This is a very interesting discussion. I do teach on occasion and
have trained many model makers,mold makers, casters etc… in my day.
My Suggestion is this… If you do not want the item copied in
class, then don’t use it as an example for teaching purposes.
Students learn technique and processes easiest by first copying, then
mastering technique. The test for mastering a technique is to make an
original piece using the techniques you have taught as a teacher.
So, does it not make sense to have class room examples of what you
want the student to do and have them accomplish the designs you have
chosen first…Then, they master the process by producing their own
design to show their proficiency.
If the design being taught is complex, this becomes even more
important for the students future capabilities.
As a professional model maker, We ( as a profession) or, I ( as a
model maker) have to take a customers hand drawn design or computer
art and make this design directly in metal or carve the original in
wax… and it has to be as accurate as possible so it can be
reproduced in production or as a one -off original. Jewelers have the
same challenge put to them in good stores all the time.
In any case, it is neccessary to learn the technique of copying a
design /style from a teacher. Eventually, you are going to have a
customer approach you with their original drawing and say… I want
you to make this for me… Thats when you are going to find out
that it is not easy to create someone elses design for them and make
it precisely as they want it.
I would suggest that during the teaching process, the teacher make
it understood that copying other peoples designs for the purpose of
selling them on your own is not ethical and is frowned upon by others
in the field.
This is only my opinion so, use what you wish from these thoughts.
Daniel Grandi Racecar Jewelry Co. Inc.
We do model making, casting and finishing in many types of gold, silver,
pure silver, deox sterling, brass, bronze and pewter.
Tel: 401-461-7803