Techniques in Focus: 2D Design - Hand-Rendering

Date
07 Jul 2025 · 6:00PM - 7:00PM
Price
Pay what you can: £5 or £10
Venue
Online (via Zoom), UK time
Programme type
Technical Skills Training, Talks
Book now

Join goldsmith and award-winning jewellery designer, Janet Weller, in this online talk introducing the technique of hand-rendering for jewellery design. In her presentation Janet will explore how to effectively respond to a design brief; to assess what is being asked for, develop initial ideas and take these forward into a finished design.

It is also essential for those hand-rendering 2D designs to communicate them well. Janet will also talk about how to create excellent and effective design presentations, which meet the needs of the brief and client. There will be the opportunity to ask questions and join in the conversation.

This event has been organised in collaboration with the Goldsmiths' Craft & Design Council (GC&DC). Janet's designs have won more than 20 GC&DC Awards Since 2002, including 6 Golds plus 6 sponsored awards, scooping the 2D hand rendering prize in 2023 and 2025.

Join our waiting list and express your interest in future 2D design short courses at the Goldsmiths’ Centre by following this link

FAQs

Our events are held both in person at the Goldsmiths’ Centre and online, allowing our community across the UK to connect, share ideas, and learn from industry experts. To encourage open, honest discussion and protect confidentiality, we do not routinely record or broadcast these sessions - unless they are being used specifically for teaching purposes. We regularly revisit popular topics, so there will be future opportunities to engage with them.

Techniques in Focus talks are a series of events that delve into specific jewellery-making techniques, offering insights into their history, application, and relevance in contemporary practice. These talks are designed for jewellers, silversmiths, and enthusiasts keen on deepening their technical knowledge and appreciation of the craft.

Established in 1908, the Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council has long championed excellence in design and making. Its annual competition celebrates innovation, mastery, and dedication to craft – recognising individuals and teams whose work represents the very best of our industry today.

"This year’s exhibition is a compelling reflection of the creative and technical brilliance that continues to drive our industry forward. From inspirational apprentice submissions to sophisticated works from seasoned professionals, the breadth and quality on display reinforces the GC&DC’s mission to encourage, stimulate and promote excellence in craftsmanship and design. We hope all who visit feel inspired to pursue and support these values in their own creative journeys."

— John Ball, Chair, Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council

Supported by a distinguished and longstanding group of Patrons and Sponsors – including the Goldsmiths’ Company, the Goldsmiths’ Centre, and Cartier – the 2024/25 Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council Awards received over 550 entries from across the UK.

Spanning both 2D and 3D disciplines, each submission was assessed by an independent panel of industry specialists, who judged the work for its originality, technical excellence, design flair and craftsmanship. The result is a compelling showcase of the skill and creativity thriving within the jewellery, silversmithing and allied trades.

If you’re interested in entering the 2026 competition or would like to learn more about the Council’s work, please visit: www.craftanddesigncouncil.org.uk

Who is the speaker?

Janet Weller BA(Hons) FIPG CIPG graduated from Sir John Cass with a BA (hons) Degree in Jewellery, Silversmithing and Allied Crafts. Apprenticed to Cartier Award winner Simon Coldicott at Theo Fennells and ran Theos workshops for 10 years. Between 1998 and the present, Janet has worked in a part-time capacity for Percy Davies Ltd, The Original Design Partnership with Theo Fennell, Sotheby’s, Sotheby’s Diamonds, and is now Design Consultant for The Cotswold Fine Jewellery Group. She  started her own business, JCW Design in 2000. Janet has won 20 GC&DC Awards Since 2002, including 6 Golds plus 6 sponsored awards, winning the 2D hand rendering prize in 2023 and 2025. Janet was elected as Chair of The Institute of Professional Goldsmiths in April 2024.