Course
Luffarslöjd: Scandinavian Wire Craft
Course Overview
Luffarslöjd is an old craft that is part of the tradition of making beautiful and useful objects for everyday use, using one’s hands and simple tools. Farmers used wire to mend fences and make and repair basic tools around the house and barn. Hobos traveled across the country offering to make things in exchange for food or permission to spend the night in the barn. Leftover bits of wire were used to make items like whisks, trivets, or egg baskets, as well as more decorative items like candleholders, birds, and hanging ornaments. With simple tools and wire of various gauges and materials, students will learn the basic techniques of wirework and will explore creative applications of wire working. During class, we will make a variety of objects, including hooks, candlesticks, bowls, jewelry, and trivets. The design of wire items is really limited only by one’s imagination.