So Ive been really keen on ways beyond just practicing to improve my skills, especially since I value mentorship, and I came across a program nearby that teaches the essentials amongst other things, and seems to have more a focus on benchwork rather than just theory. Its only 4 months and I feel like I could possibly learn a lot from it.

I wonder if people here have any experience with formal education with learning their jewellery making? As opposed to completely self taught. Would you recommend for or against it?

There are also longer programs that are a couple years long, but I do not think I have the funds or time to invest that much into this. Would I be better off using funds for base materials to practice with rather than committing to tuition?

And are apprenticeships existent within the profession?

Just curious as to what people's experience with developing their craft is, and what they think the pros and cons are of each method of learning!