Carved Maple Burl Bowl
Custom Woodworking by Asheville Master Sawdust Maker
Custom Woodworking by Phil Pratt of SilverHawk Sawdust. I turn raw wood into beautiful pieces of art and functional furniture. Browse through these various wood projects to see an eclectic collection of Volcano Dishes©, Bangle Bracelets, Wood Furniture, Retail Display Pieces, Pens and more.
“If you love wood, listen to it. Don’t tell it what it must do, listen to what it wants.”
James Krenov, “A Cabinetmaker’s Notebook”, 1976
This statement captures my objective in woodworking and while I strive to achieve such, it will always be a work in process for me personally. A woodworker for decades, I’ve focused attention on “fine woodworking” for the last 15+ years. During this time, I’ve graduated to making special projects for friends and family in Asheville, Weaverville and the local area. And according to my wife, I know how to make LOTS of sawdust as I’m a master at that.
Never Intended to Sell:
Initially, I never intended to be selling my woodworking projects. Little by little, I was being approached to do various commissioned wood pieces. I’m very careful to select projects not too large or too advanced for my skill level. I try to be honest with the client when initially approached. I operate out of a shop in my basement in Weaverville, just outside of Asheville, NC. While convenient, this is also a restricting element. Everything has to be carried down and then back up the staircase which is never fun. And I’m running out of neighbors willing to help me carry heavy objects up the grade.
I have been fortunate to develop a niche market of one-of-a-kind retail store displays. I start by listening to the client and their unique requirements. Next, I develop mechanical drawings with 3-dimensional views for their evaluation before starting the project. This also helps me estimate the cost both in materials and labor. I’m also fortunate to have Cormark International only 4 miles from my home. They supply both exotic and domestic wood species and have a huge collection.
SilverHawk Sawdust has been a member of the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce for nearly 10 years and the Carolina Mountain Woodturners. We exhibit annually at the Fall Weaverville Art Safari.