Q: What kind of wood is used?

A: Bass wood is used because the grain is even and it is relatively soft, making small intricate carving possible.

Q: How is the wood finished?

A: The primary finish is Teak Wood Oil. It penetrates the surface increasing the wood's strength and durability. Four to five coats are applied.

Colors are provided by MinWax penetrating wood stains. The may be applied onto bare wood for more obvious colors or after the Teak Oil for more subtle shades.
The final finish is a polish of wax.

Q: How long does it take to do a staff?

A: Since this is a creative process of creating images for your stories and integrating them into the wood, four to six months is a good estimate. Some may be a bit faster, some a bit slower. This is a special and unique creation designed for you.

Q: How are the images for My Wisdom Staff created?

A: After we talk and I listen to your stories, your history, your family, your passions and delights, I find images that fit what you have described. Many sources can be used from your art and creations, if available, from images around us, from visual and three dimensional art, and from some of my symbols that you have seen.

I generally start with a symbol for the top and the bottom of the staff and put the handhold in the and middle. Other carving are placed generally from past at the bottom to goals and aspirations at the top.

Q: After you have carved my staff, how can I feel it is mine?

A: I understand that the staff is YOURS, that I am only the 'middleman', so to speak. Therefore I send a knife with your staff so you can add to it as you see fit. I also create a 'secret space' into which you can place a small paper or object, known only to you. It is your staff.