More about Customers, and a new venture!
Hi again. Well, last blog I mentioned that I may be talking about something a little different, and I will. But first I wanted share another awesome customer story.
About a week ago, i noticed someone asking online if they knew anybody who could build them a folding wine picnic table. I replied stating that I could likely help them out. They had several other recommendations for different companies. Bit this customer responded and asked if I could do this. Now, to be clear, I have built lots of items in my life, including side tables, coffee tables, light bars, cabinets, etc. BUT – I have NEVER built a folding wine picnic table. Before last weekend, I hadn’t even heard of them! But it looked interesting and like a challenge, which as you get to know me, you will know that I am a “challenge accepted” person.
We exchanged messages and pics back and forth, discussed different wood options, etc. I sent pics of some of my work, and they really liked the look of the Arrariba that I had. Turns out my supplier didn’t have any, but I had just enough to complete this project. And, as you will see it has amazing grain and pattern.
So, we agreed on a price for the Arrariba, finish, etc. “Oh and you will make sure there are pins to hold the table open and closed?” Didn’t even think about that, but – “challenge accepted”. Agreed on a timeline – 2 weeks to completion. Deposit was sent, and I set out to design and build this. In my research, most of these tables are 12” diameter. But they wanted 18” and we agreed to that. Had to reverse the folding direction – no big deal. But – how was I going to implement this folding mechanism? Well setting up the holes for this was the easy part – cut the leg and brackets on the CNC and everything will line up. But I wanted a pin to hold it, that didn’t look industrial. So I decided to inset a rare earth magnet into a pocket on the leg. I then turned 2 pins on my lathe and inset the opposing rare earth magnet in the ends of each of these. Works like a charm. Made 2 just in case the customer loses one. One is Maple, the other is Walnut. All in all this customer is getting my first, but probably not my last, folding wine picnic table. Sent her a picture today of the table and her comment was “ stunning”! Just what I wanted to hear. Another very happy customer. And delivering a week early! A few days ago, same customer sent a pic of a Shark tree ornament and asked if I could make one. Challenge accepted! And succeeded. The pic I was sent was off a laser cut metal ornament, mine iOS created out of 4mm Maple.
I absolutely love making customers visions come to life, and I feel that I truly overdelivered on this one!
When I quoted on this project, I recommended an oil and wax finish. It has become my go to. I also included a 2 ounce container of wax for touch ups and refinishing.
That has been my latest project – designing and making my own oils and waxes. The product I was buying was getting costly as it is a food safe item. So I did my research, and formulated an oil and wax finish. Not going to give away all that I do, but will tell you that it is 100% food safe. Some ingredients include Mineral Oil, Coconut oil, Vitamin E, as well as Beeswax. Unfortunately for my wife, I am using up some of the beeswax she got four her pursuit into candle making. We purchased 5 pounds of raw Beeswax. This is amazing to work with, as we had to first filter this and reform it into smaller blocks to use for various projects. In various formulations, I have perfected an oil for primary finish, as well as a beautiful wax for final finish. The look and feel of the finished product is, in my opinion, better than the purchased items. And the smell of this finish is extremely pleasant and sweet. And the finish is soft and smooth. Added bonus – softens your hands while you work! Next up for tonight’s project is to work on a higher solid, carnauba wax based product. Hoping that turns out as good, as carnauba is a harder finished that can be buffed to a higher shine.
I will be provided 1 ounce tins of wax with all of my charcuterie or cutting boards, as well as selling the tins to any customers that are interested.
That’s all for this week – stay safe, and enjoy your time with family and friends.
