Make Your Own Charms Workshop — Wax Build-Up Method (Sun 15 Feb 2026)
Perfect for Valentine's, this hands-on workshop lets you design and make two heart charms from scratch using my wax build-up method — then I'll have them cast and finish them in my Mt Eden studio.
Limited to 6 people so everyone gets time at the bench. Workshop Details
- Date: Sunday 15 February 2026
- Time: 2:00pm – 5:00pm
- Duration: 3 hours
- Location: Mt Eden, Auckland (address provided after booking)
- Class size: 6 people max
- Skill level: Beginner-friendly
- Materials: Wax provided. Casting in Sterling Silver or Bronze included (choose on the day). Gold casting available at additional cost (price given on the day)
- Finished charms ready: approx. 2–3 weeks after the workshop
- Pickup / delivery: Pickup available or courier (Urban $10.50 - Rural $16.50) What You'll Make
During the workshop you'll create two heart charms (approximately 12mm x 12mm each) using wax build-up — layering, shaping, and texturing the wax to create something completely personal.
Choose from three heart styles:
- Fingerprint Heart — capture your unique print in wax
- Organic Heart — build up texture and form using wax layers
- Fluid Drop Heart — create a smooth, flowing heart shape then scatter some drops of wax
You can make two different styles or two the same — it's entirely up to you. Why Wax Build-Up?
This isn't traditional wax carving. Wax build-up is the method I use in my own work — it's playful, experimental, and a bit addictive.
Instead of removing wax, you add and shape it, building form and texture as you go. It's perfect for charms because the pieces are small, meaningful, and full of detail. What We'll Do
In a relaxed, friendly session you'll:
- learn how wax build-up works (tools, heat control, shaping)
- explore texture techniques
- design and form your heart charms
- refine them ready for casting
I'll guide you through the whole process — no experience needed. What's Included
✅ All wax and use of workshop tools
✅ Guidance and help from Sally throughout
✅ Professional casting of your two finished wax charms in Sterling Silver or Bronze
✅ Finishing by Sally in the HerbertandWilks studio
✅ Your finished charms ready in approximately 2–3 weeks What's Not Included
- Sterling silver or bronze beyond 5g is charged at $10 per gram casting fee GST
- Casting fee is typically $6–$8 GST
- Gold can be used and will be quoted at the day’s market rate
- Fine sterling silver chain available for $45 What to bring/wear
- Closed-toe shoes
- Hair tied back (if long)
- Reading glasses if you use them
- A water bottle
- Short nails help — but not essential! A Note on Class Size
This workshop is limited to 6 people so you get plenty of 1:1 help and enough time at the bench. It's calm, creative, and very hands-on. Booking & Cancellation Policy
Your booking secures your place. If you can't make it, please refer to our cancellation and transfer policy. If the workshop cannot run (rare), you'll be offered a transfer or full refund.