Experiences
Current experiences at the Smiddy
This page lists all currently available Smiddy Experiences.
Experiences are short, carefully structured sessions that offer an introduction to making in a calm and supportive environment. They are designed for people who want to try working with tools and materials without committing to a longer course.
If you are new to the Smiddy or unsure whether an experience is right for you, you may wish to read the Experiences overview page before booking.
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Below you will find a list of current experiences.
Each listing includes a brief summary. Clicking on an experience will take you to the full experience page, where you will find detailed information about what you will make, session length, pricing, and booking options.
Booking and payment take place on the individual experience pages.
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Experiences are introductory sessions rather than full training courses.
Please read the full experience description carefully before booking to ensure it matches your expectations, availability, and interests.
If you are looking for more in-depth learning, you may wish to explore Courses or Private Skills Sessions instead.
If you have questions before booking, you are welcome to get in touch.
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Experiences can be booked using a Gift Voucher.
A voucher allows the recipient to choose an experience that feels right for them. Vouchers are valid for six months from the date of purchase. The experience itself may take place after the voucher expiry date, provided the booking is made within that timeframe.
Gift Vouchers are a thoughtful option if you are buying for someone else and want to offer flexibility rather than selecting a specific date.
Available Experiences
Current experience listings are shown below.
Experiences are updated throughout the year based on capacity and programme planning.
About the workshop
Make a Silver Ring is a carefully guided introduction to traditional jewellery making, designed for those who would like to experience working with precious metal in a professional studio environment. During the workshop you will create a silver ring from scratch and take home a finished piece at the end of the session.
Working from a selection of sample styles, you will be supported step by step through the making process, from measuring and forming your ring to soldering and finishing. The focus is on learning core techniques in a calm, supportive setting, with time to personalise your ring through surface finish and form.
Who is this workshop for
This workshop is suitable for complete beginners and no previous experience is required. The structured, guided nature of the session makes it accessible whether you are confident in creative settings or simply curious to try something new.
What you will learn
During the session you will be introduced to essential jewellery making techniques, including:
Sawing and preparing metal
Shaping and forming a ring
Texturing
Soldering
Filing and finishing
You will work at a traditional jeweller’s bench using professional tools and equipment throughout the workshop.
What is included
All materials, tools and equipment are provided as part of the workshop. Each participant has their own dedicated workspace within the studio.
What to bring and wear
Please wear closed-toe shoes and ensure long hair is tied back. Loose clothing should be kept to a minimum for comfort and safety. If you use glasses for close work, we recommend bringing them, as jewellery making involves fine detail.
Practical details
This is a three hour workshop.
Morning sessions run from 10am to 1pm.
Afternoon sessions run from 2pm to 5pm.
Private bookings for small groups are also available and can be arranged for special occasions, creative days out or team experiences.
Additional information
All prices include VAT.
Participants must be aged 16 or over.
Good hand dexterity and close-up vision are important for this workshop.
Please read our full terms and cancellation policy before booking.
All prices are inclusive of VAT
Students must be 16+ years
Good eyesight and hand dexterity is essential
Please read our full Ts & Cs and Cancellation Policies before booking
Vanilla Ink The Smiddy
Old Market Place
Banff
AB45 1GE
After your experience
Some participants choose to continue after an experience through Courses or Private Skills Sessions. Others attend a single experience and stop there.
There is no expected pathway. Experiences are designed to stand on their own.
If you would like to explore other ways of engaging with the Smiddy, you may wish to return to the Learn overview.