The fourth piece in our accent line is complete. Rustic and relaxed, the ‘09 Cab is a snapshot of our local winery culture. El Dorado county is recognized as an American Viticultural Area and we felt the urge to pay homage to the wonderful sights of expansive vineyards and their delectable tastes.

More views and information in the gallery.

I’ve begun work on the fifth and probably final piece in our accent line. Using the same case shape, this piece will feature hand-carved hibiscus flowers. Alder frames bisect the carvings and each carved pane is maple for extra resilience.

We’ve had the Lord Baltimore hibiscus flowers in our garden for a few years now. They bloom with gorgeous 10-inch flowers that usually last for just a single day. I wanted to capture that momentary beauty forever in this piece.

The original drawing was exploded to full size and transferred to each pane. A small router was used to waste the majority of the panes, leaving a clear outline of the flowers. The plan is a jet black finish on the body and frame, with vibrant greens for the stem and striking red and yellow on the petals/stamen.

(more…)

Occasionally I like to step away from furniture making. This departure, simply called ‘Rainbow,’ was dreamt up, drawn up and started to get roughed out longer ago than i care to remember. I kept this covered and protected for many years until the time was right to complete the handwork. The betta (Siamese fighting fish) has such fluid and graceful movement, swimming in the ribbons of stylized eelgrass. Hanging on the wall, a soothing aquarium comes to mind. I originally intended to paint the fish with iridescent colors. With this beautiful piece of Honduras mahogany, at nearly two feet wide, it may very well remain clear. Now presentable with the handwork complete and clear finish on, we’ll hang it and study it.

(more…)

I would like to take this opportunity to thank and introduce my computer guru. Please meet my youngest son, Eric. He is responsible for all things technology at Robert Howard Studios. From website creation to postcard design/layout to integrating software with our CNC router, he makes it possible for you to read this and see into our shop. Thanks Eric, for helping me to be a better woodworker.