Ken Nowicki on fri 10 dec 04
Phil wrote:
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While, most 'Fruit Woods' such as Apple, Plum, Cherry or
Orange and so on...I would expect to do nicely...
Almost any so called Rosewoods...or 'exotics' who posess a
fine even grain, and have their own sort of 'oil' in them...
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Okay... this thread couldn't have any better timing for me... thinking about
wood used for handmade pottery tools. I've joined the club. Yes, many of you
are already members and know what I'm talking about. But, I'm a recent newbie.
Which club am I talking about? The Chris Henley handmade pottery tool club of
course!
Recently, I treated myself to a birthday present to myself. I ordered from
Chris Henley several handcrafted wooden tools. I'd been hearing for a few years
now all of the accolades from many of you about just how wonderful they are to
use, and what superb craftsmanship Chris takes in each and every one of his
creations. I must echo this sentiment. I cannot wait to use these babies and
have them become part of my creative endeavors.
I ordered a bevel cutter, a set of three modeling tools (.5" dia. X 6"
length), and three of his "keb" trimming knives (8", 9", & 12" length). The modeling
tools and trimming knives are all in gorgeous ebony wood. They are true works
of art in and of themselves. You'd have to hold them in your hand to
appreciate what I'm talking about. These will be tools that I hope can be passed down
through generations. Really beautiful. Worth every penny.
Chris's service was extraordinary. We communicated only through email, but
nothing more was needed. He is very efficient and concerned about what the
customer wants. He surprised me when he wrote telling me that the handles in the
photos of his tools on the websites were only examples... and I could get any
kind of handle style crafted to my specifications that I would like (at no extra
charge!). As it was, I chose one of the styles shown and let him use his own
judgment. Once he made them, he sent .Jpeg images for my approval, then sent
them out right away. He said to look them over, see if I was pleased with them
BEFORE sending him a check! Now THAT is unheard of in today's world! Nice to
see some still doing business in the old fashioned way built around trust...
something sadly missing from our commerce from the days of yore. I sent him a
check and thank you note immediately.
Interestingly enough, he recently wrote back with this tidbit of
information...
"just a note on the ebony I used for your tools. It is actually very old. The
mill I got it from had it stored in a forgotten corner for at least the last
40 years, possibly more. I believe it was part of some antique furniture that
been imported just after WWII, and I had to convince the owner to part with
it. I get a sense that It certainly has some history behind it. This may seem
strange, or worse yet, trite, but sometimes I get a "feeling" from a piece of
wood, and this batch of ebony just seemed to resonate with me, especially after
the tools were finished. I'm pleased they have found a caring home."
Now wasn't that a nice little surprise to hear? Gives the tools even more
meaning than they had before... how cool is that?
So, if you ever want to treat yourself (or someone else) to something really
special... go check out Chris Henley's Pottery Tools website
(http://www.hominid.net/toolpage2.htm) and treat yourself to something you will cherish for
years. I know I will. (And no, I have no affiliation with Chris or his tools
other than being another one of his satisfied customers.) I am already planning on
ordering a few more tools as gifts to some friends. In my opinion, for the
amount of work and craftsmanship that goes into each one of these tools, and
their sheer beauty, they are very reasonably priced. Just my two cents.
Best regards,
- Ken
Kenneth J. Nowicki
Port Washington, NY
RakuArtist@aol.com
Charter Member/Potters Council
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