Made, right here, in the U.S.A.

Every effort has been made to select the best quality materials. It is getting increasingly harder to find good quality wood. That may seem "hard to believe", but most of the old growth lumber has been harvested years ago. Whenever possible, we will use older wood for its strength, and dimensional stability. We want our products to provide years of dependable service. Brian Lowery

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

"ARRIVE IN STYLE"


If you have "fancy poultry" and you want them to arrive at the shows in
the best possible condition, this carrier may be what you are looking for.
A cardboard box might work, but is that what you want for your "blue
ribbon" birds?

I used the best materials that I could find, including old growth lumber, to
provide strength, light weight, and good looks. I also used joinery that you
find in furniture to make this carrier a "cut above" the rest. The picture
above shows the twin loading doors with solid brass hardware.

I prefer release gates, shown above, because it makes it so easy to transfer
your birds from the carrier to the show cages. Gates have touches of polished
walnut which adds weight to the bottom, and makes them close easier.

Finally, this carrier has a removable, lockable partition. When carrying a
trio of prized birds to the show it is often desirable to separate the male
from the females, and the partition does the job. If this is not necessary, it
is easy to remove.

Saturday, June 19, 2010

An American Icon says, "We Can Do It!


A new series tote, featuring an American Icon (such as Rosie the
riveter or Amelia Earhart), special hardware, and distinct wood
finishes. This tote will let you take on chores, such as gathering
eggs, feeding your flock, or both if you don't have too many chickens.
Also great for gardening or any other tough job. You can do it.

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Check on your Chickens with this Tote


Lots of room for eggs as well as food: mash, oyster shells
and grit. Do two jobs in one visit to coop. White plastic
jars hold food supplies.
Shown with optional, oak, "pistol grip" handle

Free Sanding Block Plans

SANDING BLOCKS
I made the sanding blocks so they would fit my hand better than a block with 90 degree edges. The block in the back is a jumbo model. I just glued a 1/2" piece of wood to the top, before I used a wood rasp to make the "ergonomic" shapes.




Exploded View of Sanding Block



There are many sanding blocks on the market and I didn't like any of them, so I made my own.
Also, the time honored method of wraping a piece of sandpaper around a block of wood, although it does work, left a lot to be desired. When sanding a lot, my hand would cramp trying to hold the paper. This sanding block holds the paper tightly so you can concentrate on your work, plus it holds a 1/4 sheet at a time, saving you money. It is easy to fold and cut sandpaper into quarter sheets.
The threaded insert and the machine screw, allows the sanding block to be opened and closed over and over without losing it's grip on the sandpaper. I used two sizes of dowels so the top would always align itself perfectly with the bottom. It requires a little more work, but it is worth it. After making one, you probably will make another, so you can have a variety of sanding grits at your finger tips.
These materials are readily available at most hardware stores. Take your time and you will add a valuable tool to your wood shop!

Tuesday, June 1, 2010

A place for your "treasures".







May 28, 2010 - I alway wanted to make a pirates chest. This one has all the features. The sides are tapered on all four sides. I guess that makes it easier to lower into a hole in the ground. The top has an undulating curve. It wouldn't be a "true" treasure chest without the curved top. (Kinda looks like Capt'n Crunch's hat, but I know that is not the reason for the compound curves). You got to secure your treasures, but I didn't want just a store-bought hasp. The solid brass hasp was modified and incorporated into a hand cut "skull and crossed bones" wood applique. Sides are secured with water proof glue and wooden pegs.



World War II Tool Tote




May 17, 2010 - Completed a large tool tote with lots of additional features including: camouflage paint scheme; arched handle (for easier access) made of solid oak with through tenon joinery and a "pistol" grip; hand painted image; and heavy duty hardware.





This "trophy" won't collect dust!


Hand cut dovetails secure the bottom. Look closely
and you can see the wooden dowels on the side.

This special box was created as an award to be given to the winner of a 40 lap late model stock car race in memory of pioneer car builder, Lee Stultz.
The race was held at the newly remodeled, Winchester Speedway, which is located just east of town off of Rt. 50 in Virginia. More than just another trophy, this prize can be displayed, but it also can be used. In addition to the locking top compartment, a removable front panel conceals six removable, small boxes that can hold small parts.