




These are tow very different sorts of ornaments. The Acorn and Cross ornament came about from a specific request. I had a customer request an Acorn ornament from oak that not only had the ornament itself, but had a cross engraved in it. After a conversation about design we determined that simply carving a cross into an acorn was not as dramatic as she wanted. Using a technique called "inside out turning" we made the ornament with the cross as an integral part of the ornament rather than an added feature. This is the result. The Urchin Ornament is more generic. These represent the proximity of the coast to where I am in central North Carolina, and are simply fun to make. The urchin shell forms the bell of the ornament with the delicate cap and finial forming the rest. In some cases they have rings turned on the finial as a final touch.
ShopDog Turnery
I have been making from wood for as long as I can remember. I take a great deal of pride in my work and will not accept a commission if I am not entirely sure I can complete it to your satisfaction. ShopDog Turnery is a one-person, one-dog operation making all sorts of custom items, primarily lathe based. This includes bottle-stoppers, wine glasses (with glass or wooden bowls), platters and plates, bowls, boxes, and whatever else springs to mind.
In addition to lathe work I make various flat pieces; tables, specialty boxes, cutting boards and, again, whatever else springs to mind.
I make for the joy of the making, using sustainably harvested and reclaimed or historical woods exclusively.
Molly was the ShopDog, but is no longer with us. She did all the "RUFF" work in the turnery.
I sent him some old beat up, dried up wood that had sentimental value and he made them into GORGEOUS, unbelievable cutting boards! I am super happy and would use Jim for any job in the future. Thank you!!!!
Jim was very communicative from the start and we were able to watch the progress of our board being made on his Instagram. The board arrived quickly and the work is absolutely stunning. He also included meticulous instructions on how to prep the board before use and how to care for it in order to keep it functional and looking beautiful. The dimensions and details were specific to what we requested. I highly recommend Mr. Barbour for your custom made job!
The wooden glasses are beautiful. I am very happy with them and I know my daughter will love them. They were a gift for her wedding shower. Unfortunately the shower was last week. Did not receive them in time. Had to scramble and buy another present for the shower. I did make it clear that I needed them by a certain date. Oh well. They are beautiful though.
Working with Jim was truly a pleasure. He made my vague vision truly take life. My fiancée and I are impressed with the craftsmanship and quality of the pieces!
Jim built a custom magnetic marble run for us - to be used on a vertical magnetic surface like a refrigerator. It's awesome! He created exactly what I had envisioned using high quality hardwoods and super strong magnets recessed into the wooden "tracks". Jim provided great communication and was easy to work with every step of the way. Although it's technically "for the kids" I'm excited to break out the marble run and play with it myself. Fun for all ages!