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Some of our pewter products
on display in our shop.
What is Pewter?
Pewter is one of the oldest known alloys, dating back to the Bronze
Age. Fine pewter is a tin based alloy consisting of at least 90%
tin and 1 to 3 percent each of silver, copper, bismuth, and antimony.
At ASL Pewter, we use only 100% lead free pewter for all our casting
and turning, making all of our pewter suitable for use with food
or beverage. Historically, lead was added to pewter to extend the
tin and lower the cost, or simply because a supply of tin was not
readily available.
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Does Pewter Tarnish?
Pewter does not tarnish in the same way a copper or silver will.
The metal will oxidize at a slow, even rate, which results in a
rich patina. This patina is considered a valuable enhancement
to your pewter, and shows the piece has been lovingly used.
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How is Pewter Made?
There are several processes that go into the production of a piece
of fine pewter. These processes include casting, turning, and fabricating.
Casting of figural pieces, handles, finials, and other
decorations involves melting the metal and pouring it into molds.
The traditional molds were made from wood, stone, clay, sand,
or metals like bronze or iron. We use these materials as
well as modern molding compounds.
Turning is the art of taking a flat disc of pewter and,
with the use of a lathe, making a bowl, plate, or cup. The flat
piece of pewter is pushed into shape over a wooden form, using
wooden tools.
Fabricating refers to all the ways pewter pieces are assembled
or altered, including soldering, cutting, pressing, polishing,
and finishing. All these processes are done by hand at ASL
Pewter, much as they were accomplished centuries ago.
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Our Unique Designs
All our masters are original to ASL Pewter, and copyrighted
by us. Our designs are all functional and inspired by history, legend,
and culture. At ASL Pewter, we make our own molds using masters
that are carved from a variety of substances. We also make all our
wooden forms for turning, making our plates and bowls unique to
us.
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Care of your Pewter
After each use, wash your pewter in warm, soapy water,
rinse well and dry it immediately with a soft cloth. Do not
put pewter in the dishwasher or microwave. Pewter dishes cannot
be used over an open flame or in the oven. With this simple
care, your pewter will give you years of use and enjoyment.
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