Process Information

My primary design method is a sketch book in which I record ideas as they occur. The book allows visualization of how a piece might be constructed. A second method skips the sketching process and takes place entirely in the shop: ideas progress from concept to wood with no intervening steps.

Most of my materials are acquired from local (Chilcotin region of British Columbia) sawmills, dried and sorted for clear edge-grain. Pine, red and yellow cedar and alder are the species of choice. My choice of wood places emphasis on form rather than on the wood itself. The species and the figure of the grain become secondary to the intent of the piece. Other materials used are glass, copper, brass, beads, bones, and horsehair.

My usual finish is Watco Danish Oil. Where possible, I like to put several coats of oil and then finish with wax. I avoid any shine on the surfaces.