Forging Ahead

Frank Bushere of Anaheim Hills had no idea in 1972 that learning the Old World technique of forging metals would lead to a business with his son, Charles.

Two years ago, Bushere and Charles launched an ironworks studio, melding custom creations with ceramics, bronze, steel and stone, among other materials.

The Busheres use a forging technique that was popular in the 16th century. Their equipment is a rebuilt 100-year-old machine.

The Busheres use copper and steel as a frame for tiles designed by Laird Plumleigh of San Diego to make decorative wall works ($125).

The Busheres also design and manufacture gates ($3,000) with intricate scrolls. “One person can’t lift them,” Frank Bushere says. “They’re very heavy.”

Other works include fountains, tables, benches and torchiers, which have been bought by celebrities such as actors Sylvester Stallone and Mel Gibson.

The Busheres’ works are available through Country Floors in Beverly Hills, (310) 657-0510, or by calling their Montclair studio, (909) 517-9229.

Help for Hands

After tilling the soil and pulling the weeds, soothe your work-roughened hands with lotions and potions from Crabtree & Evelyn.

Specially formulated for gardeners’ skin, the hand therapy lotion has an ultraviolet shield and sunscreen of SPF 15. The hand scrub with pumice also has a UV shield and sunscreen of SPF 15.

Gift packages combine several products with handy tools. The tote bag gift ($35) includes the bag with terra-cotta trim, the hand therapy lotion, a hand trowel and a cultivating fork.

Another gift package features a scrub bar, soap dish and nail brush ($16).

For the nearest Crabtree & Evelyn location, call (800) 272-2833 or visit the company’s Web site at www.crabtree-evelyn-usa.com

TV Attire

If channel surfing is your favorite sport, tie in your outfit with you’re remote control.

Ralph Marlin & Co., Inc., manufacturer of graphic neckwear, has designed a tie featuring remote controls of every size, configuration or complexity.

The microfiber tie ($20) is ideal for any family member who likes to take control of the television set, VCR or audio equipment.

Ralph Marlin has more than 3,000 designs, including licensed images of the major sports--NFL, NBA, NHL and Major League Baseball--Harley Davidson, Hollywood celebrities and cartoon characters such as Dilbert.

Ralph Marlin ties are available throughout the county at JCPenney stores.