Pewter
The pewter I use is a very high grade alloy,
lead free and tin rich. Made to BS Spec 5140
(spec A),
it contains tin, antimony and copper. Pewter is considered a valuable metal in its
own right and, because of the high degree of
finish it takes, does not need plating or
painting. Pewter does not tarnish, as silver does, it only
needs buffing with a soft cloth to keep the
finish as it was when purchased. If left
unpolished it will benefit from a wash in
warm soapy water from time to time. If left neglected over time it will need a nonabrasive
polish followed by a rinse in warm
soapy water and to be dried with a soft cloth. Pewter is suitable for use inside or outdoors
as it doesn’t rust. I was born and bred in Jersey in the Channel
Islands. I moved away from the island to London
where I lived and worked for 20 years. I came to Worcestershire with the idea that I
might find a slower pace of life! However now I have found more time to
return to my creativity. What I do
My first foray into the world of creativity was
through woodcarving and sculpture. I
enjoyed starting with an ordinary chunk of
material and making something beautiful
appear from it. I began designing and making patterns for
jewellery as an enjoyable pastime. My pieces
were small enough to work with on the
kitchen table, still gave me the satisfaction of
sculpting and fitted in with work and
available space at the time. They also
provided presents for family and gifts for
friends. In due course I had more time to develop my
craft and this was when I embarked on
courses to further my knowledge and develop
techniques for casting pewter pieces, etching
and working with sheet pewter. Increased demand from friends wanting
something a little different and family
needing personalised presents made me
realise I had a small business opportunity…
and I haven’t looked back since. My designs are popular at craft fairs and also
sell through several outlets in a number of
localities. What to know
All my designs are original. I cast, polish and hand finish each piece
making it unique. I personalise many of my items. I take commissions. I provide demonstrations at venues. I offer one day courses.
