




This was a delightful project, more for the person with whom i worked than for the project itself. This is, as the name indicated, a cane made for a Grandpa. It was a complete surprise gift from a young grandchild who saw that Grandpa needed a bit of help getting around, and undertook to remedy the situation. What a wonderful way to show Grandpa your love. The cane itself has a heavy brass grip and brass foot, and is turned from Hard Maple that has been placed in black dye for a week to attain the deep black permanence desired. The finish is Velvit Oil for durability and water protection, buffed to a sheen with a topcoat of carnauba wax. On the leading face of the cane while in use Grandpa's name is engraved and, since it was made is important to Grandpa, we engraved "Made in USA" at the foot.
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.
I am very happy with finished project. I would use the maker again
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.
Working with Jim was truly a pleasure. He made my vague vision truly take life. My fiancée and I are impressed with the craftsmanship and quality of the pieces!