Sample tile swatches

In 1999, I made my first tile mosaic as part of a Millennium public art project. And that was that: I had found my art. Today, I have my own ceramic tile studio, plus a mosaic workshop, and also rent time in a second ceramic tile studio with additional resources.

For several years, I've been looking for a way to translate the kind of tiles I love to make into "things" that are as beautiful. I didn't want to just make and install yet another kitchen backsplash. And I don't want to just make and sell boring tile by the pound.

So I thought... what else do I like to see, and collect? Well, antique and vintage cabinets. I especially love the handmade ones. I mean, really, what's not to love about a toolbox some fellow made from wooden cheeseboxes? Or tin oil cans? Who does this anymore?

Result: I decided to give a new life to neglected antiques, sometimes incorporating my handmade tiles to add that special zing. Voila!

I enlisted my favorite craftsman to do the parts I can't (like... measure once, cut twice. No, wait...) Meet Mike!

And the name of the shop.. Copper Swan? Well, I designed my studio so that, while sitting at my workbench, I have a wide view of the wetlands here at my home. While I work I can see egrets, ducks, geese, Sandhill cranes, and trumpeter swans. The cranes are the loudest, but the swans are the most beautiful. And copper? My favorite metal to work with. Warm and beautiful.

That's what we make: Warm and beautiful boxes and cabinets to treasure. They are unique, and they are classy. Enjoy.