Creations ready for pewter casting from the F is for Frank workshop.

Guest blogger Lydia Regalado is an arts educator, crafter and blogger who writes about people who gather to make things.

F is for Frank held its first workshop this past weekend. Owned and operated by Shannah Frank and Casey Melton, these gals are creating a niche for custom metal design. Specializing primarily in pewter hardware, F is for Frank works with interior designers, architects and, now, creative people like YOU! The process is pretty simple, and the finished product is a one-of-a-kind treasure that will last a lifetime. Pewter casting is a quick process, and once the mold is made it’s easy to duplicate for gifts, clients or that special DIY project. The turn around time to get your polished designs takes about two weeks. Participants in a recent Valentine’s Day workshop created small pendants, cufflinks and ornaments, but the possibilities when working with this lead-free material are endless: key chains, magnets, even belt buckles. Most of the time in this workshop was dedicated to the design process, but a demonstration of the casting and cleaning process also took place. If you’ve never seen molten metal, this is a real treat. Future workshops are already listed on their blog. If you can’t make it, give F is for Frank a call and they can provide private instruction, or check out their Pewter Ornament Making Kit that is available at their Etsy shop. Check out some beautiful photos by Kevin Dotolo on the Art&Seek Flickr page.

Next Up: Miniature Books with Paper Nerds

If one page is not enough to tell your sweetie how much you admire him or her, then create a miniature book with Paper Nerds. This Sunday, Feb. 8, from 1 to 4 p.m., Paper Nerds is holding a miniature book workshop. Participants will create match books, fold books, accordion books, price tag books, ring books and much more. Cost is $50, which includes materials, snacks, instructions and a great time. E-mail Shannon at [email protected] to register.

See you there!