FAQs

The jewellery workshop contains tools and equipment, which should always be used with care.

The tutor will instruct you how to use these safely.

Follow these simple rules for a safe and healthy workshop.

• Aprons will be provided to protect your clothes.
• Wear closed toed shoes.
• Hang coats on the hooks, not on the back of a chair, and make sure bags and tool boxes are kept under the bench to avoid tripping.
• When soldering be aware of where you are pointing the flame. The soldering block and the tip of the torch may be hot, be careful not to touch them. The extractor fan should be turned on while soldering.
• Protect your eyes with safety specs when drilling or polishing.
• Long hair should be tied back and scarves or dangly jewellery removed when soldering, polishing or drilling.
• A fire extinguisher is located on the wall to the left of the exit. In the event of a fire evacuate the studio and move a safe distance away and call 999 for assistance.

Yes, you can bring your own silver and stones, or you can buy them from me. I’m happy to sell it at cost price but I only carry a very limited supply. If you need to buy silver or gold, I will advise you what to order.

For metals and tools – www.cooksongold.com
For stones – www.wardgemstones.com

No, I welcome absolute beginners.

Yes, you will be able to up-cycle your own jewellery but this usually will take more than one session, and you will need some jewellery making experience before you are able to tackle complex alterations.

However, It’s worth asking, as some projects are easier than others.

Taster sessions – I run Taster session on Saturdays in the afternoon from1 – 3.00pm. Please book for your session through the website, and then email me for available dates.

Regular workshops during the week– Please email me first to check availability, and if there is space I will book you in. You can book either a single session or a block of four through my website.

For other workshops – Please book through my website, and then email me to arrange a date for your workshop.

I occasionally run special one off workshops, which are held on specific dates. Please book these through my website, and provide a contact name and number so that I can get in touch if needed.

Classes and workshops

My refund and exchange policy depends on the workshop you’ve booked.
For regular sessions and other workshops I am very happy to accept changes to bookings as long as I have 24 hours notice.

For “event” sessions which are held on specific dates, I require at least 48 hours notice of a cancellation or alteration to your booking.

Refunds are only given if I have to cancel a workshop, or at my discretion.

Jewellery returns and exchanges

Jewellery that has been ordered online can be returned for credit or an exchange within 14 days of purchase, provided it is unworn and not marked in any way.

Deposits paid for commissions and items are non-refundable.

All items remain the property of Aileen Hamilton until payment in full is received. Any outstanding balances or payments on bespoke or commissioned items must be paid in full within 14 days.