How They Are Made

Mark works up to 100 hours to complete an ornament from the initial design, to carving the wax model, through to the finishing touch of tying on the satin ribbon. He begins the process by referencing hundreds of different types of angels, from simple folk art styles to renaissance masterworks. Mark’s final designs ensure that his Christmas Angels are alive with movement while also projecting charm and grace.

The final pewter Christmas Angel ornament looks exactly the same as the carved wax model – the smallest scratch or mark will show up on the final metal cast. Some artists build up the wax as well as take it away. Because of his experience with carving ice and wood, Mark’s technique requires that the wax simply be removed.

He uses a variety of implements – some are for professional carving, others are dental tools. Fine steel wool and metal polishing paste are used to create a smooth and shiny finish. Mark built his own custom workbench and uses magnifying glasses when carving the wax model to create the intricate detail of the ornament.

After the wax the carving is complete, the model is sent to Replicast Inc. in Providence, RI where a hard resin copy is made. This copy is transferred to Indiana Metal Crafts who make a mold and pour the pewter casting.