One of the greatest things I enjoy as a professional woodworker and remodeling contractor, are the connections that I have with other artisans and craftsmen. By surrounding myself with other artists, it constantly challenges and expands my creative vision. Among those is a good friend and metal working talent, Andy Parent. Andy's unique vision for metal work has greatly influenced my own ideas for design.

Andy's metal working business, Iron Ox Inc, is located just down the street a couple blocks from my own shop. With his shop being so close, we see each other on a pretty regular basis, and the conversations we have are very stimulating as the sparks of creativity fly.

Andy showing a fireplace screen he is manufacturing for a client

I am fortunate to have had the opportunity to collaborate on some projects with Andy, and we often call on each other to hash out design ideas or to gain a different perspective from a fresh set of eyes.

A design session with Andy Parent of Iron Ox Inc.

Andy has a great balance of technical ability for working metal and artistic madness. If you met him personally, within the first few minutes you would understand the artistic madness comment, but this picture of him with Poseidon's Trident might give you a glimpse.

Andy displays Poseidon's Trident made for a charity auction fundraising event.

To get another look at Andy, his nephew has produced this video as part of his college cinematography course. "The Moments We Steel" by Jared West.

The Moments We Steel from Jared West on Vimeo.

Andy has had a positive and energizing effect on myself as an artist and craftsman. You can check out some of his work at his Iron Ox Inc USA site.

To stay energized as an artist, make friends with other artists. It really keeps the mojo flowing.

Your friend in the shop,

Todd A. Clippinger

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It's Finally Here!

It's the first installment of my discussion with Scott Morrison ~ Finewoodworker. I had a great time talking with Scott and I hope that you enjoy sitting in on our conversation. I must admit that I thought of many more questions after I left Scott's shop. That may be enough excuse to get with Scott in the future for another session;)

In the first installment Scott shares his background in woodworking, what it was like starting a woodworking business, and the role his wife plays.

I hope you enjoy Part 1 and I will be releasing Part 2 soon.

A big thanks to Scott for taking the time to sit down with me during his busy schedule.

Time Is Limited!

Don't forget to get in on the latest special that Scott has offered, it is another "Captain Clippinger Discount." If you purchase the Elegant Rocking Chair DVD and template, just ask for the Captain Clippinger Discount and he will refund $50 on your order.

The normal cost for the Elegant Rocking Chair DVD and template bundle is $185 and you can get them for $135. This offer only lasts until April 30th so be sure to act fast. You can order from Scott's site at Finewoodworker.com.

That's all for now, on with the show-

Your friend in the shop, Todd A. Clippinger,

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