Very Large Walnut Kidney Platter Rib

This is a big rib for big bowls. Now, let me be the first to say it, you don't have to use it. You don't even have to be a potter to enjoy it. You could use this as a cheese board (it's finished with walnut oil) or even just hang it on the wall. But if you are a potter the beauty and largeness of this wood rib will light up your imagination and toss you some pretty nice curves in your wheel work as well. Add a great curve to your big bowls. It measures around 10-1/4" long by 7-1/4" wide and 3/4" thick.

I start with an idea and a beautiful piece of wood. I cut out the design on my band saw then carefully refine the shape on my belt sander. Here is where I bring the tool to life with sweeping curves. I make sure there are no flat spots. Then I hand sand until I am satisfied with the fine detail work. Lastly, I saturate the wood with a mixture of mineral oil and beeswax and hand polish. My formula makes the wood glow, fills the surface pores and give it a soft, smooth feel.

I'm a woodworker and a potter, too. Deep in my potter's soul I love combining beauty with function. When it comes to pottery tools, I end up wanting something other than what I can get from the catalogs, so I make my own. Here I can share my pottery tools with you, tools made for a potter by a potter.

I would be happy to make a custom shaped rib or tool for you, if there is a design that you have in mind, we can talk about it.

My tools are finished with a beeswax and mineral oil mixture. They should not be left in your water pail or in the slurry bucket. At the end of a day, wiped down your tools and set them out to dry so you can continue to enjoy their beauty. I can sell you some of my beeswax and oil formula if you'd care to occasionally condition your tools. With this care and maintenance, you should be completely satisfied with the life of your tool.

This rib is about 10-1/4” by 7-1/4” and 3/4” thick.