Small (yet beautiful) wooden items
I've completed some really complex projects that have taken a long time to build.
It’s very satisfying when you can stand back from a big project and admire it just before delivering it to the client’s home or business.
But big projects aren’t the only ones that can be satisfying. Small projects can be designed, built, installed and enjoyed in just a few days. I’ve even made things that have taken an hour or two to complete.
I’m sure that’s the case for a lot of you, too. Knocking off a quick project is satisfying for all woodworkers. Even pros like Steve Der-Garabedian, who has written many articles for us, taught lots of Canadian amateur woodworkers and has completed a wide range of commissions for clients, surely gets a kick out of the small projects he completes.
Why Stevie D?
I’m prepping content for our Fall 2024 issue, and Steve will be featured in our “Canadian Quotes” column. As I was going through all the images he sent, I noticed a pretty great selection of smaller items he’s made over the years. Steve’s super keen on veneer, but he’s also no slouch when it comes to shaping and joining solid wood.
I know Steve made a few of these little gems for himself, but I’m guessing some were for clients, too. I know for me, it’s easier to make these little projects for yourself, as you have all the freedom you need to create something with a unique design and add whatever custom details you’d like. There are times when these details don’t turn out how I’d like, but there are other times when it’s the tiny details that truly make a piece. And because it’s only a small piece, the amount of material you’re dealing with is small and the time commitment is low, so I often take bigger risks with the details.
I’d love to see some small projects you’ve all made. Even if it took you only 20 minutes, if you feel it turned out well, I’d love to hear about it. If I get enough, I’ll include them in my column next week, as we can all use more inspiration to get into the shop to build even the smallest projects.
Pipe Stand
Der-Garabedian made this small pipe stand. While it may be large for a pipe stand, it's still a small project. I love the two-tiered look and the tiny dowels separating the two tiers. I also enjoy what seems to be an asymmetrical shape to these two tiers.
Fountain Pen Stand
Made mostly from curved (or at least non-rectilinear) arts, this stand has a beautiful, graceful shape to it.
Test Tube Vase
A simple approach; two pieces of wood, which meet at a right angle, have a slot to house a test tube.
Another Test Tube Vase
A single piece of wood, with a hole bored into its top face, then shaped on its four sides is the epitome of a simple project. What a nice way to display a flower or two.
Rob is a studio furniture maker and the editor at Canadian Woodworking & Home Improvement. Instagram at @RobBrownTeaches
Thank you for the very kind words Rob. It’s been awesome writing for you and the magazine. Small things contain lots of details.
I have gone to making small objects almost exclusively. I have many offcuts that I use for them with much success. From an “Armoire for Barbie dresses to a set of salad spoons, I use mostly Walnut, Cherry and Maple. Sometimes in combination.