A little about me.
I have been making things since I was a little country kid in the 70’s. We played in the woods, built forts, chucked rocks at model boats in the creek, and drank from the hose. Our mom is an artist, and our dad has always preferred making something rather than buying it. I was/am a weird kid and was happiest when I was making something.
Over the years, woodworking has been the core of my various creative stages. I did craft shows and saw multiple trends come and go; there was the whole tater and onion bin thing, pine furniture, the “Blue ducky with dots” period, “shit on a stick,” and my passion for a long time, twig furniture. But in my 40s, the sawdust was taking its toll on me, and I needed a change. Shelley and I were both tired of the noise and mess of the woodshop, and sales were lagging.
About 13 years ago, I attended a tinsmithing class at Campbell Folk School, and my life changed. I came home inspired, recharged, and ready to go in a whole new direction creatively. More and more woodworking tools came out of the shop, and hand-powered metalworking tools were being moved in. I started making a few lanterns and taking them to our living history events. One thing led to another, and now I make many lanterns and some folk art.
Most of my time is spent studying traditional tinsmithing and applying that knowledge to create handmade tin lanterns and assorted tinware for living history enthusiasts, fantasy enthusiasts, historic sites, museums, and film companies. I enjoy creating custom work and collaborating with passionate and exciting individuals.
Shelley is my wife, best friend, soulmate, and inspiration. She is way more talented than I am and is always there to help me improve a design or hash out my goals and dreams. I would be nowhere without Shelley.
My work is being used throughout the US and in several European locations.
I am happy to work with you to create the perfect lanterns for your event, program, film, or fireplace mantle. Don't hesitate to contact me, and let’s talk about making what you need.