The Value of Scrap Silver: From Waste to Workshops

suzanne2902
Oct 14
3 min read

Updated: Oct 16

We often get asked what we do with the scrap silver that comes from our classes and our answer is that NOTHING goes to waste. We recycle and repurpose where we can and one of our latest ways to use it is to deliver free workshops to patients at the East Lancashire Hospice.

Scrap metal can be melted and repurposed a number of ways, and it is something that we encourage our term time students to explore. Using our range of tools, we are able to roll the metal back into sheet form, roll and draw into different shape and size wire, use for sand casting and even for what we refer to as "messy play" for adults. This involves tipping molten metal into tins of random objects, like; chickpeas, coffee beans, black peppercorns and even just into water. All of which creates beautiful organic shapes and textures.

Before we start the journey of recycling, we have to ensure that we cover a few things. We test metals if needed. If they come in with a hallmark, this isn't necessary as it has already been tested and stamped by an Assay office.

We clean our scrap and ensure that there is no solder or other contaminants on the material before melting in a crucible and tipping into a "Skillet" or "Ingot Mould".

We can even go as far as collecting silver dust! Yes, this can be used too! Without complicating things too much, anything that isn't officially collected will likely be refined at a later date. Anything that has come into contact with precious metals (even our hoover bags) go into a huge "lemmel bag" and this is sent off when it reaches a certain weight.

However, going back to recycling back at the studio, we are able to use our materials to give back to the local community. We were introduced to the team at the East Lancashire Hospice and we just knew we could do some good and give our time to such a good cause. We know all too well how important making lasting memories can be and we also know how taking time to do something creative can be good for our mental wellbeing, all things that fit so well with the Hospice and their purpose built creative space.

These workshops have allowed us to provide time for patients to spend time with loved ones and create a memorable keepsake.

These workshops have been a hit amongst patients and staff at the Hospice (who we all agree deserve some creative time too!)

Founder of the North West Jewellery School, Suzanne Pattinson said: "It is easy to get lost in the day to day running of a business but when one of our tutors took me to visit the East Lancashire Hospice I just knew that we had to do something. We could have gone down the fundraising route but I knew that our impact needed to be more personal and hands on.

"I am so pleased we have been able to build this relationship with the Hospice and we hope to give more lasting memories to more patients and their loved ones."