Robert Welch Cutlery

Robert Welch was born in Hereford, England, in 1929. During his childhood, his family moved to the village of Colwall, situated on the side of the Malvern Hills, and later to West Malvern, Worcestershire, where he grew up. He had a lifelong love of the Malvern Hills and often walked there. He was educated at local schools, including Lyttelton Grammar School in Malvern and Hanley Castle Grammar School, where he excelled at sports. Welch's upbringing in these picturesque English locales influenced his appreciation for design and craftsmanship, which later became evident in his work.

Robert Welch cutlery is designed in the UK, with the company's design studio located in Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire. Robert Welch While the design process is rooted in British craftsmanship, the manufacturing of their cutlery takes place overseas to maintain high-quality standards and precision. This approach allows Robert Welch to combine British design excellence with global manufacturing expertise, ensuring each piece meets their rigorous quality criteria.

A high-quality grade of steel for cutlery is 18/10 stainless steel, which contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel. This composition offers excellent corrosion resistance, durability, and a lustrous finish, making it ideal for flatware and kitchen utensils. The chromium provides rust resistance, while the nickel enhances shine and improves resistance to acids and alkalis.

Here is our quick guide on making sure you are buying a high quality cutlery set.

1. Material Composition:

• Stainless Steel Grades: High-quality cutlery often utilises 18/10 stainless steel, comprising 18% chromium and 10% nickel, which offers excellent corrosion resistance and a lustrous finish. In contrast, 18/0 stainless steel lacks nickel, making it more susceptible to rust and less durable.

2. Construction and Craftsmanship:

• Stamped Cutlery: Stamped cutlery is produced by cutting blade shapes from large sheets of steel, followed by tempering, sharpening, and finishing—processes typically handled by machines. While traditionally considered lower in quality compared to forged cutlery, modern advancements have improved the performance of stamped knives, making them a viable choice for those seeking a lighter, more affordable option.
• Forged Cutlery: Forged cutlery is crafted from a single piece of steel, heated and hammered into shape, often involving skilled craftsmanship. This process results in a denser, more robust blade with superior balance and durability. Forged knives typically feature a bolster and full tang, enhancing strength and control. Due to the labor-intensive manufacturing process, forged cutlery is generally more expensive than stamped alternatives.

3. Weight and Balance:

• Heft: Quality cutlery should feel balanced and substantial in hand. Forged knives are usually heavier, providing stability and control, while stamped knives are lighter, which some users may prefer for tasks requiring agility.

4. Finish and Aesthetics:

• Surface Smoothness: Examine the cutlery for a smooth, polished finish without rough edges or imperfections. A high-quality finish not only enhances appearance but also contributes to corrosion resistance.

5. Brand Reputation and Reviews:

• Research: Established brands with a history of quality craftsmanship are often reliable choices. Additionally, customer reviews can provide insights into real-world performance and durability.

6. Price Consideration:

• Investment: While higher-quality cutlery may come with a greater upfront cost, it often offers better longevity and performance, making it a worthwhile investment over time.

Yes, Robert Welch cutlery is designed to be dishwasher safe. To maintain its quality and appearance, it's important to follow these care guidelines:

Dishwasher Use: Wash on a short, hot cycle at 65°-75°C (150°-167°F). Use quality branded all-in-one dishwasher tablets; for UK customers, Robert Welch recommends Fairy Platinum Plus, and for US customers, Cascade Platinum Plus. Ensure rinse aid is topped up, and add salt if you have hard water. Avoid washing with non-stainless steel metals, as this can cause rust staining, especially on knives. Regularly clean dishwasher filters and use a proprietary dishwasher cleaner.

Hand Washing: Rinse cutlery promptly after use to remove food residues. Wash in warm, soapy water with a microfiber cloth or non-abrasive sponge. Avoid soaking and dry thoroughly immediately after washing. Always avoid scouring with pads or abrasive cleaners, as this will scratch the surface. Robert Welch

Shop at Cotswold Knife Company with confidence, knowing we are a verified stockist of Robert Welch Knives.