WOODCARVING & ACCESSORIES

What You Need To Know About Colonial Arts And Crafts

The colonial times were one of the most interesting and vital in American history. Colonial arts and crafts function as a creative reminder of this exciting time. Many antique and art enthusiasts enjoy collecting colonial arts and crafts, or at least reproductions of them. If you're a parent, it's likely your child has or will bring home some of their own artistic reproductions of creative work done during this historical time period. Whether you are a significant antiques collector or simply need a small something to highlight your home, colonial style pieces are an ideal choice.

There are a range of crafts from which you can select. Silver smithing, needlepoint, wood carving and glass making are examples of ordinarily practiced creative trades during colonial times. Colonial silversmiths created gorgeous vases, bowls, utensils and coins, while wood carvers and furniture makers crafted everything from tables to bed frames to childrens' toys. Needlepoint and embroidery were female pursuits. The women of colonial times created wall hangings, clothing, quilts and more using their talents.

Glassmaking was an important trade in colonial Jamestown. To this date you can travel to this significant location to see glassmakers recreating the work done by the first colonists. Today, glass is blown into surprisingly creative and colourful pieces. Placing a few colorful glass pieces around your home can make quite an impact. In colonial times, glassmakers centered more on practical pieces like window panes, bottles and vials, vases and basic drinking glasses than on objects d'art. Nowadays, glass is sometimes fashioned into items that aren't only functional but stunning too.

If you are a parent searching for a creative activity for your kid, teach them the simplest way to make a colonial craft. Perfumed pomanders are simple to make and were frequently presented as Xmas gifts during colonial times. An orange pomander, for example, is simply an orange with fragrant cloves inserted into the skin in a decorative way and hung on a braided cord. Silhouettes are also an easy-to-do craft that was popular during colonial times. Try checking out an arts book from the library or book shop for more concepts. One good title is The Heritage Sampler: A Book of Colonial Arts and Crafts by Cheryl G. Hoople and Richard Cuffari.