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Practical Chasing
Chasing and repoussé are among the oldest—and most powerful—techniques in the metalsmith’s toolkit. In this hands-on workshop, metal artist Jeff de Boer shares the streamlined methods he has developed over decades of creating his iconic cat and mouse armor, offering a practical approach that makes these historic techniques more accessible and efficient at the bench.
Students will learn a system of “practical chasing”—a focused set of tools and techniques designed to reduce time while maintaining clarity, depth, and precision in surface work. What might traditionally take days can be accomplished in hours with the right approach.
In addition to learning these time-saving methods, participants will design and fabricate a custom set of chasing tools, tailored to their own working style and future projects. Demonstrations and exercises will emphasize control, efficiency, and how to integrate chasing and repoussé into jewelry and small-scale metalwork.
This workshop is suitable for students with introductory metalsmithing experience who are ready to expand their surface vocabulary and work more confidently and efficiently with these foundational techniques.
NOTE: Due to the high cost of precious metals, the student kit for this workshop includes base metals for sample-making to make it more accessible. Students wishing to work in silver are encouraged to bring materials to use - see "Materials" tab for more information.
PLEASE READ THE MATERIALS & TOOLS TAB CAREFULLY TO BE SURE YOU KNOW WHAT TO BRING.
Please be advised: Due to the need to order supplies, we customarily close registration for our on-site offerings one week before the start date. If you wish to join the class after registration closes, please contact us at [email protected] or 781-891-3854.
Meet the instructor
Canadian-born, National Geographic-featured artist Jeff de Boer has, over the past four decades, established an international reputation for his unique fusion of craft and concept. He is best known for his museum-quality suits of armour for cats and mice. From jewellery to large-scale public sculptures, Jeff has completed over 3,000 projects to date.
Today, Jeff works from his custom studio behind his home, where he shares insights into his projects and techniques on social media, while also touring internationally to deliver lectures and workshops.
Materials & Tools
The materials kit includes: Plasticine, colored marker set, 5 tool steel blanks, 6”x6” 24 gauge copper, 6”x6” 24 gauge brass, Scotchbrite pad and a hand-forged steel pitch spoon made by the instructor! The fee will also covers the cost of various other communal studio supplies needed to complete exercises and projects.
Note: Metalwerx has available all that you will need, but these tools and supplies need to be shared, and are not always in "mint" condition. Be sure to clearly mark any tools you bring from your home studio so they are easily identifiable.
- If you wish to work in silver (all, or in part), bring 24 gauge Sterling or fine silver sheet – at least 3”x3”
- 1 x X-acto knife
- 1 x Dividers
- 1 x Chasing hammer (your choice of weight)
- Hand & Needle files – Cuts 0-4 in your assorted sizes and shapes
- Wet/dry sandpaper sheets and/or sanding sticks (220-600 grit)
- 1 x Jeweler’s saw with 3/0 and 6/0 blades
- 1 x Tweezers
- 1 x Sheet metal shears
- Assorted Drill bits
- Any other standard hand tools you normally like to use for your work
- Optional: Your favorite metal forming stakes, hammers and/or mallets
Closed-toe shoes - required in the Metalwerx studio
PPE (safety glasses, apron, N95 particulate dust mask, ear plugs)
Shop towel
Ultra-Fine Point Sharpie
Notebook or sketchpad
Pen or pencil
Lunch – there will be a 1-hour break for lunch on each day of the workshop
Metalwerx has a fridge, toaster oven, and microwave
There is a deli/sandwich shop within walking distance of the studio.