An introduction to 2D hand-rendering skills with the GC&DC and the Goldsmiths’ Centre

The Goldsmiths’ Craft & Design Council (GC&DC), in partnership with the Goldsmiths’ Centre, is hosting a Techniques in Focus online talk for jewellery designers looking for an introduction to hand-rendering 2D designs.

Join goldsmith and award-winning jewellery designer Janet Weller, GC&DC trustee Kathryn Bishop, and the Goldsmiths’ Centre’s Head of Public Programmes Charlotte Dew, for a virtual session that will explore the technique of hand-rendering for jewellery design.

During the seminar, Janet will share how to effectively respond to a design brief, how to assess what is being asked for, and how to develop initial ideas and take these forward into a finished design. In particular, this session will focus on hand-sketching, details, and shading.

Janet will also advise attendees on how to create excellent and effective design presentations that meet the needs of the brief and client. There will be the opportunity to ask questions and join in the conversation.

The talk will run online on 7 July, with tickets available via the Goldsmiths’ Centre website. It is part of the Goldsmiths’ Centre’s Techniques in Focus series, which delves 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.

This 2D hand-rendering session is a collaboration between The GC&DC and the Goldsmiths’ Centre. It complements The GC&DC 2025 Awards Exhibition, housed at the Goldsmiths’ Centre from 2 July to 11 September, showcasing a curated selection of winning entries from this year’s GC&DC awards – the UK’s most prestigious accolades for jewellery, silversmithing, and the allied crafts.

Janet Weller’s designs have won more than 20 GC&DC Awards since 2002, including six Gold awards and six sponsored awards, scooping the 2D hand-rendering prize in 2023 and 2025.

“Being able to host this session is a huge honour, and a chance to share the 2D hand-rendering skills, techniques and tips that I have gathered throughout my career,” explains Janet Weller.

“I look forward to delivering a session that is highly informative, inspiring, and educational, giving attendees a chance to ask questions and feel more equipped and accomplished in their design process.”

John Ball, chairman of the GC&DC, adds: “The 2D design section of the GC&DC Awards is a chance for us to identify new and promising creative talents in UK jewellery and silversmithing, and we hope this session in partnership with the Goldsmiths’ Centre and Janet Weller will inspire a fresh cohort of designers to enter our 2026 edition of the Awards. 2D hand-rendering is a really impactful way to demonstrate ideas and wow clients with beautiful hand-drawn designs.”

In addition to this session, on the afternoon of July 15th, emerging makers are invited to book a slot to take part in the GC&DC’s inaugural Jewellery Feedback Session, hosted at the Goldsmiths’ Centre. Participants will have the opportunity to talk with industry experts and GC&DC judges, Peter Crump, Robin Kyte and Steve Jinks, about an example of finished jewellery they have made, to gain tips, feedback and guidance on the development of their skills, approach and designs going forward.

For more information on the GC&DC Awards and this year’s other competition winners, or to learn more about the Council’s work, visit the GC&DC Website.