Discover the art of pewter casting using the ancient ‘lost wax method’ in this 4 session course.

Experiment with modelling in wax and create an artwork to be cast in pewter metal.

Pewter is a silver coloured alloy which melts at a low temperature and can easily be cast on a gas hob. The pewter we use for this course is lead free and has a high tin content which makes it soft to work and very good for hammering and shaping after it has been cast. Traditionally pewter has been used for cups and plates but it can also be used to cast metal sculptures and is very good for making fine intricate work. It also works well combined with wood or stone.

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, but please be aware that due to the rising costs of pewter try to keep the wax relatively small (eg. the size of a lemon).

Day two

Add casting ‘runners’ and ‘risers’ to your wax sculptures in preparation for casting, then make plaster moulds. These moulds will then be heated to burn out the wax which will leave a negative cavity to be filled with molten pewter.

Day three

Melt and cast molten pewter into your plaster moulds. Allow to cool and then chisel out the casts and clean them up.

Day four

Finish your artwork, polishing, patination, welding and cold working of pewter. This will be followed by instruction on how to set up your own pewter casting works.

It is essential to wear old clothes (preferably boiler suits) and strong footwear (preferably steel-capped boots).

Beginners and those more experienced are welcome!

Basic materials are included. The cost of this course includes 1 kilo of pewter, any additional metal used will be charged at £70 per kilo.

Course cost: £500

Course dates: Saturday 7th, Sunday 8th & Saturday 14th, Sunday 15th November 2026

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

Number of places available: 10

Tutor: Robert Worley (MA, RCA)

Description supplied by the event organiser.