





These spindle centerpieces were fun to design and to make. Jordan found similar centerpieces, but was fearful that the bases were so small that they would not be stable. She contacted me and together we designed a more solid base, with a triangular flat to hold table numbers. The stems are turned to go well together, but they do not match exactly - they more nearly rhyme. The wood is poplar throughout and they bolt together from the bottom so they can be disassembled for storage and shipping. I made them to be paint ready and Jordan finished them. The finish is a gold base and white crackle finish. All in all they turned out quite well.
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.