Western Red Cedar is often referred to as an "invasive species" as it is a prolific grower. This is one invasion I am ready for!
What started as curiosity of what would happen if I sanded a dead branch of cedar from our woods has turned into an obsession. The aroma and spectacular burgundy heartwood of this species has me addicted. The natural rot resistant dense properties of the species makes it an ideal material to work with. Standing dead trees make the most beautiful items. Each tree has its own growth characteristics making every item unique.
All of my creations have been harvested from our properties and handcrafted by myself. I'm not a professional woodworker. I don't have the tools or shop of a professional craftsman. I use basic everyday tools and a lot of imagination, determination and elbow grease. Each item is truly original and is made with heart and soul. Click on the images to see larger pictures and/or videos of how it was made. Enjoy!
The trees are ideal for small and large lamps as their cores are solid and the exterior varies on the age and natural weathering effects.
These cedars were cut from our property, hand scraped and finished. Each log took me over 40 hours to finish. There is a large 19 inch diameter log in the basement bar and two 17 inch diameter logs on the main floor. The install took many hands and a lot of muscle to place them. The upstairs floor joists were enhanced to support the weight.
Watch the YouTube videos below. You will be amazed!
Fireplace mantel centerpiece made from a dead standing red cedar that was covered in moss and looked like a weathered fence post. Good thing I have vision and could see past that! It turned out better than I ever expected and was definitely was worth the hours of work I put into it. Click on the two videos below to watch the transformation from forest to fireplace!
CEDAR BRANCH HANGING LIGHT ABOVE BAR. Wires are tunneled through branches dropping out of the ends. Edison bulbs give it a warm glow highlighting the natural curvatures of the branch. Light is hard-wired to ceiling.
Cedar Posts & Wildlife Black Iron Railing
These dead standing trees came back to life with a lot of hand sanding and finishing making the stairs rustic. Click on the image to watch the video of how they were installed!
Split logs
What a great way to accent a fireplace with split cedar logs. Each log is sealed with polyurethane to preserve the dark red heartwood.
Coasters
Slices make a great natural absorbing coasters. Each coaster displays the log's unique shape and rich heartwood. All material salvaged from dead trees.
Cedar Log King Headboard With Black Iron Nature Scene
This nature scene railing makes for a peaceful retreat. Click on the image to watch the video and see how it was made!
Cedar & Barnwood Computer Desk
I combine red cedar heartwood logs and barnwood to create a one of a kind computer desk. Click on the image to watch the video of how it was made!
Cedar Log End Table or Seat
This solid beauty was trimmed from the logs placed in the house. Works perfect as a side table or another seat.
Flagstone & Cedar End Table
This solid red cedar base was an excess section of the house logs. A sealed piece of flagstone glued to the base makes a beautiful and unique place to set a drink or book as you enjoy the views over the lake.
Red Cedar Log Mailbox Post
Watch how I salvage a cut tree, making it stand tall and proud for a warm welcome!
Red Cedar Root Base Garden Globe
Another transformation of a decaying cedar tree holding a lighted mosaic garden globe.
Flagstone, Cedar & River Rock Resin Coffee Table
Watch how I combine a variety of elements to make an amazing table that looks like you are at a relaxing stream.