Bench and Blade

10/20/2025

The longed for greenhouse is now a reality for Elisabeth. Without the help and determination of our daughter, it would not be done. It seems that every aspect of its construction had challenges. It is done now and winter sheltering of lots of plants will be an enjoyed learning experience.

01/19/2025

08/25/2024

Just finished this Cricket Table. Beautiful air dried walnut top and turned walnut base. #3-2-1finish dried walnut base

07/13/2024

After a much longer time than hoped for, our Butler's Pantry is complete. It has been both a learning experience, skill builder and has become a useful and practical space. Basic cabinet construction, milk paint and brush on lacquer plus the fun and challenges of marquetry, appliques and a touch of intarsia. Design around a problem and fix as you go. That did eat up some time.

05/23/2024

This is the final drawer front for our butler pantry project. I've been playing with this pattern for quite a while and finally produced something I was happy with.

03/10/2024

The next door panel is complete and installed. A landscape marquetry with some veneer on hand. Inspiration from a number of printmakers--especially Laura Boswell.

02/17/2024

A gift to a bride of a cedar chest belonging to her great grandmother. Cleaned, old shellac removed, cedar oil refreshed the interior. New casters with wooden wheels and several coats of blonde shellac for the new finish. Approximately a hundred years old and manufactured simply with glue and nails. Had a v***r barrier on the bottom that I replaced. Kept the old hardware and cleaned it. Close to the original restoration.

02/17/2024

Three panels of the tree of life concept. Upper panel is carved Peruvian Walnut. Middle panel is for my granddaughters who love being and has a child like quality for them. The bottom panel is scroll saws black veneer on an 1/8th inch backing. Backgrounds are veneers on hand. All images are appliques. This door is installed on a broom/vacuum closet.

01/03/2024

A tea box for a friend who stepped in to support me with fellowship and a bed. Peruvian walnut and various maple grains supporting woods. Calla Lily and my interpretation of the English Rose.

12/19/2023

Several more ornaments for friends and family. Helps to develop turning skills and endless possibilities.

12/02/2023

Christmas ornaments. Playing on the lathe for a week or so between other work. Gifts for family and friends.

10/15/2023

Playing around with some spalted maple. I'm not really a turner but it's a learning project.