Chasers pitch


Chasers pitch is a thermal adhesive used by goldsmiths, silversmiths, coppersmiths, and other metal cold-working artisans to hold a metal plate for repoussage and "chasing" while it is being hammered out.
Generally, chasers pitch must become soft or even liquid when heated at moderate temperatures, in order to fit the object and fill all its nooks and crannies. For many uses, it is desirable that the pitch is soft like glazing putty while it is still cool enough to be molded with the fingers. On the other hand, at room temperature it must be hard enough to hold the object. It must strongly adhere to the metal while it is cooling.
There are many varieties of chasers pitch available, that differ on the nature or the ingredients, physical properties, or place of origin. Names include Swedish pitch, Red German pitch, green chasers pitch, and black chasers pitch.

Handling

Heating

A heat gun is a preferred way to heat up the pitch. A powerful hair dryer could also work. A blow torch as used by plumbers may also be used, although it creates a fire hazard since the pitch are flammable.

Receptacles

For repoussé or other metalworking, the pitch is usually poured or pressed while hot into a "pitch tray" for larger pieces, or in a heavy cast iron "pitch bowl" for smaller ones. The bowl, typically 6 to 20 cm in diameter, can be placed over a sand bag or leather ring, and tilted to whatever angle is most convenient. Its weight will keep it firm enough for most jewelry work.
For deep repoussé or chasing works, the pitch is usually applied as a thick layer on top of some backing material that can accommodate larger deformations.

Cleanup

Pitch residues stuck to the object can be removed with an appropriate solvent, such as turpentine. A blow torch can also be used to burn the residues, if the object can withstand the temperature.

Recycling

Chasers pitch has indefinite shelf life and can be re-melted and re-used indefinitely.

Composition

Chasers pitch is usually a combination of
The pitch can be a form of asphalt derived from petroleum, or can be derived from resins of various trees.

Recipes

A typical recipe could be:
The pitch is heated until molten. Plaster of Paris is added a small amount at a time. Resin and tallow are then mixed in.