With few exceptions, any long, straight piece of wood can be used for a cane, stick or staff.
Generally speaking, my choices for Walking Canes are Hackberry, Chinese Tallow, Basswood, Maple, Cherry, Juniper or Cedar.
Walking Sticks & Staffs can be made from any of the above, but are especially good for using Aspen & Basswood. (As the sticks get longer, more weight is added and this can become a factor with hardwoods like Maple.)
You don't need to be a skilled designer to discover and execute an heirloom carving design...you only need to be willing and able to express your wishes to me. Skilled at asking important questions and with an intuitive imagination, I am confident that we can design and deliver the heirloom your descendants will be fighting over!
Many pieces showcased on the website are available for purchase, while some are not. However, anything displayed can be reproduced or serve as inspiration for your own project. If you find something you’re interested in buying or modeling after, please don’t hesitate to contact me for more information. I’d love to help you find or create the perfect piece for your needs.
No. Carving classes are scheduled on an "as requested" basis.
Absolutely! You don’t need to be an expert designer to bring your ideas to life. All you need is a willingness to express your wishes, and I’ll guide you through the design process. With my experience in asking the right questions and an intuitive imagination, I’m confident we can craft a unique heirloom that your descendants will cherish for generations.
Typically, each cane, stick, or staff takes about 6 to 8 weeks to complete. Due to the time required, I accept only around four commissions per year to ensure quality. The months of October, November, and December tend to fill up quickly, so planning ahead for holiday gifts is highly recommended. Early planning will help secure your spot and ensure timely delivery for your special occasion.
For pricing inquiries, please reach out to discuss your specific project or artwork shown on this website. Generally, the price for custom canes, staffs, or sticks ranges from $1200 to $1600, depending on the complexity of the design. Any 3rd party medals, charms, coins, lapel pins or medallions required for personalizing a story stick are at an additional expense to the client. A 50% deposit is required after the design is approved, and the remaining balance is due upon completion. Since each commissioned piece is unique, I cannot provide accurate pricing without an initial discussion.
Custom commissions require a 50% deposit upon acceptance of a design and prior to beginning with carving. Photos of the project will be provided at regular intervals during the carving process to assure each of us is happy with the work.
Upon completion, final photos will be sent and final payment required for all work prior to shipment. If the work is to be delivered in person, final payment can be made at that time.
No. With the occasional exception of detailed text on veneers, metal or leather (and at the recipients request) I do not use any of the above mentioned techniques. All carving is done with hand tools and occasionally when the wood species is especially hard (as with mesquite) with the aid of handpieces.
As an Artisan, I am a small business. My standard methods of payment include cash, cashiers check, PayPal & SQUARE.
Because of the difference in sizes, weights, destinations, etc. shipping cannot be determined until an item is requested. The amount I charge to the client is the actual shipping carrier fee.
Yes. I am required to collect tax at 8.25% at the time of purchase.
Please make your purchases with intention, as returns are not possible.
I am happy to arrange in-person tours of my studio where portfolio items are available. This is by appointment only.
Occasionally, my work will be exhibited and sold at local Artisan Shows.
I’m excited to hear from you! Whether you have a design in mind, a question about my work, or want to discuss a custom project, feel free to reach out. Together, we can create a cherished piece that will be treasured for generations.