Perfect Imperfections | There is a conversation that happens as I am working on any art endeavor. It usually starts with “how can I get this perfect?” As I’m woodworking, I set up the basics, make some fundamental decisions based on what I see, then launch into the project. I follow the contours of the wood and the flow of the carving tool to figure out what the piece wants to become. Most of the time, I have no idea of what I am making until it is well into the finishing stages.
For this project the drive to make it perfect was strengthened by my desire to create a gift for my friend Rachel. After choosing the wood, I encountered a few challenges. But a little creativity (and a lot of sanding) changed things for the better:
I chose my favorite wood to work with – figured maple because it has beautiful surprises in the graining and canary wood because it is soooo smooth to turn. After preliminary shaping and fitting, comes the joining. I was not fond of how the cup balanced with just the two pieces, so I added a base from some bonus cherry that I had from a previous project and it was just the touch needed. Once together (and repaired from a minor mishap) the sanding resumes:
…and sanding – sanding – sanding and sanding…
Finally smooth and pleasing to the touch. Next was transforming it from a “wood work” to art created to be used by my friend. I filled in the spaces with mica colored epoxy to give the piece the accent that I knew would be loved. As I created and sanded and filled and added the final touches, I kept my mind filled with her. Conversations we had over the years, moments we’ve shared all of this was invested into my work. When it was completed, it felt like hers.
As with all of us, there will be flaws in every piece. Those are used to enhance what is beautiful. Love is not in spite of flaws love is BECAUSE of flaws.
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