Handcrafted America: Season 2
Season 2 Premieres Oct. 21st at 9:30p ET

Weathervanes

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Don Felix J. Donald Felix Handmade Copper Weathervanes & Sculptures

Seabrook, New Hampshire | Website

You don’t need a weatherman to know which way the wind blows. All you need is a weathervane. In the coastal town of Seabrook, New Hampshire, Don Felix has taken the traditional method of making weathervanes and turned them into one–of- a- kind, customized pieces to weather all storms.


GET TO KNOW DON

What drew you to your chosen craft?

I started my journey as a coppersmith at the age of 15. My friend’s family owned a copper shop where they produced weathervanes. The weathervanes were made in iron molds. As time went on, I learned other aspects of the trade, including the ability to make weathervanes “free hand” without molds.

What do you enjoy most about your craft?

I enjoy the ability to create pieces of work from a sheet of copper totally by hand. It is very rewarding to have my work in so many different places, knowing it will last for many years. I enjoy the relationship I develop with my customers; to make a piece special for them is very rewarding to me.

Why is it important for people to make things with their own hands?

Working with my hands gives me the ability to make the visions in my mind come to life. My work is a part of me. My thoughts expressions and heart go into my work. My hands are the tools that let me create and share the way I perceive life and the world through my creations.

In what ways are handmade goods better than those that are mass-produced? l

When a piece of work is handmade, it is very special. It reflects the artist. We all envision life in our own way. By making a piece by hand, we bring our own visions to life, which makes each piece unique, and each artist’s work different.

What does the future hold for your type of work?

Today, weathervanes are mass produced overseas. Imported weathervanes are sold everywhere. However, there is a market for custom-made vanes. I can make almost any style weathervane. There will always be a market for high quality custom work. I’m honored to have people that collect my work to display in their home or office.


Leather Chinks, Koa Chess Sets, Weathervanes

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