Wood to Sawdust: Meet Larry, Bayview Resident

It all started with a simple curiosity. Bayview resident, Larry had thought about exploring woodworking as a way to learn hands-on skills and to create practical, meaningful items. From the moment he toured Bayview, our woodshop caught his attention- this was something he had to dive into. Hear more about Larry’s journey and passion for woodworking below:

My initial interest in the wood shop was prompted by a desire to explore woodworking for personal use, learn some skills and create useful items. This was probably a result of watching Bob Vila, This Old House, and Ask This Old House on PBS. I was intrigued by the wood shop on my initial Bayview tour; moving here provided me the time to pursue my interests. My first bazaar with its array of craft items sparked my enthusiasm and imagination.

My first item was a rolling planter dolly, prompted by the numerous examples around the terrace in varying degrees of disrepair. A small but appreciative audience encouraged me to seek further challenges.

So, I began investigating YouTube and Google for items that might be salable and within my skill set. Kids’ wooden toy cars and Christmas décor were both abundant in plans and instructions. I have spent many hours since creating massive amounts of wood dust and various toy trucks, cars, rolling things, reindeers, Christmas trees and other “stuff.” I find the work engrossing, calming and fun, while cocooned in my remote and quiet nest.

I have also discovered that sawing a straight line is very difficult, cutting multiple pieces to the same length tries my patience, that final finishing, staining or painting is everything, and I have no shame in copying someone else’s designs. I also greatly appreciate the encouragement, advice and help of the maintenance staff who tolerate me and the real artists in our residence who aid and encourage me. It’s been fun and it keeps me out of trouble!