Perfectly imperfect

In our business, we have a deep appreciation for wood and the pieces that are perfectly imperfect. These are the chunks of wood that many would discard as junk. Yet, to us, they hold potential.

One of the most rewarding parts of our work is rescuing wood that has been cast aside. Whether it’s from a storm-felled tree or scraps destined for the burn pile, we see something special in each piece. It’s an art form to recognize the hidden beauty in what others see as waste. This is where our journey begins.

Every piece of wood we rescue has its own unique story. The knots, cracks, and twists tell a tale of nature’s handiwork. Instead of seeing these imperfections as flaws, we embrace them. They add character and charm, making each piece one-of-a-kind. The challenge lies in finding the best and most beautiful use for these perfectly imperfect pieces.

With our trusty sawmill, we transform large, rough chunks of wood into smaller slabs. This is where the magic happens. As we cut into the wood, its true character is revealed. The grain patterns, colors, and textures come to life, showing us exactly how this piece can be used. It’s a process filled with anticipation and excitement.

We believe in making the most of every piece of wood we rescue. It’s a way to honor the material and reduce waste. Small offcuts might become coasters, picture frames, or even jewelry. It’s all about seeing the possibilities and creating something meaningful from what others would discard.

One of the greatest joys of our work is sharing our creations with others. When people see the beauty in the wood that we have rescued, they are often amazed. It’s fulfilling to tell them the story behind each piece and explain how we turned what was once considered junk into something beautiful and valuable.

In our business, we see the beauty in wood that is perfectly imperfect. Each piece we rescue from the junk pile holds a story and potential waiting to be revealed. The challenge of finding the best and most beautiful use for these pieces is what drives us. With our woodshop and creative eye, we transform these rough chunks into unique creations that celebrate the natural beauty of wood. Embracing imperfections, we turn what others see as waste into unique pieces.

Wood has a say….

The statement “Wood has a say” expresses the unpredictable nature of working with wood. Regardless of the plan, the outcome of a project will inevitably be influenced by the characteristics of wood. Knots, grains, and other natural features can shape the design in unexpected ways, adding a unique touch to each piece. This phrase serves as a reminder to embrace the organic beauty of wood and appreciate its role in the creative process.

Our equipment ranges from basic hand saws to advanced CNC machines and lasers, allowing us to create unique and intricate pieces out of wood. Kevin opts for hand drawings on paper for his designs, while I use various software programs. Regardless of the design process, the wood itself ultimately dictates the outcome of our creations.

The selection of wood is a critical aspect of our craft. Our wood shed houses an array of custom wood pieces awaiting transformation into unique creations. For laser work, we often use 1/8” Baltic birch plywood because of its suitability for intricate designs. The distinctive grain patterns of each piece of wood plays a significant role in determining the final appearance of the project. When our laser interacts with the wood, varying levels of darkness and lightness emerge, influenced by the hardness or softness of the wood within the grain. Softwood results in darker tones, while hardwood produces lighter shades, contributing to the individuality of each finished piece.

All projects are finished, sealed and protected from the environment. At a minimum, we use a clear seal, or we add stain and seal. Before staining, a conditioner is applied to the wood to prepare for the stain. The final look of the stained project is only revealed once fully dried and sealed.

The challenge of letting the personality of each piece of wood shine through our creations and recognizing ature’s handiwork often guides the direction of the final product. Every knot, grain, and pattern tells a story expressing the individuality of each piece.

Fresh cut Wood

In a world consumed by the rapid pace of technological advancements and digital connectivity, the value of traditional craftsmanship and the simplicity of natural resources often go unnoticed. The familiarity with the smell of freshly cut wood, the satisfaction derived from transforming raw materials into handcrafted masterpieces, and the joy found in creating something unique with raw materials are experiences that are becoming increasingly rare in our tech-centric era.

At Shellback Woodworks & Laser Design, we pride ourselves on combining the traditional art of woodworking with modern laser technology to create individualized and exceptional pieces. Our commitment to preserving the essence of craftsmanship serves as a reminder of the importance of reconnecting with nature and deriving pleasure from life's simple joys amidst our technology-driven surroundings.