Pewter Casting Course (Sat 9, Sun 10 & Sat 16, Sun 17 Oct 2021)

About

Make a sculpture from wax or clay to cast in pewter. Explore and experiment with new sculpture techniques.

What is Pewter? It’s a silver coloured metal alloy containing over 90% tin with copper and bismuth to strengthen it. Traditionally it would contain lead but the pewter we use is lead free so it’s less toxic to melt and work.

Why use pewter? It’s a soft metal so it’s easy to cut and hammer. It can be cast in parts and easily welded together with a soldering iron. It polishes well to a silvery mirror finish.

What can you make with Pewter? Traditionally it was used for cups and plates but it can also be used to cast sculptures and is very good for making thin intricate work. It also works well combined with wood or stone.

What equipment do I need? Pewter has a low melting point (around 200 degrees) which means it can easily be melted on an electric cooking ring. You can cast your own work without having to use or set up a big metal casting foundry.

This is a 4 day course:

Day one

Experiment with different waxes to make a small sculpture to cast. You may also bring in a wax you have already made to cast

Day two

Add casting ‘runners’ and ‘risers’ to your wax sculptures in preparation for casting, then make plaster moulds burn out in an oven.

Day three

Cast in pewter and clean up your casts.

Day four

Finish your artwork, polishing patination, welding and cold working of pewter. How to set up your own pewter casting works.

It is essential to wear old clothes and strong footwear.

Beginners and those more experienced are welcome!

The cost of this course includes 1 kilo of pewter, any additional will be charged at £32 per kilo

Course cost: £400

Course dates: Saturday 9th, Sunday 10th, Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th October 2021

Course times: 10am-1pm & 2pm-5pm

Number of places available: 8

Tutor: Robert Worley (RCA)