Unique artisans of pewter inspired by tradition.
Handmade fine pewter makers, Thomas and Patricia Hooper of Missouri, established ASL Foundry in 1995. With a love of pewter making, they create tableware, household and personal items with original designs inspired by tradition, mythology and folklore.
The Hooper’s will demonstrate their fine craft of pewter making at 3 p.m. on Sunday, February 7th during Market Square Shows at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center. “The artist demonstrations enable our buyers to meet the artists and talk to them first-hand about their work and creative process,” says Kathy Goodrich, president of Market Square Shows.
All done at the hands of the couple, they cast into molds, turn on a lathe, and fabricate the metal. Buyers find durable and collector-worthy lines of tableware — plates, flatware, sconces, candlesticks, bowls, tea and coffee service, and many other items for use in dining.
Using traditional lathe work, Tom creates plates and goblets. “That process includes cutting wooden forms to each desired shape,” says Patricia. “The result is an inclusive line of wholly innovative and exceptional pewter ware that is functional as well as decorative.”
For castings, a combination of the Hooper’s own designs as well as an acquired collection of historic and antique bronze, aluminum and steel molds are used in the ASL Foundry.
Tom Hooper of ASL Pewter hand making pewter ware.
A dedication to traditional craft led them to be the founders, charter members and officers of Traditional Handcrafters of America. “We share a fascination with European and American history, which translates to our work”, says Tom. “Our historical pieces give historic accuracy to the collector, re-enactor or enthusiast.” Over 500 pieces of their pewter were used on the sets of a 2007 HBO mini-series about the life of founding father John Adams – the ultimate testament to the historic accuracy of their work.
For over 25 years, Market Square manages selective wholesale shows presenting unique, one of a kind gift and home décor products in the traditional, farmhouse, primitive and vintage styles. Learn more about buying and exhibiting at Market Square Shows, and see a list of exhibitors at www.marketsquareshows.com
Learn more about ASL Foundry at www.aslpewter.com.