I recently got to visit Potter USA in Tucson, Arizona. During the Gem Faire Kevin Potter opened up his shop to the public for tours.
For me it was like Willy Wonka opening up the Wonka Chocolate factory, pure imagination! I hope you hear that song in your head as you look through these images. It was definitely going through mine as we toured through the cavernous shop rooms filled to the ceilings of vintage tools, dies, and machinery.
Kevin has an amazing team working with him. He has created a metal and machine lovers Disneyland!
I want it all!
Kevin is also an accomplished jeweler. He regularly does live videos in his Facebook group while he creates. Usually with dies and wire produced in house.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/1253577991351417/?mibextid=NSMWBT
Everything is ginormous at Potter USA.
A few of the giant vintage presses that are still operational.
We got to watch Vincent roll out some fancy patterned wire. I gotta figure out a way to incorporate some of this awesome wire into my jewelry.
A little background.....
Since 1867, Cranston Wire Company has specialized in producing patterned wire and sheet in various metals, including gold and silver. In 2018 Potter USA acquired the company to preserve its antique patterns. The company continues to offer patterned wire and metal sheets in copper, brass, and silver, using the original 1800s rolling mill that came with the company. Vincent Potter, son of Potter USA founder Kevin Potter, manages the company and oversees the milling process.</p>
Kevin's face just lights up as he shows of his extensive collection of metal dies. The passion he exudes is infectious!
If you're curious about using dies and forms in your metal work, Potter USA has a variety of tools and machines to help you achieve that.
Go to the website and take this free video class on using the Potter USA presses.
They have something for everyone!
https://www.potterusa.com/online-classes
