



This is a wonderful way to display a collection of wine stoppers. The client's wife has a collection and wanted something other than a simple stand to display them. We worked out a design and acquired a very nice Claro Walnut burl from which the bottle and the matching stopper were turned. The shelf is quarter-inch acrylic with eighteen places to hold stoppers, fastened to the shoulder of the bottle. It is finished with Velvit Oil and buffed with Carnauba Wax to bring out the colors and the pattern of the claro burl. This was truly a collaborative, custom work with everyone involved from the design to the choice of the wood and the decision to use acrylic rather than solid wood for the shelf. Since it was a gift, but not a surprise, the recipient was in the process as well, which to me is the best way to approach a custom made gift; but eliminates the "oh wow" factor of a truly surprise gift.
ShopDog Turnery
I have been making from wood for as long as I can remember. I take a great deal of pride in my work and will not accept a commission if I am not entirely sure I can complete it to your satisfaction. ShopDog Turnery is a one-person, one-dog operation making all sorts of custom items, primarily lathe based. This includes bottle-stoppers, wine glasses (with glass or wooden bowls), platters and plates, bowls, boxes, and whatever else springs to mind.
In addition to lathe work I make various flat pieces; tables, specialty boxes, cutting boards and, again, whatever else springs to mind.
I make for the joy of the making, using sustainably harvested and reclaimed or historical woods exclusively.
Molly was the ShopDog, but is no longer with us. She did all the "RUFF" work in the turnery.
Working with Jim Barbour was a very positive experience. I especially liked Mr. Barbour's prompt communications with me about my custom, personalized cutting board project and I was promptly informed of the status of my project along the way. I highly recommend this craftsman.
Jim was great to work with. He offered wonderful ideas to make the project more personable. I would definitely work with him again/recommend him highly to someone looking for a good turner.
Communication was excellent.The project is beautiful. Quality exceptional. And it arrived in time for me to use on Thanksgiving. I will be ordering again from this shop. Highly recommend for exceptional gifts.
Jim Barbour was an absolute joy to work with! He is extremely knowledgeable, insightful, and is a highly skilled craftsman. He guided me through the wood selection process and explained how my cutting board would be made. He was extremely patient with my many questions. The finished piece is absolutely gorgeous! It is now one of my prized possessions! I will enjoy showing it off to friends! Jim would receive my absolute highest recommendation on any project involving wood.
Beautiful piece. Solid construction. Exactly what I was looking for. Very pleased with the work and with the ease of the transaction.