Hello everyone, I just wrapped up a bamboo project, and it was fun, challenging, and time-consuming. This was a request from a previous client to recreate a full replica of a dilapidated handrail. I took it down, measured everything, and prefabricated the new pieces off-site. Bamboo definitely works differently from typical wood. It is strong and lightweight, but you have to respect it. Pre-drilling was key to avoiding splitting, and even then, you have to be careful. I also created multiple jigs to drill holes where the smaller bamboo pieces met at different angles. I used a hole saw to shape the ends so the transitions and joints aligned cleanly, held tightly, and followed the natural curvature of the poles. Fresh saw blades are a must since bamboo tends to splinter and peel. I did a light sanding and finished it with a protective sealant formulated for bamboo, which helped bring out the color and even everything out. I also incorporated braided seagrass accents to hide joints and transitions. It added a really nice texture and paired well with the bamboo. Overall, I am happy with how it turned out and would love to know what you think. It was a great change of pace from standard materials. I am heading back this weekend to finish a few sections with more braided seagrass and am considering adding a spar urethane to the seagrass portions for extra protection. Curious what others are doing for finishing and long-term durability with bamboo and seagrass... Update: Project complete; pics added. I decided against the urethane because I wanted the fibers of the grass too remain pliable and I already had a coat of sealer on them anyway; I just added another coat. Thanks for checking it out! -Mark

I finally built an all in one workbench to keep all my woodworking tools on. I still have a few things left to do on it. Need to add some trim on the top and add some t-track on the top. Sorry for the mess. Its still being organized while building a few projects.

One of the latest bowls I've been working on.

I finally got my Christmas projects video up and running. These are 5 projects, some of which are rather unique, which I think will sell. If you're still working on stuff for the local Christmastime crafts fairs, this video might be just what you've been looking for. But then, if you're just looking for some Christmas woodworking projects for home, family and gifts, it will work too. I'm giving some of these as gifts.

As the guy that built them, I saw so many flaws to the point I almost told the client I’m going to go get some pre made boxes. But in the end they were extremely happy with them and I realized I’m more critical of myself than anyone else will ever be. Guess that’s why we are all here right, to get better? Happy Saturday everyone, hope everyone’s projects are going smoothly for them. Also side note, if anyone has ever built a desk I could use some pointers. Had a church commission me for one so now I’m on the hook😬