Two Bench References, Different Jobs
If you are building a library of metalsmithing references, Tim McCreight's titles are a natural starting point. The Complete Metalsmith, Student Edition and Practical Casting, Revised Edition are both respected studio resources, but they serve different purposes. One is a broad survey of bench skills; the other is a deep dive into a single process. Knowing what each book covers will help you decide whether you need one, both, or neither.
What Each Book Covers
- The Complete Metalsmith, Student Edition: A general reference covering techniques, processes, and tools for nearly every task a metalsmith can learn. It includes guidance on bench tools, stone setting, casting techniques, and more. The book uses visual presentation, condensed text, and soft colored drawings to make information easy to access. It is designed for beginning artists but contains content relevant to all skill levels.
- Practical Casting, Revised Edition: Focused specifically on casting. Early chapters cover lost wax centrifugal casting, followed by direct methods, moldmaking, and foundry casting. The book uses clear explanations and descriptive illustrations to bring complex techniques within reach of hobbyists and metalsmiths at any level. It has set the standard in the field since 1986 and is now in full color.
Key Specifications at a Glance
- The Complete Metalsmith, Student Edition - Tim McCreight: 9" x 6" x 160 pages, full color, plastic cover, spiral binding. ISBN 1-929565-06-2. The compact size and spiral binding make it easy to keep open on the bench while you work. The full-color format and condensed text suit quick reference during a project.
The Complete Metalsmith, Student Edition - Tim McCreight - Practical Casting: A Studio Reference, Revised Edition - Tim McCreight: 6" x 9" (15 x 23 cm), 160 pages, 200+ color illustrations, plastic laminate cover, concealed wire binding. ISBN 978-0-9615984-5-7. The concealed wire binding lies flat on the bench, and the color illustrations are critical for identifying mold materials, burnout stages, and finished castings. The slightly smaller page size still holds detailed diagrams.
Practical Casting: A Studio Reference, Revised Edition - Tim McCreight
Which Should You Choose?
If you are new to metalsmithing or want a single book that touches on most bench skills, The Complete Metalsmith Student Edition is the practical starting point. Its broad scope and beginner-friendly presentation give you a foundation you can build on with specialized texts later.
If your work already involves casting or you plan to add lost wax centrifugal casting to your practice, Practical Casting is the deeper resource. It covers the full casting workflow in detail, from moldmaking to foundry work, with illustrations that explain complex setups.
The two books complement each other. Many metalsmiths keep both on the shelf: the Student Edition for everyday technique refreshers and Practical Casting for casting-specific troubleshooting. Neither book claims to be the complete guide to the other's subject, so your choice depends on where you need the most support.
What the Evidence Doesn't Tell You
The supplied records do not include detailed tables of contents, so the exact depth of coverage for each technique within The Complete Metalsmith is not confirmed. Similarly, while Practical Casting is described as covering lost wax centrifugal casting, direct methods, and foundry casting, the level of detail for each is not specified beyond the chapter descriptions. Neither book includes safety or operating instructions for specific equipment in the supplied evidence. Treat these as studio references rather than equipment manuals.
