure a professional look. We will also cover how to use knots to create the elegant "floating" design where beads are spaced with visible gaps to create a floating bead design with evenly spaced beads for a delicate, airy appearance. You'll have a choice of beads, and take home a beautiful, knotted necklace, along with knotting tweezers so you can use your new skills at home. Other tools needed will be available for purchase or borrowing in class. (Bring your own beads if you have some you want to turn into a necklace.) For more information and to sign up for the workshop, email Susan at susan@susanryza.com or call 310-944-1299.

Create simple seed bead fringe earrings with an easy threading technique. All-inclusive fee includes class instruction and provides materials. Level: Beginner

Learn how to create your own pendant or keychain out of wax in the lost wax casting style of jewelry making. In this 2.5 hour workshop you'll learn about the tools and the process with plenty of time to create your own unique piece. All tools and materials will be provided. Just bring your ideas! Wax is so much fun to work with - totally suitable for beginners, VERY forgiving of mistakes and the possibilities are endless. You will be hooked. Casting and finishing is a separate process, not done on site. You will leave your wax pieces with me after class and I will mail them to you once transformed into the metal of your choice. Casting and finishing costs are not included and will depend on the size of your piece and the material you choose (brass or sterling silver). Costs range between $50-$100. Your kit fee will serve as an initial deposit and I will collect the balance once your piece has been cast.

Class Description: In this class, you will learn the basics of macramé knotting and how to create a bracelet with an adjustable, sliding closure. We will cover a fascinating variety of usual and very unusual ways to combine beads with cord to create a unique bracelet of your own! In addition, you will learn the effect of proportion and how the same techniques can be used to create delicate, elegant pieces or bold and earthy jewelry, depending on the size and type of materials chosen. A wide range of cord and bead color options will be available for you to choose from. You will come away with a finished bracelet, along with detailed, printed instructions for applying these techniques in future projects. All tools needed will be available to use in class, and for purchase. For more information and to sign up for the workshop, email Susan at susan@susanryza.com or call 310-944-1299.

Class Description: Create a unique needle-woven bracelet with two-hole beads! You’ll have a choice of using either Half Tila or Superduo Beads to create any one of 3 distinct patterns. Plus, once you’ve learned any of these styles, you’ll be able to apply your knowledge to creating any of the other 2 bracelet patterns. You’ll take home your own unique bracelet, along with 3 sets of printed instructions to reproduce all of the techniques on your own. In this class, you’ll learn how to attach a clasp to a needle-woven bracelet and how to use chain to make the bracelet size adjustable. You’ll also come away with information about choosing bead types, clasps, thread types and sizes, and proper needles. The materials fee includes a beading needle and all the supplies that go into making your own special bracelet. Other tools needed in this class will be available to borrow during the class or to purchase at discounted prices, if desired. For more information and to sign up for the workshop, email Susan at susan@susanryza.com or call 310-944-1299

In this 3 hour class you will produce at least two to three, but most likely many more sterling silver and brass stacking rings to wear home. During this class you'll learn about the tools and equipment and then how to size, form, saw, solder, shape, hammer (texturize) and polish sterling silver and brass using tools such as a caliper, jewelers saw, files, multiple hammers, a butane torch and a dremel among others.

Learn a traditional knotting technique using tweezer/awl. Build your knotting skills while making a bracelet with Czech Glass Pearls on silk. All-inclusive fee includes class instruction and provides materials.

Play with color and learn to crimp with this multi-strand bracelet. All-inclusive fee includes class instruction and provides materials.

Class Description: Dive into the ancient art of Viking knit jewelry in this hands-on workshop. Viking knit, also known as trichinopoly chain making, is a form of wire weaving that dates back to the time of the Vikings. In this class, you will learn how to create a stunning, intricate Viking knit bracelet. What You Will Learn: Basic techniques of single and double wire weaving to create the Viking knit chain on the super easy Lazee Daizee Viking Knit tool invented by Stephanie Eddy. How to use the woven chain to create a beautiful, decorative bracelet, including finishing techniques to cap off and assemble your bracelet with clasp and optional decorations. You’ll take home a unique and unusual, Viking knit bracelet, a set of Viking knit tools that can be used again and again for future projects, and detailed, printed instructions. Whether you're a seasoned jeweler or a curious beginner, this workshop offers a unique opportunity to learn a rare and beautiful craft in a friendly, supportive environment. For more information and to sign up for the workshop, email Susan at susan@susanryza.com or call 310-944-1299.

Discover the timeless art of pearl knotting in this engaging workshop. Learn the ins-and-outs of knotting pearls and other beads, both for security and as design elements. This class will teach you how to securely knot pearls and other beads on silk cord, how to choose the perfect size and color of cord to match your beads, techniques for tying consistent, tight knots between beads, methods for attaching clasps, and finishing touches to ensure a professional look. We will also cover how to use knots to create the elegant "floating" design where beads are spaced with visible gaps to create a floating bead design with evenly spaced beads for a delicate, airy appearance. You'll have a choice of beads, and take home a beautiful, knotted necklace, along with knotting tweezers so you can use your new skills at home. Other tools needed will be available for purchase or borrowing in class. (Bring your own beads if you have some you want to turn into a necklace.) For more information and to sign up for the workshop, email Susan at susan@susanryza.com or call 310-944-1299.

Learn the basics of making wrap bracelets with a single wrap made with 6mm glass and leather. All-inclusive fee includes class instruction and provides materials.

Class Description: In this class, you will learn a more advanced type of macramé knotting that can be used for very intricate designs. You’ll have a choice of cord colors to create a uniquely beautiful & sophisticated macrame necklace that you’ll be proud to wear on any occasion. You’ll also learn to use a macrame bead board and create an adjustable clasp. A wide range of cord color options will be available for you to choose from. You will come away with a finished necklace, along with detailed, printed instructions for applying these techniques to future projects. All tools needed will be available to use in class, and for purchase. For more information and to sign up for the workshop, email Susan at susan@susanryza.com or call 310-944-1299.

Create simple seed bead fringe earrings with an easy threading technique. All-inclusive fee includes class instruction and provides materials. Level: Beginner