Flatware manufacturing has always been a specialised skill, learnt by apprenticeship to a “Master” craftsman. The apprentice, when released to practice his trade, would in turn become master to his own apprentice. It is therefore possible to trace chains of masters and apprentices back to reveal a fascinating pedigree of the skills still used today by Fletcher Robinson Ltd.

Why hand-forged flatware is the best

Methods of mass-producing flatware were introduced in the early 19th century but Fletcher Robinson Ltd have always remained faithful to the tradition of hand-forging. The principle reasons for this are the quality and durability of the finished article, which result from the manufacturing process.

The manufacture of a spoon or fork starts with a single bar of silver (known as a slit), which is repeatedly heated and hammered by our “Master Craftsmen” until it takes the shape of a spoon or fork. Silver is a ‘work-hardening’ material, which becomes gradually tougher and stronger as it is hammered and beaten during manufacture. The end result is an item, which will feel like, strung steel and will be far stronger and more durable than its machine-made counterpart.

The hand forging of flatware allows the craftsman to control the shape and form of the metal to put the thickness of silver where it is most needed. For example because the edges of a spoon-bowl require the greatest strength and will attract most wear, they are deliberately thickened during the forging process, which can only be achieved by highly skilled craftsmen.

Because every piece of Fletcher Flatware is hand crafted, it is possible to adapt the shape, size and weight of traditional patterns to suit each customer’s individual requirements. It is also possible to match items to an existing service and even incorporate crests, logos or any other type of decoration.