What is the Horn and Needle ? 

The Horn and Needle is an Artificer driven store dedicated to the crafts of Hornwork, scrimshaw and period correct needlework inspired by originals and the imaginations of John & Chandra DeWald.

*Artificer:  A skilled worker, a craftsman, one that contrives, devises or constructs something original.  A clever or inventive designer.

*Scrimshaw is the name given to handiwork created by whalers. It began on whaling ships between 1745 to 1759 and survived until the ban on commercial whaling. It takes the form of elaborate engravings in pictures and lettering on the surface of the bone or tooth, with the engraving highlighted using a pigment such as lamp black or ink. With the advent of the migration to “The New World” this art was applied to the next available medium, powder horns. 

  As a Horner and Scrimshander John makes contemporary and historical powder horns & horn accoutrements.  Some examples are, spice containers, powder measures, inkwells, cups, wing bone turkey calls and many other items associated with horning from the 17th and 18th century.

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As a needlepoint and embroidery artificer, Chandra makes 18th century fire screens, bellpulls, and various pieces needlework that John incorporates into his horn work.  Chandra has done extensive research and visited various museums to study original examples.

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​   Please, come on in, pull up a chair and poke around. If you do not find something to your liking, please contact me and I can make something tailored specifically for you and your needs.

                                         Your Most Humble & Obedient Servants,