JUNE 9th-AUGUST 15th, 2025

 

Go from where you are to where you want to be.

You may not know how to do this–yet. The GRS Focus Program is a 9-week study track designed for entry-level bench artists. With just a desire to learn, you can immerse yourself in focused study and emerge with working experience and marketable skills in engraving or stone setting. Three dynamic GRS Training Center courses and custom-tailored periods of study allow you to develop and hone your newly acquired skills, unlocking your potential for the future.

Why should I choose the Focus Program?

 

 

 

For 30 years, the GRS Training Center has been a place of learning for bench artists.

The Focus Program expands our tried-and-true training methods into 9-week learning tracks that provide a jump-start to your career in hand engraving or stone setting.

 

 

 

A focused environment for growth.

Transform your passion into skill through carefully crafted 9-week learning tracks in hand engraving or stone setting. Step into a distraction-free classroom where your artistic vision can thrive, dedicating yourself to 40 hours of immersive learning each week, complemented by optional studio hours for those wanting to push their boundaries even further.

 

 

Benefit from multiple instructors’ knowledge.

Ben Bentvelzen (Stone Setting) and Lee Griffiths (Hand Engraving) will be your lead instructors for the program. They will partner with and guide you through the program, providing valuable feedback and custom-tailoring the study weeks to help you reinforce your new skills.
You will learn from multiple instructors, enhancing the depth and breadth of the learning experience, and offering a richer, more dynamic educational environment. GRSTC instructors are top professionals who are active in their fields and have spent a lifetime mastering the techniques they are excited to share with you. You will gain a well-rounded understanding, gain exposure to diverse ideas, and prepare for the complexities of the real world.

 

 

 

Pursue your goals alongside other passionate artisans.

The Training Center is designed for individual attention in an enjoyable, small-group environment where collaboration flourishes. Work alongside other artisans as they also pursue their goals through learning. Discover camaraderie in working to gain skills and overcome obstacles. Our students come from around the world, bringing skills and knowledge that enrich your experience. The GRS Training Center is more than a classroom where innovative techniques are shared. It is the beginning of new friendships, an invigorating setting for artistic achievement, and a significant part of your creative journey.

 

Fully equipped with everything you need.

Each classroom in the GRS Training Center contains every tool needed to get you started. Your workbench will be fully equipped with top-of-the-line GRS tools, including the GraverMach® AT, multiple handpieces, Leica A60 Microscope with stand, a vise or BenchMate, rotary tools, and the GraverHone® VS Sharpening System. You will also receive tool packets that will contain the gravers, QC tool holders, and more. These packets are yours to take home.

Five 55-inch televisions display the instructor’s techniques in real-time, making every lesson an engaging visual experience. Each classroom also has copiers, grinding stations, light tables, and more available to help meet the demands of each class.

Our third classroom offers even more specialized equipment. It features two large fabrication areas, a 50-ton press, four soldering stations, polishing equipment, a pulse arc welding system, and more.

These 9-week study tracks are a commitment to chasing your dreams.

Choose your course of study:
In the hand engraving track, you will explore this timeless art, gaining skills that will allow you to add custom embellishments to everything from jewelry to knives, guns, or motorcycle parts. In the stone setting track, you will learn various techniques for setting stones in many types of jewelry, including rings, pendants, bracelets, and more.
JUNE 9-13

Basic Metal Engraving Course

with Lee Griffiths

Basic Stone Setting Course

with Mitchell Lurth
JUNE 16-20 | JUNE 23-27
Reinforce what you learned in the basic course. Lead instructors will review your work and provide constructive feedback to help you further develop your skills.
JUNE 30-JULY 4
Optional week due to Independence Day holiday. Ben will be available if you wish to use the classroom to study during this week.
JULY 7-11

Lettering for Engravers Course

with Sam Alfano

Bridal Settings Course

with Adam Guzzon
JULY 14-18 | JULY 21-25
Continue practicing and refining the skills you have acquired so far.
JULY 28-AUGUST 1

Scroll Design and Engraving Course

with Jake Newell

Intro to Pavé Course

with John Sorich IV
AUGUST 4-8
Begin to integrate all the techniques you have learned throughout the program.
AUGUST 11-15 | CAPSTONE PROJECT
During the last week of the program, you will collaborate with your instructor to design and create a capstone project that showcases your new skills and reflects your personal goals. The culmination of everything you have learned, your work on this project will provide you with a valuable portfolio piece.

 

We understand that committing to this journey is a significant investment of your time and resources. However, the Focus Program offers unparalleled value, equipping you with a solid foundation and the skills necessary for a thriving career in stone setting or hand engraving. Embrace this opportunity to transform your passion into a profession and invest in the future you deserve.

The Focus Program is the first step towards a fulfilling and inspired artistic journey!

Check out our travel guide for valuable information about lodging, travel, and Emporia itself!