About Our Pewter
CONTENTS:
- 92% Tin
- 6% Antimony
- 2% Copper
CARE:
Our pewter is safe for foods and beverages and with a minimum amount of care, may be passed on to generations. Pewter should be washed and dried as soon as practical after use to avoid possible staining caused by certain foods and beverages. Pewter polishes, scouring powder or fine steel wool may be used to maintain the finish, should staining or scratches occur. While our pewter is dishwasher safe, we do not recommend dishwasher use due to other elements that your pewter may come in contact with which may cause staining or pitting.
CAUTIONS:
Do not heat or cook in pewter, it will cause damage. Do not store beverages or foods in pewter that contain natural acids such as milk, juice, etc., as they may cause staining or pitting to your pewter piece.
HOW OUR PEWTER IS MADE:
- SPINNING
-
Flat discs of pewter are clamped into a lathe against a wood or metal form called a “chuck.” A hand-spinning tool is then pressed against the turning disc with a series of carefully executed sweeps and movements to turn the pewter down over the chuck to form the desired shape.
- CASTING
-
Molten pewter is poured into a bronze mold through a channel called a “Spru” or “Gate” and allowed to cool until solid or in some cases, is poured out at the proper time to create a hollow item such as a spout. Once the metal is “chilled, the mold is opened and the casting is removed. The cast then has the spru cut off, parting marks removed and is polished and fitted for assembly.
- ASSEMBLY
-
As all the various pewter parts are handcrafted, each piece is carefully filed, drilled, shaped, burnished or ground to assure a perfect fit. The parts are then soldered together with a jeweler’s torch, using great care not to melt the piece and to assure a flawless joint.
- FINISHING
-
Once the piece has been completed, it is then carefully polished and buffed by hand with a cloth wheel to achieve the desired luster.