How The Product is Made

The below shows a simplified overview of the production process from raw copper to finished planter.

Step 1

Flat Copper Sheet

Sheets of copper measuring 2 metres by 1 metre are used as the base material for all of the pots and planters. Different copper types are used for spinning and bending. Copper for spinning is described as soft. Copper for the sides of cylindrical pots is much firmer.

Step 2

Cutting

Hand tools are used to cut the larger sheets down to the correct sizes for working. A square and ruler is used to meaure the sheet, a scribe is used to mark a line in the copper and hand 'snips' are used for cutting. Where circles are required for spinning, a pair of dividers is used, much like a pair of compasses.

Step 3

Spinning

The smaller pots, and the base of the larger planters, are 'spun' on a 1950's design spinning lathe. Using large hand tools, much like spoons, the sheet metal is formed over a wooden 'chuck' into the correct three dimensional shape.

Step 4

Rolling

Once cut, flat sheet is made into cylinders using a manual 'slip roller'. Three rollers are adjusted while the sheet copper is continuously fed through the machine until the correct radius is formed.

Step 5

Soldering

Flux is applied to two pieces metal where it is to be joined. The copper is then heated with a gas torch and solder is applied. The solder melts and fuses to pieces of metal together.

Step 6

Beading

A beading machine, also known as a 'Jenny' is used to make a decorative shape at the top of the pot. This serves two purposes, it adds to the aesthetic of the pot but also adds strength to the rim.

Step 7

Polishing

Once the pot or planter is constructed. It is then polished using two cloths and a polishing compound. Shown here is 'Peek' which cleans, polishes and protects the copper. It can be bought from Amazon here if you wish to use the same product.

Copper plant pot Free shipping

Step 8

Shipping

The finished product is carefully wrapped and prepared for shipping. All packaging materials are recycled and sourced sustainably.

Plants in copper plant pot

Step 9

Planting!

Once your new pot or planter has arrived, you can then set to work filling it with your chosen plants. For inspiration, please see the blog posts here or images on Pinterest or Instagram.

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