In use for the last 2,000 years, the hammer and hardie is the quintessential set of mosaic tools. When used properly they are easier on the arms and hands than nippers as much of the work is done by the weight of the hammer. In this two session workshop students will learn correct form and how to cut materials such as stone, marble, and smalti. They will explore breaking materials of different densities and hardness as well as develop skills to form tesserae (individual mosaic pieces) more quickly with a minimal amount of waste.