Things You'll Need
Stove
Stove-safe pot
Pewter
Wooden cooking spoon
Pewter may be considered by some to be a cheap or flimsy metal, and it is often considered an inexpensive alternative to true silverware. However, pewter can be beautifully crafted, and is relatively easy to work with. According to artisan blacksmith Darrell Markewitz on his Web site, pewter has a relatively low melting point, so it is easier to work with because it can be melted over a simple fire, or even a stove, without any special equipment. Melting pewter is the first step to crafting beautiful utensils, figures and other metal crafts.
Step 1
Place your pewter pieces into a stove-safe pot or pan.
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Step 2
Turn the heat onto your stove up to its highest setting. Temperatures allowed by stoves vary depending on make and source of heat; your goal is to reach pewter's melting point, which is approximately 465 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 3
Allow the metal to melt slowly. Remember that unlike ice, pewter does not melt gradually. The pewter will not begin to liquefy until the full piece has reached its melting point. Be patient during the melting process. Melting times will vary depending on how much pewter you melt and the temperature of your stove.
Step 4
Gently stir the melting pewter with a wooden utensil. This will help the heat to distribute more evenly.
Tip
Pewter can also easily be melted over a fire, or by using a blow torch.
Warning
Melt pewter in a well-ventilated area with access to incoming fresh air. Some pewter contains a high concentration of lead, which when melted can be toxic to inhale.
Never allow water to splash into your melting pewter. A splash of water can cause a burst of steam to fly up onto your face or hands, potentially causing serious injury.
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