The First Cut - Introduction to Hand Engraving Course

Description

Monday April 12th – Friday April 16th

Discover the rewarding art of traditional hand engraving in this welcoming, hands-on beginner course at Griffin & Howe, taught over five days by Master Engraver Chris Rossiter. Whether you are completely new to engraving or looking to build a stronger foundation, this class offers a supportive introduction to the tools, techniques, and skills that make this craft so satisfying.
Working with professional GRS tools and equipment, you will learn how to set up your bench, prepare and sharpen a graver, and develop the hand control needed to make clean, confident cuts. Through guided, practical exercises, you will practice straight lines, curves, borders, basic lettering, and the foundations of traditional scrollwork.
Chris will share his experience and expertise throughout the course, offering individual guidance, helpful demonstrations, and practical solutions to the challenges beginners commonly encounter. You will learn not only how to make the cuts.
By the end of the class, you will have a clear understanding of the engraving process, hands-on experience with professional tools, and a strong foundation for continued practice. Most importantly, you will leave with the confidence and skills needed to keep developing as an engraver and progress to more specialized courses.

About Chris Rossiter
Chris Rossiter has been engraving for over a decade, beginning his formal training in 2014 with a foundational course at GRS under Jake Newell. Committed to continual growth, he pursued advanced instruction nearly every year, studying under renowned Master Engravers including Otto Carter, Lee Griffiths, Brian Powley, and Jim Blair. Their mentorship played a key role in helping Chris earn his FEGA Master Engraver certificate and achieve the personal and professional goals he set early in his career. For the past four years, Chris has brought his skills to Griffin & Howe, where his work reflects a deep respect for tradition combined with technical precision and artistic depth.

About GRS Tools
As part of Glendo LLC based in Emporia, Kansas, GRS® has created the well-known engraving systems such as the original GraverMeister and the GraverMach® AT, GraverMax®, and GraverSmith®, along with the Airtact® touch control unit. GRS also produced the System 3 and the Power Hone sharpening system for engravers. Jewelers around the world use the innovative GRS BenchMate® system holding fixtures for a variety of jewelry work.

About GRS Training Center
The GRS Training Center is more than a classroom where innovative techniques are shared; it’s the beginning of new friendships, an invigorating setting for artistic achievement, and a significant part of your creative journey. No other learning experiences or jewelry making classes provide the same opportunity and guidance. For over 30 years, GRS has pioneered and constantly improved this unique training. The Training Center itself is uniquely designed for individual attention in an enjoyable, small-group environment. Each instructor is chosen for their ability to help you learn more in far less time.

$1,835 per person (plus applicable NJ sales tax).

Please note: accommodation is available on site at Griffin & Howe, subject to availability. Please let us know if you would like to reserve a room in your registration form. On-site meals are also available.