Drifting thousands of miles or just a few, Pacific Coast driftwood can literally come from any forest on the borders of the Pacific Ocean. A tree is torn from its roots by persistent storms and is set adrift, carried by currents and wind for years or even decades, and eventually is washed ashore for a time until another storm carries it away to another beach. Until then, it enjoys the Oregon sunsets.
Each piece I find has an ocean weathered rugged exterior and a treasure of grains, undulations, and other surprises lying beneath waiting to be unlocked. The finished piece is curved organically into shapes that create movement along the undulating surface of the wood resembling ocean waves; the inside finish is as smooth as a calm ocean surface and the outside as rough as the waves. Caress the inside surface and feel the finish. I am a very tactile person and I go to lengths to create a micro-finish that you will want to touch. If the wood had a voice you would hear it say, “touch me, caress me”. The smooth surface has a calming effect. I have given pieces to friends who were sick so they could hold the piece in their hands and feel the amazing work of Mother Nature. Each piece has knots, delicate grain, unique colors, wave beaten holes and cracks all working together to make each piece a special, a one-of-a-kind creation.
The Wood Grain
A tree shows much of its personality by its grain or rings. Its age, growth patterns over the years and any disease. or infestation it may have suffered. Carefully carving the wood so its personality speaks is primary. Aligning angles of the interior with the exterior with a slant here a curve there brings to life the rich style of the grain. Nine sanding steps creates a glass-like finish and bringing the grain to life.
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The Wood Knots
Knots in wood is the trees creation of limbs and also the knots are burills or abnormalities in the trunk. Both can create magnificent effects in the beauty of the wood. Knots always have a tighter grain for strength which gives more density and a whole different looks and touch to the wood.
The Wood Color
Most varieties or species of wood have have a range of beautiful colors. The reds form the manzanitas and coastal redwoods to the pale browns of the alders and western cedars or the fragrant sandy white of the Port Orford cedar. There is a veritable range of incredible colors throughout the forests and on the beaches.