What my students have graciously said:
"If anyone has a doubt sign up for one class and you will wish you could do them all...wonderful explanations and guidance. Something Sublime is wonderful..."
Rings for Rookies:
Diane: I am really proud of myself that I was finally able to overcome the solder hump. I have tried to solder for years without success and along comes Deryn Mentock, and Voila! I finally got it. Deryn, I never use the word "awesome" because I think it is the most overused word in the universe but you are awesome!
Karen: In true Deryn Mentock fashion, these videos and instruction are primo!!! I encourage anyone who is on the fence to LEAP! You will not regret it!
Denise: TY!! You rock Deryn Boyd Mentock. I think I jumped a skill level! Thanks for connecting all the dots... you are a fabulous teacher and trust me I've taken a lot of classes!!
Patricia: Deryn Mentock is such a great teacher! She has left nothing out and makes it all easy to understand! I just keep on watching and doing!
Nancy: A mazillion (I made up that word) things that I have struggled with that you have great tips on. And I am only thru lesson 3!
Kristie: I binge watched almost all of the videos yesterday . I love your teaching style and my head is exploding with ideas and information. Thank you for such a great online class!
Cathy: Deryn, I am partially through the videos. I just want you to know that this class is wonderful. Even though I have had ring classes with you in person, it is nice to be in a relaxed environment without the pressure and time constraints so I may absorb and digest the process. Thank you for offering this class. I really am enjoying it like I do with the other classes with you.
Mona: I am loving the videos and they are very detailed and in depth. I am always so pleased with the class materials and the level of instruction.
Melanie: AND!!!! This is one of the best online classes I have ever taken. It is so beautiful, so thorough!
Link Love:
Anonymous: I had to let you know how much I loved this class. I am elderly, and my fingers aren't as nimble as they used to be, but I did all the classes. I made a copper sample for each class, noted the gauge and some notes on paper and put all in separate baggies. Surprisingly, the Egyptian coil was my favorite... The samples ended up the same size and linked together just fine! ( a few yelps of happiness) A great teacher you are!!!! Can't wait to make a bracelet! I learned so much and really had so much fun doing it all! I love seeing all you do and am so glad you have online classes for us that can't travel. Thank you so much again.
Karen: I wanted to say that once again I have learned so very much. Thank you Deryn! I took this class because I really wanted to understand the right way to work with wire and create some pieces that could accent and enhance my work. My style (for lack of a better word) is quite different from yours, but I never fail to learn so very much that my pieces are beginning to look like more than a bare beginners work. I have so far only made the sample pieces from class and have not completed a wearable piece from this class session, but I know when I get back to the work table I will feel so much more confident with the wire. I just have to add that over the weekend I reviewed a lot of online wire work from many artists to see how they incorporate this in their work. A huge red flag started waving and I had to laugh! Here I am knowing nothing at all about wire a few months ago but from your class and generous instructions I really started to zoom in on work that was not as good as it should have been. Those short comments you often make in class...those little things stick with me and I will know when I start a project that there really is a quality of work level you have made sure to include. Thank you so much!!
Stephania: I love the option of the on line classes and, in my experience, Deryn does an exceptional job! This is my third class with her and I have learned so very much in each!
Evia: Just wanted you to know that I learned so much taking this class! There are so many links to play around with. Thank you for your generosity in sharing with us. Looking forward to your next class!
Patty: I'm still a beginner at wire work but now I'll progress with confidence and know how to make my work look more professional.
Deena: Just wanted to say thanks for a great class. I believe this is my 4 th class of yours and I am always impressed with your instructions and am always inspired by your beautiful creations. I'm planning to buy your book. Thanks again for a great class...looking forward to signing up for more!
Karen: Many thanks Deryn for all the wonderful information! I learned so much yet again. I am also learning a lot about the tools I have and what to replace and what to keep!! My "swirls and curls" are finally beginning to take shape too. Loved this class!
Bloom Bangles:
Lori: I have your book ~ and love it ~ I would love to take another one of your classes! This past class, Bloom Bangles was awesome. You're a talented, awesome teacher!! Great instructions!!
Lena: Another great class. well organized. so easy to follow each step. so much fun to watch and learn. plus, as an added bonus, the results are beautiful!!!!
Shuku: I adore your classes Deryn.This was absolutely wonderful - new skills and challenges, which I love!
Jan: Great class! Excellent video lessons! Easy to follow directions! You are an amazing instructor! Thanks so much!
Linda: I loved it Deryn! I specifically like when I learn something from you in a class, you encourage us to branch out and use what we've learned in our own personal styles. Signed up for your next class. #4 here I come!
BJ: I had never taken an online class and I was absolutely blown away. The directions were easy to follow I love the way it was shown step by step.
Robin: I took my first online class a few years ago -- Boho Hoops -- and have taken quite a few since then with Deryn, and other jewelry artists. I'm never disappointed with the quality of Deryn's videos & instruction. The segments so well organized that I can find exactly what I'm looking for when I need a repeat viewing of specific technique. I loved the project & tend to prefer project oriented classes. I didn't have to spend as much time taking notes & rewatching the videos so actually made more components even though my free time was limited due to work.
Artisan's Daybook:
Jean: This is one of the best, meatiest, and most inspiring classes (online and real life) I've ever taken...and I have taken a lot.
Erin: I can't tell you how much fun I had making my artisan's book. I loved every minute of it and boy oh boy did I spend hours and hours on it. You are an AMAZING teacher!
Anonymous: Thank you for putting together the DREAM course in my opinion. There are so many workshop/courses out there that have either been misleading, disappointing or I realized the content was beautiful but lacking.... Your course description was like a breath of fresh air, I knew I HAD TO HAVE IT. I think I have taken enough online courses to see you are the real deal and I am very much looking forward to taking another. Thank you for your time and efforts to feel it was important enough to share yourself online.
Lori: I didnāt jump on board at first with your journal class as Iām not a drawer or painterā¦or didnāt think I was! Youāve opened a whole new world out there for me with all kinds of journals that I didnāt know about!! Once again, I say āthank youā for yet another wonderful class. Iām not sure if Iāll ever be able to take a class in person, but I know I will always have your online classes to learn from. THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!!!
Cathy: This class you have created was very creative. I just loved it... This class is very inspirational. And it is obvious to me that your heart and soul was put into this class. And I have to tell you that you have touched me with this. Thank you.
Michelle: This class was amazing!!! Thank you, Deryn for another wonderful class! It has been extraordinarily inspirational.
Sandee: Beside the fact that this is the most beautiful journal I have ever seen, here are some more specific reasons why this is my most enjoyable online class, in this genre, thus far:
1. I am a antique and thrift shopper and my eyes are bigger than my stomach and I buy all this stuff I am going to "use" one day. This class has given me many different ideas and ways I can use my inventory. Finally!
2. This class has pushed me outside my box.
3. I believe this will be a great "start point" in making my own baubles and jewels for future journals. I would never in a million years would have thought to attempt this, had it not been for this class.
4. Your class offers content I have never seen before.
5. I love the colour wheel lesson. I have gained knowledge, without having to go to art school, to learn a valuable lesson in "colour theory".
6. I am also a collector of art supplies and I have enjoyed the generous amount of mixed media techniques and how to apply them in the art journal.
7. You are a great teacher, I love your calm style and step by step teaching style. You know what the students may be asking in advance and address the foreseen questions, which is a quality of a great teacher.
In summary, your class is like a wonderful soup full of many yummy ingredients with exotic spices added in. This is class is no ordinary class, we have learned, bookbinding, jewellery making, colour theory, mixed media techniques, sewing, and much more, all rolled up in one amazing class. It is like a great book that you never want to end!
Nancy: Thank you Deryn for the wonderful class, I enjoyed and learned so much in your class and great inspiration from all the ladies. You can tell you really love what you do.
Laurie: This was a very amazing class, thank-you so much Deryn, you are truly a gifted artist and teacher, I love your classes and look forward to taking more. Thank-you again for all of the loveliness.
Bezel Bootcamp:
Sandy: TAKE THIS CLASS. . . this class literally baptized me into another whole facet of technique. . . I love resin, and Deryn's teaching is the best. You will learn how to do this on a very professional level if you decide to take it!
Lois: If I were there with you, I'd have to give you a hug and place an apple on you work station!! Never thought I could soak up so much knowledge just watching your videos but it's all in who the teacher is, how she presents it and I'm sure the boots helped also ha ha. Deryn, thanks so much for making my Virginia winter so darn bearable Love ya !
Dawn: This is my third class with Deryn and the reason is her thorough teaching and sharing. She leaves no stone unturned in helping students learn. I hope to some day take an in person class from her.
Maureen: This class was a game changer for me! I am sooooo novice to the craft...but this class gave me the comfort level to use a torch and solder etc etc! (Not to mention the beautiful people I had the good fortune to connect --with whom I still keep in touch!) take this class!!!!! Deryn you demystified the fear of the torch for me and now I am excited to hit the ground running!
Karen: I'm so thankful I signed up for your class. I can't believe just how much it's helped me....your techniques, tricks, and wisdom. I've taken copious notes and know I will be referring to them time and again. Your instruction is fabulous, as are the quality of your videos!
Carol: I really enjoyed Bezel Bootcamp and am so happy that I signed up. It was worth every penny and more.
Diane: Could this class get any better??????
Julie: I couldn't have said it any better about what this class has done for me! It has been absolutely wonderful and exactly what I needed to get out of my comfort zone and also to sort of set myself in a design/style direction. I've been fumbling around and have never been really excited and thoroughly happy with anything I've made. This class has pushed me to really step out - I've had so much fun creating the "challenge" pieces and I am really happy with my finished products. The videos and techniques are awesome! I have learned so much and also now know where my weaknesses are and what I need to work on. I am so looking forward to what you will be offering in the future and kicking myself for missing your other classes!!! :)
Thank you so much Deryn you are one awesome teacher!!!
Pollyanna: This course is at a very high level of learning. It goes way beyond merely copying a project or even learning new techniques (although there are lots of good ones here). Deryn is masterfully pushing us to learn some quite complex ideas & principles and apply them in our own unique ways!
Stephanie: Just getting my things collected and watched the videos; they are fabulous. I think this is better than the group classes. No trying to see over or through other people. You show us exactly what we need to see. I love to see your thought process on the first necklace. The bullet casings are great, I have kept a few of my own and always thought I could use them for jewelry and now I know how. Thanks for all!
Sheri: I just want to take this moment to say how much I love your class and tell you that you are a fantastic teacher. I appreciate so much everything you have shared, all of your special superpowers and secrets, and all of the time and work you put into your online classes. I am so impressed. I have learned so much. Thank you, Deryn!
Janis: Just wanted you to know the Art of Closure and the Alchemy of Objects classes, and the 3 days with you at Art in Soul in Stamford, has truly turned my artistic visions around. Last month after reviewing the challenges on your objects of alchemy class, I started to redesign and define what stories I want my jewelry to tell. I cannot stop making jewelry - such a different and pleasing look! New work is big, bold and statement pieces with a bend of the vintage sparkle and textured metals. Thanks for sharing your talent and passion for what you do!
Leigh: Thank you so very much, Deryn! This class was truly amazing. I always feel like my design and level of craftsmanship grow when I am pushed out of my comfort zone. You have managed to do this for me. You are a wonderful teacher!
Melissa: You are a wonderful teacher. I was a professional trainer for 10 years before I became a stay home mom and began my business in jewelry making. It was a natural transition for me to teaching jewelry. It is rare to find REALLY good instructors and you would certainly be among them.
Robin: You will love this class! I've taken many of Deryn's online classes but this was my favorite.
Sheri: Your class and this chat is one of the best things that has happened for me in a long time!! I love it! I especially love the way you share of yourself and your skills. You are a great teacher!
The Art of Closure:
Marianne: I've waited a long time to find my first class, and I'm so glad yours was the class I found. Your videos were unhurried - you took your time to explain techniques and offered ideas to help us find our creative expressions. I've enjoyed every moment - taking COPIOUS notes, practicing for hours, while watching your videos over and over and over, And I've found a new confidence in my own personal design expression. When I practice a design or technique over and over my own creative process eventually takes hold and that is really exciting!
Mary: Your class has been a super wonderful experience for me. I never imagined I could like any class this much. So Kudos to you for being such an attentive and clear teacher. I can't say enough good things about it.
Susan: I have taken three of Deryn's on-line classes with much gratitude for her unique teaching ability unlike any other instructor. She is a true treasure ......... so generous and never holds back her knowledge. It sets her apart from others. I have been so fortunate to have found her and she has opened my eyes to a whole new world. Her blog is an education in itself. It opens one's mind to so many new experiences whether it is travel, nature ,instruction, life experience, history, new experiences, etc. She passes it on to us all. Words seem to flow so easily in her writings and I have found many times much Peace and joy. Deryn,....Thank You for all you selflessly contribute to so many of us.
Lori: I just had to send you an email to let you know how much I love the class! The classes (you) have exceeded my expectations. My husband saw me watching the videos last night (the first time I really got a chance to sit down and view), and he asked me if they were better or worse than I thought they would beā¦I told him they were definitely better than what I had hoped for! The instruction and the content are exactly what I was looking for and lacking in my jewelry making. Iāve never had a better teacher.
Candy: This has been an amazing class with wealth of information Deryn! As a metal craft novice I am so thankful that I was able to learn from you, an absolute pro and wonderful teacher. The cost and value comparison is off the charts, along with your effort to make this class approachable for all skill levels. I needed closure for sure! Thanks again!
Tracy: You won't be sorry you signed up. These are clear concise videos with wonderful step by step instructions simple enough for anyone to follow.
BoHo Bliss:
Sharon: Just want to say that I am compelled to tell you that you have influenced me greatly as a jewelry artist. Your work is profound and your kindness from day one has been beyond generous. You have taught me with the two classes I have taken with you that the more I learn, the less I know, and I can always learn more, and perfect more. Thank you Deryn.
Heidi: This is my 3rd class with Deryn and she's the best out there. Considering the amount of info packed into these videos, this is the best bang for the buck there is. Plus, you can watch them in your jammies at 2AM, which is what I am doing. Who needs sleep when you can play with fire and pound on metal?
Susan: THANK YOU! All I can say is that this class has been the BEST!!!!!!!! The best I've ever taken and can't wait for the next. What a bang for the buck! There is not one thing more that you could have showed or taught us on these wonderful earring lessons. What a complete job you've done to make learning easy and fun. You packed in Sooo much information and never tired in answering any of our questions. The class felt very personal and to boot you gave us examples with your personal flicker, website and any other opportunity you could think of. Replaying the video's made it easy to fine tune our endeavors. You went out of your way and it seems to me that it was easy for you because you are so generous with all of your knowledge. So sharing. Very rare. You left no information out. One can easily see that you love your art profession and it radiates energy from within you and gives such confidence to all of us. God bless you. You are a "gift" my friend.
Cara: These classes are fantastic!! I wasn't sure that I would be able to make these earrings- but I am sure I can now. You have made them very accessible. I am so excited and these would make terrific gifts. Although you don't need to have done The Build Zone to make these, I am so glad I did that course because it truly is the foundation for most jewelery projects. Many thanks!
Jan: You've opened up a whole new world of creativity for me between The Build Zone and this class, I just love what I'm learning! You seem to answer every question I would have before I even send it to you! I'm thinking but what about this or that, and like a little miracle, you start answering it!Thanks so much, Deryn, the videos are looking great! I have to say these are the best classes I've taken on line and I've taken a lot of them!
Susan: Your manner and the kind way you are with us makes us feel as if we are considered your good friend. You're sooo nice! This class has been a real treat for me and you made it so easy.
Beth: I cannot believe that prior to this class, I had never even made my own ear wires. Now I would never even think about buying a pair of ear wires to use on my own hand made jewelry. What a difference a few months makes!
The Build Zone:
Anonymous: I have had the opportunity to take two on-line classes from Deryn in the last six months and have learned so much. Her Build Zone class teaches you how to execute techniques you may have done for years but she teaches you how to perform them with QUALITY. My wirewrapping skills improved by about 75%. She teaches how to design jewelry, which is not something that is often available in normal class offerings. If you have a chance to take this class, jump at it. I highly recommend her online classes and if you can get a class she teaches in person, jump at the chance.
Rita: Thanks for the wonderful videos. I have continued to have trouble doing my wire wrapping even after carefully watching other teachers do it, but in just watching your video I was able to see what I was doing wrong and correct it. It makes soooo much difference. This course would be worth it to me if it was just for that =) but it just continues with each video. Thank you for tailoring this wonderful class the way you have.
Rainy: So many tiny little details that I had no idea about, but are making the biggest difference in the quality of my work. In just two weeks I'm doing much better stuff - it's more polished, the finished details are better, it's just all around good stuff you've got in the videos. This class was a godsend!
Heidi: To be able to learn great stuff, without having to shell out for transportation, lodging, etc⦠is priceless and well worth the cost of the class. I think it's against the law in several states and many countries to have this much fun!
Beth: Deryn, this class has been so wonderful and I thank you so very much for putting it together in such an organized and professional way. You are a class act, a talented artist and a major source of inspiration. I could not have asked for more in how you presented and delivered the material. Your videos and your web site are very organized and easy to navigate. Your class got me so motivated and inspired that I spent 6 hours last Saturday reorganizing my studio! I have made several necklaces in the class using your techniques. The info on the steel wire was worth the price of admission. Now awaiting all my on-line deliveries so I can continue on with you in the Towers and Turrets class. I look forward to future workshops with you. Thank you Deryn and thank you classmates.
The Merry Men of Winter: