Sunday, May 15, 2011

April commission, in oak no less!

I was hired to make a "five and a half board bench for a friend.  She wanted it in oak which I haven't much worked in before.



I laid my pattern pieces out on a couple of very nice, clear, and uniform red oak planks.  The milling and sawing was a piece of cake with no surprises.




All the pieces fit together like a dream.



Look who got to use his new mortising machine in the process!



As always, the screw and glue assembly is concealed by pegs.  



Clear Danish Oil really makes the grain come to life.

The client, being a Civil War enthusiast, specified trefoil relief cuts on the legs...


the insignia of the Second Corps.



This was an immensely satisfying project for both the woodwright as well as the customer.  It's very gratifying to make something that should last for generations and be valued by those who possess it.

What a delightful experience!



If you are ever in the area, I'd be happy to take your order.

See you soon with more from the shop.

Mannie

Sunday, May 1, 2011

Eyes on the prize


Have I mentioned that this is my birthday month?  I do like to get myself gifts.

This year I hope to upgrade my underpowered Craftsman bandsaw for this 1hp beauty from Grizzly Industries.  Iv'e set aside a fund from my paying shop project proceeds to bankroll it.  Also I've tied my goal of dropping 15 pounds into the mix as as a motivation/reward sort of deal.  Very win/win don'tcha' know.
Always thinkin'!

Mannie