This practical two-day workshop introduces jewellers and small-scale metalworkers to the essential skills of melting, pouring and recycling silver using ingot-making techniques alongside an introduction to metallurgy. Understanding how metal behaves through heating, alloying and reuse is a valuable workshop skill, helping makers work more sustainably and confidently with precious metals.

Across the two days, you will learn how to safely melt scrap silver, pour clean ingots and prepare recycled metal for further processes such as rolling, forging and fabrication. We’ll look at the properties of silver alloys, discuss how heat affects metal structure and explore ways to avoid common problems such as brittleness, cracking and porosity.

With just five participants, the workshop offers plenty of individual guidance in a supportive and focused environment.

What will I make?

During the workshop you will create:

- A series of recycled silver ingots
- Rolled or forged samples made from your own recycled silver
- A collection of technical reference pieces showing both successful and unsuccessful pours

By the end of the two days, you will leave with a better understanding of silver recycling processes, alongside practical samples and techniques that you can continue using in your own workshop.

What will I learn?

This workshop will help you build confidence in:

• Safely melting and pouring silver ingots
• Preparing scrap silver for recycling and reuse
• Understanding silver alloys and metal composition
• The effects of heat, annealing and work hardening on metal structure
• Identifying and avoiding porosity, firestain and cracking
• Correct torch setup, crucible use and safe handling of molten metal
• Preparing recycled ingots for rolling, forging and fabrication

You will also be introduced to metallurgy principles relevant to jewellery making, including:

- Grain structure and how it affects metal behaviour
- The difference between casting grain, scrap and alloyed metals
- How overheating impacts silver quality
- Why recycled metal can sometimes behave unpredictably
- Best practice for achieving clean, workable ingots
- Ways to improve consistency in recycled materials

By understanding both the practical and material side of recycling silver, you’ll gain a stronger technical foundation and more confidence in working independently with metal.

What will happen during the workshop?

The workshop combines tutor-led demonstrations with guided practical work throughout.

Each process will be demonstrated step-by-step before you try it yourself at the bench, with support available throughout the workshop. Exercises are structured progressively, beginning with safe melting and handling techniques before moving on to controlled ingot pouring, metal preparation and working recycled material into usable forms.

There will also be time to ask questions, troubleshoot workshop problems and discuss how these techniques could fit into your own practice.

The atmosphere is relaxed but focused, encouraging careful working, safe habits and growing confidence. With such a small group, you’ll receive plenty of individual guidance throughout the two days.

What skills do I need?

Intermediate & Advanced: For those who have foundation knowledge and experience of jewellery making. Ideal for makers looking to up skill and advance their practice.

If you are unsure if you have the correct level of experience, feel free to email  us for advice. 

What should I bring?

• Reading glasses (if you need them!) 


• Notebook and pen (to take notes)


• Apron to protect clothes


• Basic hand tools from your own tool kit as advised by your teacher.


• This workshop does not include materials and you will need to bring your own silver scrap.

What should I wear? 

Clothes: Casual and not too precious as they may get a bit dusty or damaged.  Avoid long, loose fitting sleeves and anything that might catch or get caught whilst you are working.

Shoes: Casual flat shoes and no open toed sandals in case you drop a tool or something hot on them!

Hair: Tie long hair back.

Who is my teacher?

This workshop is led by Pete Musson, a specialist silversmith and highly experienced educator with over 20 years’ experience teaching Jewellery and Metal at the Royal College of Art.

Pete has lectured and delivered masterclasses internationally, including at Musashino Art University, Hanyang University, Bishopsland Educational Trust and Glasgow School of Art.

Known for his expertise in silversmithing and technical innovation, Pete combines deep practical knowledge with thoughtful mentorship, supporting jewellers to develop precision, confidence and a strong understanding of contemporary jewellery construction

How do I get there? 

Please Note this workshop is in new premises two minutes from FORGE: 2nd Floor, 31 Hatton, EC1N 7TJ.  When you arrive, press the buzzer and we will let you into the building, then make your way up the stairs to the 2nd floor. (There is sadly no lift). 

See contact page for details on public transport and parking.

How do I book?

To book your workshop, simply add the number of spaces you'd like and click Add to Cart, then click on the basket icon in the top right corner to proceed to checkout.

Discount codes can be applied at checkout. 

PLEASE PROVIDE BOTH EMAIL & PHONE NUMBER

Please remember to provide your email address and phone number. We use this information only to confirm your booking, share details about the day, and contact you if any issues arise. Your contact details will not be used for marketing purposes unless you choose to opt in by ticking the box to receive updates from us.

Materials Disclaimer

Please note: Workshop material costs are based on metal prices at the time of organising each session. Due to continual fluctuations in precious metal markets, there may be a small increase in the price of materials. If this occurs, we will contact you prior to the workshop to confirm the difference, which can be settled on the day by card