I’ve been a lifelong woodworker, though it’s fair to say my early years were focused on “2 X 4 technology” with minimal attention to aesthetic appeal. Even today, there is still a strong utilitarian aspect to my work, albeit with emphasis on traditional hardwoods. 

I have been working on the Arch-e-Bench for 10 years. Tired of putting my feet under the couch in order to do sit-ups, I designed an exercise bench made of fine wood that integrates into any living area of the home. Over the years, it has gone through many evolutions pushing the boundaries of achieving minimal weight while maintaining structural integrity and creating an aesthetic form that approaches fine furniture. During this process I added functionality that allows one to convert the ‘Bench’ from a format for doing sit-ups in an inclined position to a level ‘Desk’ position that allows for sitting and working at a desk. The development of the wheel mechanism that extends and retracts to support the dual functionality was a significant innovation.

For performing sit-ups, the wheel rotates and locks foot pedals into place, and the seat lowers in the back. The distinctive arches can be held onto while doing various stand and dip exercises with or without weights. Rotating the foot pedals underneath the bench and raising the seat to a level position transforms the bench into a seat at the table or other areas of a room.

My other passion has been making wood bow ties. I love to see how the different woods express their unique grain and patterns. I’ve come up with techniques to achieve convex and concave shapes, striped inlay and, lately, polka dot patterns. Using light and dark woods for striping creates dynamic contrasts that grab attention and surprise those who don’t realize these ties are real wood. Some of my favorite woods for bow ties are walnut, curly maple, quarter-sawn oak, charred whiskey barrels, yellowheart, padauk, and cedar. Making bow ties is a great way to see the unique character of the wood.