Silversmith / Metalworker

The role of metalwork/silversmith designer is closely allied to product design in that the end product must be functional and attractive.

The range of metals used is wide and a few designers produce fine art objects simply for their aesthetic worth. Some work on the restoration of pieces, although this may be possible only after undertaking a specialist course.

For more information, look at the section on Jewellery.

Typical work activities include: annealing metal and silverware to soften the materials for reworking; preparing materials for soldering; and hammering/re-shaping metal and silver articles.

You would also be using items such as ovens, blow torches, punches, pliers, lathes, saws and drills to manipulate materials; and using design knowledge to produce technical plans, blueprints, drawings and models.

Starting salaries can be up to £15,000 a year. Experienced workers can earn between £20,000 and around £50,000.

Earnings for freelance designer/craftworkers vary depending on how successful they are in selling their work.

There are no set requirements for becoming a silversmith/metalworker – skills and experience can be more important than qualifications. However, most have a foundation degree, BTEC HND or degree. You could complete these in various relevant subjects including: jewellery; jewellery design; designed metalwork and jewellery; jewellery and metal design; and 3D design: metals.

For all courses you would need to present a portfolio of your work, and you may be accepted without the usual academic entry qualifications on the strength of this. You should check entry requirements with colleges and universities. 

Talent and contacts are key to getting work, so if you can show that you have design skills and ideas you may be able to develop a career without a qualification.

You can develop relevant practical skills on a variety of courses offered by local colleges. Attending trade fairs and exhibitions is a good way of making contacts and keeping up to date with new trends.