What This Resource Is
Coppermere is a local information archive focused on copper and metalwork craft in Canada. The content here covers the technical side of working with copper — forming methods, annealing, patination, surface finishing — alongside an overview of the communities, institutions, and traditions that sustain these crafts across the country.
The material is descriptive and informational. There are no courses sold here, no membership fees, and no affiliated commercial interests. The goal is to maintain a clear, well-organised reference for people with a practical or research interest in the field.
Editorial Approach
Content is written in a neutral, descriptive register. Technical descriptions aim for accuracy over simplicity — where a process has specific temperatures, durations, or material names, those specifics are included. Where there is genuine disagreement among practitioners about methods or standards, that disagreement is noted rather than resolved by editorial preference.
References to external organisations and publications are provided where relevant. External links point to established organisations, government bodies, and reference works — not to commercial vendors or affiliated interests.
All content is reviewed and updated periodically. Update dates are noted at the bottom of each article.
Coverage Scope
Coppermere covers the following areas:
- Copper forming techniques: raising, sinking, spinning, chasing, repoussé, forging.
- Annealing, pickling, and work-hardening management.
- Surface finishing: mechanical methods, patination chemistry, protective coatings.
- The Canadian artisan metalwork community: craft councils, fairs, apprenticeship, suppliers.
- Architectural copper use in Canadian buildings.
- Historical and Indigenous copper working traditions in Canada.
Coverage does not extend to precious metal jewellery, industrial copper production, electrical wiring applications, or plumbing. These are substantial fields with their own dedicated resources.
Contact Information
For questions, corrections, or research inquiries:
- Email: info@coppermere.org
- Phone: +1 (613) 629-0184
- Address: 312 Metcalfe St, Ottawa, ON K2P 1S2, Canada