Jim Townsend, Rock Hill, SC
Stately study. Townsend took the Famous Furniture article on the Senate Desk in Issue 95 as a challenge. Pulling his measurements off the photos with an engineer’s scale, he created this impeccable version without any other plans, dimensions, or drawings. The desk includes detailed spindles supporting the shelf, and mortise-and-tenon joinery for the trestle legs. Changes from the original include making the desk square instead of trapezoidal, and using walnut rather than mahogany and rosewood. It’s a project both parties can agree on!
James Raines, Brentwood, TN
Duck that call. Raines turns these made-to-order duck calls from figured walnut and hard maple, and uses his own proprietary blend of finishes to achieve a hard, water-resistant layer. Neoprene o-rings ensure a tight fit between barrel and insert, and lessen the risk of cracking due to swelling.
Jim Smoller, Pittsburgh, PA
Driven a Ford lately? Smoller crafted this woody wagon for his leadfoot grandchildren. The built-tough oak chassis sits on lawnmower wheels, ensuring a smooth ride. A hand-rubbed paste wax finish brings showroom sheen to this 2020 model.
Dennis Thomsen, Cumming, GA
Lighting with a twist. This Georgia builder lit up his son’s bedroom with a unique floor lamp. Cherry-stained pine 2×4s get a quarter inch shorter as they twist upward from a solid base. A hole through the center hides the cord, and dowels maintain stability.
