The days are cold, the snow has been plentiful, and I find myself reflecting on the creative journey I have been on—and where it may lead next. I can see a goal far out in front of me, which is encouraging. In fact, I see two goals. The question is how to get there.

Reaching them will require new tools and equipment, with one investment in particular being quite substantial. It will also require learning new techniques—how I design and create my work, how I prepare materials for paint and finishing, and ultimately, how I apply that finish.

I approached this new path slowly and methodically. I spent time researching the tools, made the necessary purchases, and began practicing. As I progressed, the light bulbs started going off. Gradually, I began to understand this new technique and how it could elevate my work.

These new tools have made a significant difference. Having the right tool for the job is essential when the goal is to produce a quality product.

Along another path, I have been working through new items that have been on my list but never quite fit into the schedule.

Charcuterie Board
Using a slab of Black Walnut, I began by preparing the board and removing the live edge. Since a charcuterie board is intended for serving food, the bark had to go—no one wants bark mixed in with the cheese. That step alone required a fair amount of effort. Designing and burning in a custom engraving turned out to be especially rewarding. Once a food-safe finish was applied, the final result looked pretty awesome.

3D LED Night Light with Acrylic Engraving
This was another project that seemed simple at first, but sourcing RGB LED bases with remote controls slowed me down. Once I finally found what I needed, I was able to move forward. Although my clear acrylic stock was low, I managed to cut three designs—two for my grandsons and one for myself. They turned out really neat, and we all love them. Now it is time to restock on clear acrylic so I can make more.

Mini Stick Rack
My daughter asked if I could make a rack similar to an image she had on her phone. I started the next morning by designing the piece, measuring and cutting the wood, assembling it, and applying the paint. Shazam—it was done. If I do say so myself, it turned out pretty good.

I also made another puzzle for my grandson’s birthday and experimented with a new design for the storage box.

You will see all of these projects featured in the product gallery.

I jumped back onto that first, unknown path and began working on my Happy Easter Bunny. By this point, the tools had been acquired, and it was time to put them to use. Mr. Bunny was finally going to take shape.

A great deal of time went into shaping and sanding. I experimented with new painting techniques and products, and even brought out the airbrush. Today, Mr. Bunny was finished, and I can clearly see that with continued time and practice, I can refine this new style. It is a direction that will give my creations an added level of polish and a real shine of awesomeness.

In closing, I am truly amazed at where this journey has taken me. To be completely honest, I am so excited about what comes next that I often find myself awake at 3:30 in the morning, simply because my creative juices are flowing.