Where do you get your wood from?

99 percent of our wood is locally sourced here in Pennsylvania. We originally obtained a previous woodworkers collection, and there are some woods that we couldn’t easily identify. Otherwise we keep our eyes and ears open for dead trees, storm damage, people selling wood, and of course the sound of chainsaws. The exotic wood we use from other countries and such are primarily utilized for pens, letter openers, key chains and such.

How long does it take to make a bowl?

That is a hard question to answer from bowl to bowl. This is due to many factors. 1. The woods moisture when we obtain it may take months to properly dry in a kiln. 2. The time to turn the bowl, and apply multiple finishes can draw out the process as well.

What woods do you have available?

We are always creating wood blanks so that we can fill customers desires. We currently have the following woods dried and available to us. (Note: larger dimension woods can be in short supply at times.)

Black Cherry, Cherry, Ornamental Cherry, Black Walnut, Box Elder, Multiple varieties of Maple, Ash, Oak, Elm, English Walnut (small supply left)

What are these wood terms you use when identifying wood?

Spalting: Spalting is any form of wood coloration caused by fungi. Although primarily found in dead trees, spalting can also occur in living trees under stress. Although spalting can cause weight loss and strength loss in the wood, the unique coloration and patterns of spalted wood are sought by woodworkers.

Ambrosia: Ambrosia Maple is Soft Maple with a cream colored background which is host to a variety of greyish-blue to brown streaks that are caused by an infestation of the ambrosia beetle.

Birdseye: Birdseye maple, one of the rarest kinds of wood on the planet, has a distinctive pattern that looks like tiny, swirling eyes disrupting the smooth lines of grain. Birds-eye maple is a form of figured hard maple, it is not a variety or species of maple. What actually causes the phenomenon is still unknown.

How should I store my bowl?

Wooden bowls are surprisingly resilient and can be stacked together to save space. Open shelving is a great option if you’re showing off a lovely bowl. Alternatively, roll-out shelving makes them easily accessible.

How often can I use my bowl?

If you own a high-quality bowl, or if it’s a family heirloom, it’s tempting to “save it” and only use it occasionally. But wooden bowls are intended for everyday use, as the regular washing, drying and buffing keep them in optimum condition. Salad oils can also help keep the wood in good shape.

What kind of food can I serve in my wooden bowl?

Traditionally, wooden bowls are used for salads or popcorn. But you won’t harm your bowl by serving wetter foods like stews, chili, pot roasts and meat. It’s also great for breakfast cereals, and sides like coleslaw.

How sturdy is my bowl?

A good wood bowl will resist damage from sharp knives. You can make salad dressing right in your bowl without damaging it. But if it does get marked or scratched, you can always restore it. Did you know that you can banish small scratches in wood with a walnut? And never put your wooden bowl in the microwave. The extreme heat will damage it.

How do I restore a neglected bowl?

Start by cleaning with steel wool or abrasive paper to remove any surface residue and to even out any dents or nicks.

If the bowl retains food smells such as garlic, sprinkle the inside liberally with salt and rub with a half of a lemon. If the bowl was used for raw meat, wash it out with a 50/50 solution of white vinegar and water, or a similar combination of water and three percent hydrogen peroxide.

A sticky residue on the surface can also be cleaned by putting your bowl in a warm oven to let the old oils seep out, and then re-seasoning it afterward with fresh oil.

It’s essential to use the right oil for rejuvenating your bowl. Food-grade mineral oil will improve your bowl’s resistance to water and salad oils. Apply it liberally with a soft cloth or paper towel and let it soak in well, overnight if possible. Then wipe off the excess and buff until the oil is absorbed completely.

How do I clean my bowl?

Once you’ve restored your wooden bowl to its former glory, use it regularly. After each use, wash it with mild dish soap and warm water and dry immediately. Never leave your bowl to soak or to dry naturally because it can crack and warp. For the same reason, don’t leave your bowl in the fridge or full of moist food, and don’t even consider putting it in the dishwasher!

A wooden bowl is a thing of beauty. Care for yours properly and it will retain that beauty for years to come.

What Payments do you accept?

Currently we accept Paypal, Venmo, Cash, and Check.