Artistic Expression
Delve into projects that reflect my creativity and passion for art. Each piece is a window into my world, showcasing the beauty of imagination and inspiration.
Wood and Resin Barrel Stave Table
This one-of-a-kind table emerged over time. The process evolved from cutting the round from a dead tree, to air drying, to planing, sealing and eventually filling the center with resin. Then came more sanding, sealing, polishing, top coating with clear resin, and sealing the bark. What? You need a base too. Hmm, how about barrel staves for legs with a Jack Daniels barrel hoop? Charring the barrel staves added an authentic look and using gun bluing on the hardware tied it all together. Ta-da!
No, I had never done anything like this before.
my motto: "Just, figure it out"


A Legacy Gift
I once bought a book as a gift that needed "wrapping" worthy of the antique leather-bound tome. The book was a travelogue written by a group of American Freemasons that had traveled to the Holy lands. Well, the subject matter was obvious and as I was new to woodworking, a presentation box seemed like a good idea. I dreamt of sourcing beautiful woods, masonic iconography, maybe even a hidden puzzle only the learned could solve? Sure, why not. I'd never made a box before, but it would be fun. 14 months later, my second attempt was presented to my brother-in-law at a lodge meeting, complete with personalized marquetry, wood hinges, a puzzle and hidden compartment with Masonic symbols meaningful to the recipient. It was a great learning experience!
© 2025 VdH Pen Studio All Rights Reserved
© 2025 VdH Pen Studio All Rights Reserved


Creativity is allowing yourself to make mistakes. Art is knowing which ones to keep. -Scott Adams


I am always doing that which I cannot do, in order that I may learn how to do it. -Pablo Picasso
Creativity takes courage. It's the leap into the unknown, where the only limit is your imagination. -Henri Matisse
It's not what you look at that matters. It's what you see. -Henry David Thoreau
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