As well as promoting the traditional origins of handmaking craft skills, this lavish book explains the latest techniques and opportunities that exist for today's designer silversmith. It emphasizes the importance of acquiring fundamental skills as a basis for creating stunning and innovative designs, and illustrates this with fabulous case studies from leading silversmiths. Written by two experienced designer craftsmen, this book takes a fresh and exciting approach by converting craft theory into visual language that informs, educates and inspires you to try a new technique, extend your skills and develop your own personal direction.Topics covered include: a comprehensive account of manufacturing techniques, the cultural and historical context of the making and crafting of silverware, profiles of designers in handmaking, production and technology, and practical hands-on advice throughout, with world-class examples of surface decoration and specialist aspects of the craft. An in-depth and inspirational guide to 21st century silversmithing, aimed at all craftsmen - silversmiths, metalworkers, designers and jewellers. Lavishly illustrated with 594 colour illustrations.