78th American Crafts & Historic Homes Tour
Ben Pittman Knives
Metal
All knives are 100% handmade from start to finish with great care taken to create the best possible piece. While the cutlery may be considered a work of art, they are designed to work in both the kitchen and the field. Being of heirloom quality, these knives are intended to make memories and be handed down through generations.
As a clay artist for four decades, my construct and intent for the creations of my hands and mind are simple. I am trying to bring into the world objects which impart a feeling and mentality of beauty.
The inclusion of the visual, how it enters the eye and so mind, is meant to suggest, without demand, a sense of balance, ease, and harmony and thereby yield strength and content(ment) to the mind.
Though the work may be deemed a functional in nature , it can morph into a presence which alters environment by simply being . It then does not have to be a used to function , and so becomes effective and affecting . This would be to yield change, and so congruent with life.
The leap which clay offers, is the adroitness of inclusion by function and use, multiplying capacity. If I am good enough as a thinker, an artist, and a craftsman, I can build a bridge upon which beauty can travel and so by begin a synergy.
I am a historic redware potter since 1986. I employ historic folk art on slab technique redware pottery. I use mason stain and slip and underglazes.
As a period formal furniture maker, Kauffman’s intention is to build furniture inspired by the designs of authentic period pieces and to impart to those pieces a beauty that can be admired and enjoyed, and a functionality that can be appreciated for generations. Kauffman’s hope is that his furniture, having been built with time-tested, period joinery and embellished with period carving, inlay, veneer, and other decorations, will emulate the quality, lasting appeal, and value of furniture from the 1700s and early 1800s. Lastly, that his furniture craftsmanship, conscientiousness, humanity, and dignity will be easily recognizable to those who own it.
Jackson Foster is a maker and painter of trade & tavern signs in the tradition of 18th and 19th-century artisans. His research of historic people and places is the rationale for the majority of his signs. His background in history, design, lettering, and woodworking provides the basis for creating authentic interpretations of early American signboards. He uses reclaimed wood–some boards date to the 1700s–and period-style hardware including
blacksmith-forged hanging irons, nails, and hinges—all making for unique signs in which no two are alike. He continues to refine his craft through research of early American artisans, typographic styles, painting practices, and joinery techniques. Each sign purchase comes with a framed, historic description providing research and background information.
Honey & Beekeeping
Jeffrey Pfoutz has twenty years of beekeeping experience and the learning continues. More than a hobby, beekeeping can become a rewarding vocation by learning to understand and work with the distinctive honeybee. Enjoy learning about these fascinating insects and the unique products they produce.
Jeff will have a live bee display and discuss the process of gathering honey and being a beekeeper.
Children are welcome to ask questions about the bees and beekeeping.
Rochford has always been interested in history and early American crafts. Through this interest, she became acquainted with the historical American floorcloths. She enjoys demonstrating and educating the public about this craft. During the last 13 years, she has made these canvas products for home as well as for sale. The first piece, a large 8ft. rug is still in her front hallway. Many of designs are inspired by the colonial canvases, although she creates original and contemporary designs. The products begin with natural heavy cotton canvas. This canvas is stretched and coated with primer, artwork done, then a protective coats applied. The final step involves creating a folded under and glued hem. In addition to participating in many shows, Rochford has produced many and varied custom pieces, including historical reproduction pieces. She also worked with interior designers and have taught numerous floorcloth production workshops.
Refiners Forge
Metal
Jared Lanham is a blacksmith that focuses on using traditional techniques to shape and join metal. He makes tools, hardware, functional decorative items, and designs one of a kind commissioned pieces. Jared loves to share his knowledge of the craft with others.