May 18-22, 2026

The Craft of Formed & Riveted Copper Vessels

with Joe Mross

$1,050

Note: material fee to be determined

at the time of the workshop, depending on market rate of copper

Part of the MASW Higher Education Program

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Workshop Description

Ever imagined making a robust copper planter, cauldron, spittoon, urn, basin, kettle, giant goblet, or sculptural bowl with your own hands? In this immersive workshop, students will learn how to turn flat copper sheet into expressive, fully formed vessels using traditional techniques that date back millennia. Working with hammers, a sandbag, and a simple wooden mold, participants will shape elegant compound curves using just a few essential tools, completing a one-of-a-kind copper vessel with hand-set rivets and a rich patina, an heirloom built to last for generations. Joe will demonstrate the same foundational processes used to fabricate everything from old world whiskey stills to the Statue of Liberty, where copper sheets were hand-formed over wooden bucks and sandbags and joined with rivets. The skills learned will apply to both functional forms and sculptural work, ideal for lighting, vessels, armor, architectural elements, and beyond. Guaranteed to be a riveting experience!

Key Points

  • Riveted copper vessel traditions, ancient to modern
  • Designing your vessel and making a basic perimeter mold
  • Layout planing and shaping strategy
  • Cutting, annealing, and handling copper sheet
  • Forming compound curves with hammers, perimeter mold, and sandbags
  • Panel fitting and overlapping seams for clean assembly
  • Hand-riveting for structural and visual impact
  • Surface cleanup, final patina, and wax sealing

Meet the Craftsperson

Joe Mross

Visit the Full Week Programs page for complete details on our weeklong workshops!

$1,050.00

The Craft of Formed & Riveted Copper Vessels with Joe Mross May 18-22, 2026

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