The weather is turning a corner and my winter confinement is subsiding. It’s nice to work outside again, prepping wood, carving spoons and finishing pieces.
This past month I worked on a collaborative commission with Sam Tower from Macramé By Monday. Sam made a custom wall hanging for a client and they asked for a matching plant hanger to go nearby. I was asked to make a couple beads that would be incorporated from a dark-toned wood that would stand out from the white cord.
My first step in a commission is to made a sketch of the overall plan. I like to draw plans as it helps me work out proportions and overall form. I find that if I don’t sketch ideas out on paper first, then I end up sketching on the lathe with the more valuable resources of wood and time.
I had planned to use walnut, but ended up using tropical sapele wood instead. It has more reddish tones and a subtle shimmer to it when oiled.
After finishing up the beads with oil and poly, I sent them off to Sam to make the plant hanger.
Since I was sending a box to Sam, I made some additional beads for her to work into new plant hangers she will make this spring. What I enjoy most about my collaborations with her is how much we both appreciate each other’s creativity. She’s always been open to working with whatever I send her.
When the specifics of what’s needed are looser, I do sketch on the lathe as a form of play, creating in the moment. It’s not without risk. I’m not always able to make something I’m happy with, but as a process, it teaches me better technique and better design.
You can look for news on Sam’s work on her Instagram feed @macramebymonday.
Another form that I like to play with is a honey dipper. Last week while taking a break from another commission, I made this mini one just for fun.
In my Etsy shop:
Celebrating the end of winter with a set of ash bowls.
Upcoming events:
On May 21st, I will be demonstrating the lathe at a woodworking festival at Bethany Arts Community in Ossining, NY. More details will be coming soon.
Until next month, I leave you with a little woodshaving zen.
-Julia