Metal Spinning

by John Akkus

The only way to truly understand this intricate craft is to see a demonstration. John Akkus is one of a small number of hand spinners still plying what is one of the oldest trades in the world!

View John Akkus’ artist showcase page.

Hand-Carved Wooden Bowls & Spoons

by Bob DeWitt

See a wooden spoon carved from a piece of wood when Bob demonstrates the entire process. Using wood from countries with sound environmental policies is just part of what makes each spoon special. Each one is carefully carved and shaped, no two are ever alike, Bob says he couldn’t make them the same even if he wanted to. To create the smooth finish, they are soaked in water and sanded several times to reduce the surface grain. Then they are submersed in mineral oil and finally buffed with beeswax. Bob believes the spoon chooses the person, when you see this demonstration we think you’ll agree.

Forged Iron

by Tom Boone, Boone Wrought Iron

Watch Tom Boone in action as he carries on his family’s tradition of blacksmithing. Check out his booth to see his intricately finished designs of forged iron candlesticks, floor lamps, fireplace sets, and wine holders.

Woodturning

by Don Jones

Using a lathe and his knowledge of the cellular structure of each species of wood, Don creates beautiful vases and bowls from blocks of wood. The lathe holds the individual piece of wood but the artist does the actual hand-carving himself using a curved chisel called a “gouge.”

Wheel-thrown Pottery

by Helen Weichman

Pottery is part of our history and something we use everyday. But have you ever actually seen how it is made. A beautiful, smooth pottery vase actually starts from a lump of clay. Watch as the potter’s skillful hands and the spinning wheel together create a timeless piece of art. The individual pieces are then carefully dried, fired and glazed to create beautiful, functional pottery for your home.

Raku Pottery

by Rod Meyer & Karen Benedict

Come watch Ron Meyer perform this ancient method of firing pottery, developed 400 years ago in Japan. The word “Raku” comes from a Chinese ideogram meaning enjoyment, pleasure and happiness. Using a special clay, a pot is made that can withstand the extreme thermal shock of Raku firing. The pot is glazed, heated to 1800° F, then pulled hot from the kiln and thrust into a container where it is surrounded by combustible materials such as newspaper. The heat of the pot causes smoldering and smoke, which blackens the pot. Rapid cooling causes the metallic luster and black, spider cracks typical of Raku pottery. It’s fascinating to watch the whole process. Raku is actually a collector pottery.

Sheep Shearing

by Michelle Reilly

Come learn where your wool blanket or sweater comes from! Michelle Reilly shears her sheep as you watch! She loves to show off her sheep and educate people. A lot of people think you have to kill the sheep to acquire the fleece – not so. After shearing, the sheep returns happily to the pasture while Michelle dyes the wool an array of colors, spins it into yarn and knits it into one-of-a-kind sweaters. This demonstration will give you a much better appreciation for wool.