Silversmith’s Secrets

Description

Award-winning silversmith and BBC television personality Brenton West explains how to diagnose the problem, apply the repair, and make good almost any precious items.

Aimed at anyone who wants to learn the skills necessary to fix, repair or improve household items – whether for sentimental reasons or to turn a profit – the book covers more than a dozen common case studies for you to follow. Ranging from simple to more complex repairs, Brenton tackles re-plating silver, correctly securing metal to glass, polishing, soldering, re-finishing and more on a variety of antique items including table lamps, inkwells, cocktail shakers and hand mirrors.

The case studies in the book are fully illustrated with clear steps for each stage, and handy boxes expand on the specific example, giving Brenton’s expert advice on how to apply the skills learned to your own particular repairs. After all, nothing breaks in quite the same way: the book will teach you how to adapt. Throughout the book are Brenton’s own hard-won secret tips and techniques, so you can share and benefit from his experience.

Brenton talks you through how different metals and materials can be properly identified and safely repaired. The book also includes information on hallmarking, allowing you to assess those second-hand finds accurately. Finally, an extensive tool directory and techniques section give no-nonsense and in-depth advice on the best tools for the job.

‘There are few problems that are insurmountable. If something is broken more often than not it can be repaired. A can-do attitude is essential, or at least a willingness to have a go.’
So writes award-winning silversmith and BBC television personality Brenton West in his introduction to this, his first book. Brimming with in-depth technical information on tools, techniques and metals, Brenton explains how to diagnose the problem, apply the repair, and make good almost any precious items.A silversmith and precious metal expert, Brenton West is happiest when he is making or restoring something. He excelled during his silversmith training at Medway College of Art & Design, and after graduating had exhibitions at The Ritz, Goldsmiths’ Hall and the London Design Centre. He has since gone on to exhibit at many prestigious galleries and museums.

Being well aware of the therapeutic benefits of being creative, Brenton shares his passion for making and craft with as wide an audience as possible through his broadcasting and as a teacher of adults and children. Brenton joined the BBC’s The Repair Shop programme as their specialist silversmith and precious metals expert. Alongside his television and radio work Brenton works on private commissions – all kinds of metals, artefacts and eras. He has been lucky enough to work on notable items created by famous makers and designers such as Faberge, Hester Bateman, Paul Storr, Mappin & Webb, Georg Jensen and Asprey.CN

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