07/20/2026
Families extend their trust and allow me to create a version of a bird they choose and help design*. The design process is my favorite part. Drawing and re-drawing, then adjusting is so fulfilling. In fact, every urn over the past 20 years has been a one of one design. Their pet is special, so too should the design and the craft.
To emphasize unique design I’m now giving the design drawings along w the urn. Not sure what people will do with it but I hope it reminds them of the conversations we had about what made that animal special and what made them a family member. One of one design is important and the inly way I work.
I’m not a prolific carver. I consider myself a Persistent. I’m not an artist. The differences between the two would take pages and land us no where. I have to work at this craft of design, woodworking and painting. And I love it. To focus on any one aspect will make an 8 hour day disappear. And I love that as well.
As Mark McNair says, “just me and my thoughts”.
Three or 4 generations…..or more. That’s how long I expect an urn to have a place within a household. The owner loves the pet and the kids do as well so, they honor it with an urn. Most likely they will pass along the stories of the pet to their kids with the urn as well. So, that’s three and with some love and compassion there might be two or three more generations who give the urn a spot in the house. This is another reason that a well crafted urn is a must. Is there anything else you can think of that might survive 5 generations of family ownership?
Meet Copper. A much loved and galant dog and family member. The family was involved in the design and stance. Then I added something extra. This is where the * comes in to play.
* When I design a bird I want something that is intrinsic to the pet to be a part of the design. A fact that I only share with the owner on delivery day. This facet of design is meant only for the family. I believe it helps them bond with the urn that holds their loved one. To a person, this brings tears of joy… on both sides of the fence.
In this case that intrinsic facet has been built into the keel of the pintail and is the reason for the blue tape. This dog did something typically reserved for a member of the public safety community. That’s all you need to know about Copper. I’ll let the owner share. Or not.
Hollow cedar, walnut tail, glass eyes and oil paint with a white oak keel. AND… (this is a pet peeve of mine) slotted screws. Slotted screws are for furniture and crafted products. Phillips head screws are for the auto industry. Stepping off the soapbox now.
