Hi, these are some of the questions I ask myself when designing a piece either for display, or in response to a request.
First: Who is the piece for? Obviously if it's for yourself, you can skip this bit, but, if it's for a gift or for sale you need to take into account the tastes of the prospective owner.
Second: What is the purpose of the piece? Is it a utility product such as a serving platter of tray or is it decorative such as a wall clock or picture frame, or a combination of both.
Third: When will it be needed? Obviously the more complex the project, the longer the lead time required. You should also consider when will it be used by the prospective owner? All the time such as a trinket box, or only occasionally such as a cutting board.
Fourth: Where will it be situated? Again, if it is something like a craft caddy it will need to be big, or small, enough to be accessible without overcrowding your workspace.
Fifth: How would you like it to be finished? For instance, cutting boards and serving platters need a food safe finish, whereas a trinket box needs a much harder wearing finish for durability. Would you like a decorative motif, or would you prefer the timber to 'stand-alone'?
Sixth: Which timber style would you prefer? Some pieces require a bold and powerful grain presence such a pine or Mulga, whilst others are better presented in a simpler more even grain such as Jarrah or Tasmanian Oak.
Seventh: Why are you needing this piece? Is it for storage of treasured artifacts, to commemorate an occasion or person, or something else?
Hopefully these questions, when answered will assist you in refining your design. If you would like to discuss your needs, please get in touch so that we can assist.
