Kelham Makes: Metal Smithing Leaf Decorations

Get hands on with creative metalsmithing techniques to make a beautiful leaf shaped sculpture, decoration or piece of jewellery.  

In this special evening workshop, metal artist Morvarid Alavifard will teach you part of the fold forming technique, a process that uses folding, cutting, hammering and heat to shape metal. You’ll use thin sheets of copper and brass to create textured forms such as leaves, with the freedom to explore your own design. Finally, you’ll oxidise the metal to add colour and end up with a beautiful, individual artwork, with the option to add a ribbon or earring hooks to turn the final piece into a decoration or jewellery. 

No experience is required, and all materials are provided. 

Morvarid Alavifard is an Iranian interdisciplinary metal artist based in the UK, working primarily with silversmithing techniques. She exhibits her work nationally and internationally through various exhibitions and fairs. Morvarid has been awarded a Silver Fellowship from Yorkshire Artspace, where she is further developing her practice and skills. She obtained her Master’s degree in Jewellery and Metal from the Royal College of Art in 2022, supported by the Behrens Foundation Bursary Scholarship. Following her Master's, she spent a year at Bishopland Educational Trust, during which she was honoured with the Jane Goodman Award and Bursary. Prior to this, she graduated with a first-class Hons in Jewellery and Objects from Birmingham City University. She has a background in architecture and music.