About the Artist: Rachel Kedinger
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Rachel Kedinger is an artist currently living in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, creating her own work. Rachel primarily makes objects out of metal with a focus on utilitarian use. Before moving to Philly in early 2018, she participated in the Core Fellowship Program at Penland School of Craft in North Carolina. She has also lived in Detroit, Michigan, and Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, seeking opportunities to work with various artists and metalsmithing shops. Prior to living and working in Michigan, Rachel grew up in Wisconsin and went to school at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, where she received her bachelor of fine arts degree in jewelry and metalsmithing in 2012.
Website: RachelKedinger.com
Social Media: @RKedinger
About the Artist: ME Hitt
Morill, Maine
ME is a carpenter and woodworker who lives in midcoast Maine. In addition to their shop space in Rockland, where they pursue personal work and commissions, they work full time as a carpenter for a local frame-to-finish builder.
Artists’ Statement
This froe, a tool used for cleaving wood by splitting it along the grain, is the right width and thickness to give power and control when riving, or splitting. The geometry and size of a froe are essential to its function. The subtle curve in the cross section adds to the ability to guide splits. The addition of a cross pin allows the user to disassemble the tool for travel but ensures that the handle stays in place when in use.
The handle and pin are made of ash, turned on a lathe, and individually fitted to the eye of each blade. The mallets are also made of ash and are finished with shellac and wax. Ornate versions of the froe are available in ash, dyed black, and with a brass pin.