See one-of-a-kind crafts created right in front of you. Sugarloaf offers demonstrations so you can understand how these talented artisans create their wares. Their pieces don’t come from an assembly line or factory. Each piece of art is infused with individual love, care and energy.
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!
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.
Glass Lampworking
by Shannon Norris & Erin Cartee
Watch as Erin and Sharon transform molten glass into dazzling works of art.
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.
Hand-Built Shaker Boxes
by William Richardson
You'll be intrigued by the ability of wood to be bent into simple but elegant designs that not only have timeless beauty, but contemporary functionality when you watch Bill Richardson produce his museum quality Shaker Boxes. Using fine woods, Bill secures the hand cut swallow tail finger joints with copper tacks, just as was done in days of old.
Basketmaking
by Tom & Nancy Sheehan
Tom and Nancy create intricate and beautifully detailed baskets using woods such as maple, hickory, and oak. Williamsburg reproductions and harvest baskets are just a few of the fine pieces they offer.
Painted Wood Furniture
by Barry Leader
Furniture of the moment for the not too tightly wound! Watch as Barry shows us how he creates whimsical furniture, mirror frames, clocks and other accessories using skills he's developed over a lifetime of working as a woodcarver.
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