Unplugged Shop

A reminder for those who know, and an invitation to those who might not: Unpluggedshop.com is a great collection of woodworking blogs. From carving to cabinetry, luthiers to lumbermen, tools and materials, there's dozens of excellent blogs that regularly update.

Check it out, and add a few blogs to your RSS feed!

A simple heart w/a tiny shamrock

It's always fun to make something quickly. Clear out the cobwebs, and take a break from larger projects. This heart was carved from a small bit of scrap basswood, too small for much else. 

D&D Adventuring Party- The Thief (completed!)

The Thief is done! With a gold coin in hand, and a sly look in his eye, The Thief is the newest member of the group.  Where The Fighter uses force, a thief relies on stealth, cunning, and skill. 

These two will compliment each other well, but the party is not yet compete. Magic users, both arcane and divine, will form the support element of this successful group of adventurers.

Next in the Adventuring Party: The Cleric

D&D Adventuring Party- The Thief

The Thief figure is just about carved! The figure features the grinning Thief, gold coin in one hand, hidden dagger in the other. His belt holds two pouches, an empty knife scabbard, and a coiled rope. 

Next I'll carve the facial features, then give it some color with acrylic paint.

D&D Adventuring party-progress

The first figure in my group of dungeon-delving heroes is done! The Fighter is the core member of any adventuring party. He's the front line, the sword and shield protecting the less martial characters. 

This fighter wears grey armor under "bachelor button blue" robes, and a crimson cape to better find him on the battlefield. His shield device is a diving swallow, inspired by the neck label on a bottle of Powers Irish whiskey. 

All figures in this project will wear matching gold cloak clasps w/emerald gems. The Fighter wears his on his left breast. 

Up next: The Thief!

Mini-Mage with knife, all carved and painted!

This little carving is all done! A tiny wizard, his ritual knife in hand, ready to cast out evil or carve a baked ham. 

Cinco de Mayo plaque

Here's this year's Cinco de Mayo gift for our friends at John's Tex Mex Eatery, in Rochester. I started with a craft store plaque, with the idea of a coat-of-arms. I think it came out pretty well.