Make a Shave Horse

The shave horse group saddled up and rode off into the sunset from Ed Payne’s shop on November 7, 2024. In all, we had 12 members interested in the project, though a few had to postpone construction while finishing other worthy projects (like welcoming a new baby into the family!).

At our final “rodeo” seven members came with their completed horses, and we spent some time shaving green wood and discussing both the merits of our designs as well as ways to modify the horses. Wyatt Mills brought a good-sized red oak log to split, rive, and share, and Ed Payne supplied some recently harvested black cherry. Others brought black birch, witch hazel and sassafras. One unexpected benefit was the aromatic quality of some of the shavings, especially the cherry. We debated whether the scent reminded us more of Smith Brothers or Luden’s cough drops. The black birch smelled like wintergreen (or was it licorice or spearmint? – opinions differed).

We thoroughly enjoyed creating these benches and enjoyed spending time together in the effort. We expect that there will be a run on drawknives and spokeshaves soon.

     

Wavy Cutting Board

A cutting board project was initiated by the guild in December 2022 with Jeff Clunie as coordinator and project leader.  To date, five Guild members have expressed an interest in participating in the proposed group workshop project to make a cutting board.  There are two intended purposes of the workshop: 1) to learn the techniques involved in making a relatively ornate cutting board; and 2) providing an opportunity for increased social interaction amongst Guild members.

Jeff Clunie served as the coordinator of this workshop and held an in-person "kickoff" meeting in January, 2023. 

During December, Jeff will contact all the individuals who have expressed an interest in participating in the workshop, in order to determine a starting time and day of the week which will work best for the group.  To prepare for the initial meeting, click Read Instructions.