Safrut STaM (the art of writing and making Torah scrolls, Tefillin and Mezuzot) has employed the same techniques for over 3000 years while the practice of illuminating text goes back to the early middle ages. Jamie Shear is available upon request to come to your local synagogue, school, community center, or summer camp to give demonstrations or workshops in these subjects.

Some of the demonstration topics are:
1) Parchment making (i.e. stretching and preparing the hyde to write on.)
2) Quill cutting (reed and feather)
3) Tefillin compartments (Batim) - i.e. preparation thereof.
4) Laws of Safrut - some basic laws and principles behind the writing of Mezuzahs, Tefillin and Sifrei Torah, as well as some differences between Sephardic and Ashkenazic traditions.
5) Illumination - a description of some of the medieval techniques of painting and gilding used in decorating texts.

Jamie may also discuss some of the art techniques that he uses in illuminating texts (e.g., painting, guilding) that were employed in the Middle Ages. All of these demonstrations are done in an interactive manner, showing hydes, Batim and artwork in various stages of formation.

The demonstrations of this rich and ancient practice are done in an interactive manner showing hides, Batim and artwork in various stages of formation. It is an enlightening experience that enables us to become better acquainted with this Mitzvah that is essential to our Jewish Heritage.

Please contact the scribe if you are interested in a demonstration, or workshop.