Complete Metalsmith, Professional Edition 
asked by maxwell on November 26, 2006 2:40 AM
Spiral-bound to lie flat, and handsomely packaged with a rigid fabric cover and plastic band to hold sketches and notes, this information-packed technique source book is on every professional metalworker's must-have list. Filled with drawings and charts, it goes into incredible depth on every crucial topic: materials, tools, shaping, surfaces, joining, color, finishing, casting, stones and stonesetting, chains and clasps, and findings and mechanisms. Need details on bench accessories? Find out about bench pins and how to use them, squares, knives, scrapers, sanding boards, pliers racks, and more. Want to know about gems? A Gem Summary Chart gives the name, colors, cuts, hardness, and heat sensitivity of the top 50-and that's just the beginning. It's practically required reading for professionals!
Reviews
A great wealth of information on metal working. There is a technical discussion about the physical properties of various metals, what makes them soft or hard, alloys, melting points, etc. Information on electroplating, shaping metals, joining metals, welding, casting, etching, patinizing. There are many arts and techniques introduced, such as wire pulling and metal clays. This book would be particularly useful to someone interested in metal sculpture or jewelry making. A nice reference book.
reviewed by officefan on November 27, 2006 11:07 AM
This is the best introductory metalsmithing reference book that I have come across so far. McCreight uses basic language and simple images to build understanding of everything from tools to wax casting and includes useful element facts from melting point to purity expectation in an accessible way. The Complete Metalsmith works well as in establishing the base steps for projects and is a essential tool in my little workshop.
reviewed by steelers on November 28, 2006 4:37 PM
The book is well presented and easy to access with information covering all aspects of jewelery making. it has loads of pictures which make the difficult concepts understandable. Good book for beginners and as a reference book.
reviewed by bugger on November 29, 2006 5:19 PM
This book is a wonderful overview of most of the techniques of metalsmithing. The professional edition is sturdier for the most part than the older edition the book is designed to lat flat on the bench it is obvious it was designed by someone who designs functional objects for a living. It is the first book I recommend to anyone getting into metal work, from blacksmithing to jewelry making. It is a definite must-have and a classic of its kind. This said, if you get into any one technique more, specialty books are helpful, but this is the best overview out there. I dont give five stars often but this was womderful.
reviewed by literary on November 29, 2006 7:33 PM
