Introducing the Ancient Technique of Wax Carving: Tips & Insights
One of the jewelry-making techniques I truly love is wax carving - a timeless method that finds resonance in today’s bold and expressive designs. Wax carving brings me a sense of creative freedom, allowing me to shape my ideas and bring the piece to life with each subtle carve. It’s a technique I embrace wholeheartedly, whether I’m crafting gender-neutral pieces that reflect my aesthetic, designing custom pieces inspired by your vision, or leading workshops to share this craft with others.
Today, I invite you into this world, as I pass along my best tips for working with wax, insights from years of practice, and a glimpse into what makes wax carving so special.
My first encounter with the wax carving technique
My journey with the wax carving technique began when I was studying Industrial Design at the University of Buenos Aires. One day, while walking through the vibrant neighborhood of Palermo, I stumbled upon a tiny shop that immediately caught my attention. Inside, Juan Vellavsky was showcasing his stunning jewelry pieces—each one a miniature sculpture that seemed to hold an entire story within. Intrigued, I stepped inside, captivated by the intricate designs. The kind saleswoman shared with me the details of the craft, and soon, I learned that Juan would be giving a talk at the university. I eagerly attended, and after the lecture, I approached him to express my admiration for his work. Our brief conversation led to an invitation to visit his workshop the following week.
The experience was nothing short of magical. Juan welcomed me with generosity, and we spent the afternoon together, where he patiently guided me through each step of the wax carving process. He even demonstrated the technique, allowing me to try my hand at sculpting wax for the first time. That day marked the beginning of my journey with wax carving, and I continued to visit his atelier twice a week, assisting him while learning the art that would become my passion. I will be forever grateful for his mentorship and the opportunity to immerse myself in such a profound craft.
What makes wax carving so special?
In this craft, you’re not simply shaping wax - you’re molding a story, a vision that eventually becomes a lasting piece of jewelry. The art of lost wax casting is a technique with a rich history, dating back thousands of years. It was used by the ancient Egyptians and other civilizations across Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Some of the oldest known items made with the wax carving technique are decorative copper pieces from the Nahal Mishmar hoard in southern Palestine, dating as far back as 3700 BC. Other early examples of lost-wax casting range from intricate miniatures and dress pins to life-sized statues and ceremonial jewelry pieces, showcasing the technique's versatility.
At its core, wax carving is about creating a model that will later be cast into metal. Using specialized tools, artisans carefully shape blocks or rods of wax into the desired form. Each stage of the process requires a blend of patience and skill, resulting in a creation that feels as organic as it does intentional. For me, the wax carving process is both meditative and exciting, as I watch an idea come alive.
While modern technologies like CAD and 3D modeling have transformed the world of jewelry design, hand-carving wax models connects makers with the ancient roots of the craft. This time-honored method remains one of the most precise ways to bring intricate designs to life in metal. Even though tools and techniques evolve, the essence of wax carving endures.
What you can create using the wax carving technique
The possibilities with wax carving are nearly endless, especially in the world of jewelry. The method offers precision and detail, making it ideal for elaborate rings, intricate pendants, and statement bracelets. It also allows for texture and depth, whether in creating delicate patterns, smooth surfaces, or even the rugged, organic textures I love. Feel free to browse my ready-to-wear pieces to get a taste of my timeless, gender-neutral aesthetic.
This freedom inspires creativity and experimentation, making each piece one-of-a-kind. The method is particularly well-suited for custom work, as it allows for a level of personalization that brings a client’s vision to life in ways few other techniques can. If you have an idea in mind, I will be more than happy to help you design it and bring your bespoke jewelry piece to life.
The journey of wax carving: from concept to creation
Creating jewelry through wax carving involves several steps, each with its own rhythm and purpose. First, a wax model is sculpted by hand, allowing for freeform creativity and shaping with precision. This is where the design truly begins to take form.
Next, we create a mold that can be used to cast the piece in metal. This involves encasing the wax model in a mold material, which will harden around it. The wax is then melted or burned out, leaving a cavity that will be filled with molten metal, such as silver or gold. This technique preserves every single detail you’ve carved with love into the wax - the lines that tell your personal story and that of your creation.
Finally, the casting is polished and finished, and you’re left with a piece you can wear, admire, and treasure. At this stage, any additional detailing is added, such as engravings or stones.
Tips for working with wax
If you’re trying wax carving for the first time or looking to refine your skills, here are a few of my go-to tips:
Start with a clear design plan: Before diving into carving, sketch your design on paper. Having a clear vision of the shape, dimensions, and details can help guide your carving process and prevent missteps. During my workshops, I teach you the basics of designing on paper and how to translate your design to the wax.
Create guidelines on your wax block: Before you start carving, always create guidelines on your wax block. These guidelines will serve as a roadmap, helping you stay focused and maintain the proportions and symmetry of your design throughout the carving process. Use a jeweler’s compass divider or a fine-pointed tool to lightly mark the guidelines you'll be needing for each step of the process. Having these reference lines will give you a solid foundation and make the carving process more controlled and precise.
Use Layering Techniques for Intricate Designs: When working with complex designs, I recommend starting by carving the base shape first before adding details. This allows you to establish the overall form and proportions of your piece without getting overwhelmed by the finer aspects too soon. Once you're satisfied with the basic structure, you can add details or textures by applying soft wax over hard wax. Use dental tools for precise sculpting and a heat source like an alcohol lamp or a candle to melt the wax gently.
Finish Your Ring with Precision: When it’s time to finish your wax model, take extra care in being as precise and tidy as possible. Even the smallest scratch or texture left on the surface of the wax will be translated to the final silver ring, so aim for smooth, polished surfaces to achieve the best possible outcome. Using fine-grit sandpaper, you can gently refine surfaces, details, and edges to create a seamless look.
Essential tools: While the wax carving process is adaptable, having the right tools makes a noticeable difference. Carving knives, files, dental tools, and sandpaper, are essential for shaping and refining your wax piece. If you’re new to these tools, take a look at our Essential Tools for Wax Carving guide for recommendations on choosing the best equipment.
Each of these tips can help you improve your wax carving skills. I am also always open to give you personalized advice or private workshops, so feel free to get in touch with me, and we can discuss the process of wax carving in more detail.
Is wax carving right for you? How to get started
Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore a new hobby or a seasoned artisan eager to deepen your skills, wax carving can become a cherished part of your creative toolkit. We host regular Wax Carving Workshops at Jose Anglada’s studio, where I guide you through the basics of wax carving, introduce you to the tools and techniques, and support you as you create your first wax-carved piece.
For a more in-depth journey, our Intensive Wax Carving Course offers a deeper dive into practicing and mastering the technique, so that you can create more advanced pieces and take your practice further. Who knows, one day you might even start your own jewelry business.
And if you’re looking to share the experience with someone special, gift cards make a perfect choice for birthdays, anniversaries, or simply as a thoughtful surprise.
Wax carving is more than a jewelry-making technique; it’s a journey into craftsmanship, tradition, and personal expression. Whether you’re carving alongside me in the studio, learning through one of our workshops, or simply enjoying the beauty of handcrafted jewelry, I’m honored to share this passion with you.