Silverware Artisans and Workers

A part-time or summer job in a silverware factory can provide you with an excellent opportunity to learn about the silverware industry. However, with relatively few plants in the United States, such jobs are difficult to obtain. For this reason, you may want to consider a position at a metal manufacturing or machining company. Such a position can offer you the experience you'll need when you're ready to look for a job in silverware manufacturing.

If you're interested in silverware design or silversmithing, sampling similar activities will allow you to get a taste of some of the skills you'll need. While in school, take classes in ornamental metalwork, jewelry making, woodworking, ceramics, sketching, and drafting. If these courses are not offered, check to see if your local community college or art center offers more specialized art classes.

You can also read professional magazines about art, design, manufacturing, and industry-specific topics to become familiar with the field and keep abreast of new products, trends, and developments. Handmade Business (https://handmade-business.com/), for example, is specifically aimed at craftsworkers, while Silver Magazine (https://www.silvermag.com) focuses on the field of silver and the products made from this material. MetalForming Magazine (https://www.metalformingmagazine.com) and other trade publications may also be of interest. In addition, you might want to contact Brynmorgen Press (https://www.brynmorgen.com) for books on metalsmithing.