Author Archives: Stephen

Footstool with Epoxy Inlay

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I have wanted to try using colored epoxy for an inlay. Zack helped me modify this Celtic 'Tree of Life' drawing. I created a template, and traced it on the top of a foot stool I was working on. The original artwork was created by Cari Buziak who allows free personal - non-profit use. Her template is available at: http://www.stencilkingdom.com/catalogue/catalogue.php?page=celtic/catalogue_body_celtic_celtic51.php

Stool legs with epoxy inlay on two sides.

Here is a photo of the top of the stool after the colored Epoxy was applied, allowed to dry, and sanded. I used Transtint dye to color the epoxy. A single drop was too much for 5 ml of Epoxy.

Finished stool. Live Oak center and legs. African Mahagony and Red Oak was used to wrap around the Live Oak top.

File Handles

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Live Oak Branch

Live Oak Branch trimmed to length and mounted between centers

Initial Shaping

Initial Shaping using shallow gouge

Final Shaping

Final Shaping using gouge

parting tool

defining the ferrule with parting tool

inflection point

Defining the inflection point with the parting tool

shape front half

Using round nose scraper to shape front half

taper rear of handle

Using round nose scraper to taper rear of handle

Rough sanding

Rough sanding after removing tool rest

Fine Sanding

Fine Sanding with 220 grit paper. Note vacuum hose to capture fine dust.

Apply tung oil

Apply tung oil with q-tip while spinning

Wax

Apply hard carnuba wax while turning

Buffing

Buffing with an old sock while turning.

Buff2.

Considerable pressure used while buffing causes the hard wax to melt and form a very tough protective finish.

Done

Two finished handles, ready to be cut apart on the band saw.