Many times, function informs design. In addition operating a fully-equipped, fine-woodworking shop, I'm also a Blacksmith. From a design standpoint, I often prefer something that looks unique, custom, and has character than something store-bought.

Joinery is the term used for joining wood together. In the past, this was done mostly without the use of mechanical fasteners. While modern fasteners are great, they don't quite have the allure, or at times the soundness, of old-fashioned wood-to-wood joinery. Shown here are my hand-cut, through dovetail joints.

At BMM, details matter. This particular hand-carved detail is called a "Lamb's tongue". Details are often not noticed individually, but collectively they are what make a piece a "statement" piece.

A few years ago, I embarked on a journey to learn craftsmanship as it once was. Making a violin seemed to have all the elements of historical craftsmanship I was looking for. It was a successful project, and really fulfilled my appreciation for the history of this art. Shown here is my second violin in progress.