German Brown Pitch—also known as German Red Pitch—is a natural pine-based chasing and repoussé pitch favored for its balance of grip, hardness, and low working temperature. Imported from Germany, it blends pine resin, powdered brick, and tallow to hold work securely while you hammer, punch, and chisel. This is the same pitch supplied in pitch bowl kits and a long-time bestseller with professional metalsmiths.
Features
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Natural formulation: Pine resin for tack, mineral filler for body, tallow for elasticity—great feel at the bench.
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Secure hold, clean release: Excellent adhesion when cool; softens evenly when warmed for easy positioning and removal.
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Versatile hardness: Suitable for general chasing, light forming, and planishing support.
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Trusted by pros: Used daily by noted chasing artists and included with pitch bowl kits.
Specifications
| Package Weight |
2 kg (4.4 lb) |
| Package Format |
Tub |
| Composition |
Natural pine resin, powdered brick, tallow |
| Also Known As |
German Red Pitch |
| Origin |
Germany |
What's Included
- One 2 kg (4.4 lb) tub of German Brown / Red Pitch
Notes
- This is a natural product; minor batch-to-batch variation in color and firmness is normal.
- Typical working approach: gently warm to shape and support, cool to work, warm again to release.
- To use: warm pitch in a suitable bowl until pliable, seat your work while soft, allow to cool fully before chasing. Re-warm slightly to remove the piece and wipe residues while warm.
- Use a hair dryer or heat gun at a safe distance; avoid overheating to the point of bubbling. Always wear safety glasses when working with hot pitch.
- A good pitch should grip when cool, soften evenly, and not shatter under blows—qualities associated with traditional pine-resin pitches. For an in-depth discussion, see Charles Lewton-Brain's review at Silversmithing.com.
- Commonly referenced titles for chasing and repoussé technique: Moving Metal (Adolph Steines); Chasing & Repoussé (Nancy Megan Corwin).