Blog Archive

2025-10-26

Hippopotamus Christmas Tree Ornament: Mitigating Dust

An Excalibur EX-21 scroll saw with a inch deep pile of sawdust on the table after cutting 280 Hippopotamus ornaments from black limba wood.
My Ornaments

I have cut a significant amount of wood on my Excalibur EX-21, which is evident from the wear on the table. Before this project, I had never seen the sawdust accumulate like this. The pile shown is less than half of the total sawdust generated. Some of the sawdust ends up on the floor, while most of it gets collected by the dust collection system under the table.

My dust collection system for most of my shop relies on a Ridgid vacuum and a separator that effectively removes all but the finest dust particles. The vacuum is equipped with a Gore CleanStream Pro HEPA filter, which captures the remaining dust. Additionally, I have a Wen air filter mounted on the ceiling that captures a significant amount of fine dust, although it still doesn't eliminate it all.

2025-10-25

Unique Handmade Fretwork Cross Ornament

Wooden Fretwork Cross Ornament Handmade and Finished Held In The Makers Hand
My Ornaments

Looking for a thoughtful gift for a Christian friend or family member? Consider our Fretwork Cross Ornament, handcrafted from reclaimed hardwood. Each piece is meticulously hand-finished, ensuring it stands out as a unique keepsake.

Dimensions:
- Height: 4 inches
- Width: 3 inches
- Thickness: 1/8 inch

Every ornament is made from natural wood, so no two pieces are exactly alike. You can expect some variations in appearance, grain, color, and knots, all of which contribute to the charm and character of each item.

If you have specific preferences regarding the look or size of your ornament, please reach out before placing your order. I’ll do my best to accommodate your request.

This handcrafted item is made with care in Tallahassee, Florida, USA. It’s not just a decorative piece; it’s a reminder of faith and a beautiful addition to any home.

 

Hippopotamus Christmas Tree Ornament: The Sanding Begins

Approximately 280 handmade woode Hippopotumus ornaments in plastic bins ready for sanding.

 My Ornaments 

All the Hippopotamus Ornaments have been cut, and the eyes have been drilled. There are approximately 280 hippos. I spent 14 hours cutting and drilling all of these. Now, the sanding process starts.

There are several steps involved in sanding these pieces. The first step is to sand them with the patterns still attached. Usually, there is a small nub where the saw began cutting, and if I'm lucky, that is all that needs to be sanded. However, some pieces may require slight adjustments to their shape or occasional rough spots that need smoothing.

Every time I pick up a piece, I conduct a quality assurance check to identify any issues. If I come across something I don't like and it can be fixed immediately, I address it right away. I set aside a few pieces for additional work, but so far, I haven't had any rejects. However, I dropped one piece and couldn't locate it, and the shop gremlins seem to have taken it.


2025-10-23

Victorian-Style Fretwork Christian Cross for Easter, Christmas and Home Decor Handmade And Finished

This handmade Christian cross features a Victorian-style fretwork design, making it a perfect ornament for Easter, Christmas, or home decor.


Celebrate Faith with Unique Victorian-Style Fretwork Christian Cross

If you're searching for distinctive and elegant decor for Easter, Christmas, or simply to enhance your home, consider the Victorian-style fretwork Christian cross. 

Perfect for Any Setting

The cross is an ideal choice for both home and office decor, adding a touch of spiritual elegance to your space. Each piece is meticulously crafted, ensuring that every cross is unique, making it a thoughtful gift for loved ones or a special addition to your own collection. 

Handmade Quality

Measuring approximately 3-3/4 inches in height, 2-3/4 inches in width, and 1/8 inch in thickness, this cross is made from natural wood. Because each item is handmade, slight variations in appearance and thickness are to be expected, enhancing the character and charm of each piece. 

Natural Beauty

The unique variations in wood grain, color, and knots do not detract from the quality. Instead, they contribute to the item’s individuality. If you have a specific look or size in mind, reach out before placing your order, and I’ll do my best to accommodate your request.

Handmade with care in Tallahassee, Florida, it’s more than just a decoration; it’s a celebration of faith and artistry.


 

Hippopotamus Christmas Tree Ornament: First Batch Cut

Hippopotamus Christmas Tree Ornaments waiting to be cut with a small number of them already cut an drilled neatly rranged on a Shopsmith table saw.

 My Ornaments

The first small batch of hippopotamus ornaments has been drilled and cut out. It may not seem like much, but this initial small batch takes about three hours to reach this stage, and they are still a lot of work to be done. 


2025-10-21

Handmade Unfinished Turkey Figurine, 3D Layered, Freestanding, Paintable, Thanksgiving Decor, Crafts, or Animal Toy

Handmade 3D layered freestanding wooden turkey figurine, unfinished and unpainted. Perfect for Thanksgiving decor, crafts, or as a toy.

Buy Now

As Thanksgiving approaches, enhance your decor with my handmade unfinished turkey figurines. Crafted using traditional woodworking techniques, each turkey is unique and high-quality.

These freestanding, 3D layered turkeys are lightly sanded and ready for painting, making them perfect for crafters of all ages. You can transform them into personalized decorations or use them as toys for imaginative play.

Ideal as a part of table centerpiece or rustic ornament, these turkeys will bring a cozy touch to your Thanksgiving celebrations. Add some creativity to your holiday decor with these versatile.

2025-10-20

Wooden Christian Fretwork Cross Handmade and Finished

Wooden Christian Fretwork Cross Handmade and Finished held in the makers hand.
 
My Ornaments

Crafted from reclaimed hardwood, this fretwork cross is a unique decorative item that reflects traditional woodworking techniques and sustainability. By using reclaimed wood, I give new life to materials that might otherwise go to waste.

**Approximate Size:**
- Height: 4 1/8 inches
- Width: 3 1/8 inches
- Thickness: 1/4 inch

Each cross is hand-finished with care and attention to detail. Larger versions are also available.

Every piece is unique, with individual wood grain, color variations, and natural imperfections that add to their charm. These variations enhance the uniquness of the cross.

If you’d like a specific look or size, please reach out! I’m happy to accommodate special requests.

All of my creations are made in Tallahassee, Florida, with a focus on quality and craftsmanship. Thank you for supporting handmade artistry. I look forward to sharing more creations with you.