In between the larger projects like staircase remodels and wainscoting installations, I occasionally take on smaller projects that intrigue me. Many times I will have a former client ask for a unique item, or a phone call will come into the shop with the question “do you do things like this?” I am thankful for both situations, which led me to build some fun projects this year:
Custom Patio Cart
After completing a wainscoting installation and mudroom remodel, my clients and I were chatting about the other kinds of projects I have completed. I showed them a picture of a custom teak patio cart I had made for another client. Turns out these clients had been talking about getting one, so they asked me to make one for them too. They had been looking online but could not find one that suited all their needs. Plus, good quality materials and construction are very important to them, and they were worried about taking the chance on ordering something sight unseen. They put together a wish list of the varying functionalities they needed, and I created a design. I used ipe (pronounced eee-pay), a South American wood species known for its weather-resistant properties. It is also very hard, so it was a challenge to work with. I could not drive a nail or screw into it without pre-drilling a pilot hole. Also, the wonderful water-resistance meant it did not take glue well. I had to come up with a design that would allow for strong mechanical joints without using an adhesive. Good planning, engineering and detailing went into the creation of the patio cart. The main features my clients were looking for were a removable stainless steel tub in the top to ice beverages and drain easily, a bottle opener on the side, a shelf on bottom, and a matching wood piece that they could cover the tub with to allow it to function as a table when needed. I also designed the cart to fit in a particular spot on their deck. Finishing touches included using stainless steel exterior grade hardware, sealing of every joint, and applying a teak oil finish to show off the wood (and the benefit of additional sealing). This patio cart is not only perfect for my clients’ needs, it will outlast us all!
Tortoise Habitat
New clients approached me about creating a habitat for their beloved tortoise. I was intrigued at the idea of doing something so different. I was introduced to the tortoise (don’t call it a turtle) by their 5-yr old son, who had done a great deal of research on his pet and the appropriate habitat. We worked together to come up with a custom design, which included a house for the tortoise to burrow into, a heat lamp for basking, and a bit of room to move around. The final 3ft x 6ft piece included 18” sides as well. I wanted to add a bit of character to the tortoise house without going over budget, so I looked to doll house elements that are easily found in hobby stores. Moisture was a consideration too, since there was a water bowl that would splash, and tortoise droppings that would…drop. I sealed up edges with caulk and lined the bottom with plastic to make the piece waterproof. To ensure the health of the tortoise, I used only natural materials that one would use in a kitchen, especially since the resident was prone to chewing. I wonder how many woodworkers can say they built a home for a tortoise? I must say I thoroughly enjoyed that project.
Wayside Shrine
If you have been to Austria, you may know what is pictured above. My client and her husband had visited the country years ago and were inspired by the wayside shrines they saw throughout their travels. When they returned home, the husband made one for their deck as a unique reminder of their trip and their faith. The shrine had suffered from being outside for many years, and the wife was looking to have it repaired as a memorial to her now late spouse. I tried to keep as much of the original material as I could while bringing it back to its original beauty. I also sealed it up well so I would last a long time. This project was especially moving for me. When the original call came in with the questions “Do you do this?” and then “Would you do this?”, I was hesitant to take on such a small project. I was in the area however, so I stopped by to see it and once I met my client and her caregivers, there was no way I was not going to help. It was incredibly gratifying to install the refreshed piece for her. There were tears all around.
I have mentioned many times in my blogs how lucky I feel to do what I do for a living. I am grateful that it also allows me these opportunities to bring something special to people. This time of year its natural to take a moment to appreciate our lives. For me, my thankfulness is rooted in my family, livelihood and faith. And you. Thank you for trusting me with your homes and dreams!
