Crafters to showcase work

Beginning June 2, visitors to Downtown Moneta will have an opportunity to see old-world crafters in action. Old Moneta Artisans Guild is hosting monthly events from June through October showcasing the crafts of area residents.

"We'll be demonstrating, selling and taking orders," said Jonathan Falls, a blacksmith.

He and Christopher Lynch, 26-year-old Moneta residents and owners of Old Moneta Iron Works, will be hammering away at their portable forges set up on the lawn fronting Virginia 122.

The blacksmiths will be joined by other area artisans for Artisans First Saturdays including those skilled in wood carving, leather working and jewelry making. Falls said additional artisans are welcome to join the fray.

"We're looking for anybody and everybody," said Jay Maxfield, a Moneta woodworker. "We're looking for specialized crafts and people that are dedicated."

Falls said the guild is looking to connect with artisans such as tinsmiths, coppersmiths, potters, glass blowers and basket weavers. They are not required to demonstrate their crafts during the events.

Artisans will not be charged exhibitors' fees. Maxfield said artisans are welcome to join Old Moneta Artisans Guild, but membership is not required to participate in the Saturday events.

Artisans First Saturday is free and open to the public. The events will be held the first Saturday of the month through October from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting.

For more information, call Jay Maxfield at 632-9599 or Jonathan Falls at 588-8031.