Silversmith's Secrets

'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.

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 are fully illustrated so you can see what's happening at each stage, while 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, no two objects break in quite the same way: the book will teach you how to adapt. Dotted throughout 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.

Book Contents

Introduction 6
Silversmithing 12
Metal guide 16
Hallmarks 24
Tools 30
Planning and preparing 54
Core skills 56
Projects 74
Removing an inscription 76
Fixing findings 84
Fixing a wooden handle 92
Reshaping metal 100
Detaching silver from glass and fixing hinges 106
Repairing filled silver 114
Rounding items and servicing mechanical parts 124
Replacing thin silver 130
Restoring worn or missing components 136
Removing a large dent 142
Repairing a cast statuette 146
Fixing weak connections 156
Afterword 162
Glossary 164
Health and safety 166
Index 168