The Cutlers’ Works Visit - Sheffield

Friday 20th May 2022

The following morning, feeling a little green around the gills, a number of us set off on a tour of the Master Cutler’s own family business. It turns out that the Master Cutler, James Tear, is not actually a cutler at all. His business, Thessco, is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of precious metal alloys for use in industry, and we were shown the entire process of the manufacture, and testing, of silver brazing rods and wires. James’s sister, however, is a cutler, and we were also shown around her factory where hand forged silver cutlery is made. An increasing part of her business, however, is the production of (mainly sporting) trophies and medals, and we were privileged to see a number of highly recognisable items. A most enjoyable morning.