Sharon Tishler
While living in the northwest suburbs of Chicago in 1991, Sharon made her first Santa with the help of a friend. "I did all of the sewing and she did all of the sculpting," Tishler said. They both worked on construction and details. Five years and hundreds of Santas later, Sharon moved back to her roots in Benton, PA. Anxious to resume work, she had to learn how to sculpt. "After many botched heads, I was finally able to produce a face that was suitable," she said. Since then, she has participated in many juried arts and crafts shows and won several awards here in the northeast. Heirloom Santas are constructed on a wood and wire armature. Each head is individually sculpted from blended Fimo clay, set with handmade eyes. Imported wools are used for beards and wigs. Nearly all fabrics are natural fiber. Recycled fur and leather are used primarily for trim and boots. Heirloom Santas project a realistic look. "My style could best be described as pure and simple; clean lines, good scale and no frills."

Heirloom Santas

Gardening Santa on Wooden Bench

Father Christmas (28 inches)

Northwoods Santa (18 inches)

Santa in Metal Sleigh