Harwood

The Spanish Colonial art of tinworking began in the isolated regions of early New Mexico as an effort of Hispanic Colonist's to create beauty despite the lack of traditional artistic materials. In the mid-nineteenth century via the Santa Fe Trail, lamp oil in 5 gallon tins were brought in to New Mexico along with food items and other goods. In resource-starved New Mexico these containers were used by the tinsmiths to create their art. Tools employed in tinwork are simple and inexpensive.  A hammer, some small punches, tin shears, a soldering iron and a small workbench are all that is needed. Vern will guide you through the process of creating a beautiful punched tin work of art.  A $50 materials fee is payable to the instructor at the beginning of the class.