Posted on May 13th, 2023

Hello and welcome! I'm Joe, the artisan behind Joe Volborth Creations, located right here in beautiful Cooper City, Florida. Today, I want to take you on a journey into the heart of my business: choosing the perfect wood for your custom bowl. It's a process that blends artistry, knowledge, and a deep respect for the natural world.

Understanding Wood Types

Each type of wood has its own unique characteristics, which can dramatically affect the appearance and function of your custom bowl. Here's an overview of some of the most popular choices.

1. Maple: The Versatile Choice

Maple is a fantastic all-around choice for a custom bowl. It has a light, creamy color and a subtle grain that can fit into almost any decor. Its hard nature also means it's durable, making it perfect for a bowl that will be used regularly.

2. Walnut: The Dark Elegance

Walnut is another favorite. This dark, rich wood adds a touch of elegance to any piece. Its grain is typically straight but can be irregular, adding character and individuality to your custom bowl.

3. Cherry: The Aging Beauty

Cherry is a unique wood that darkens with age, transforming from a light pinkish tone to a deep, reddish-brown. This characteristic makes a cherry bowl a living piece of art that evolves over time.

4. Oak: The Rustic Charm

Oak is a popular choice for those who prefer a more rustic look. Its prominent grain and strength make for a durable and character-filled bowl.

Selecting Based on Usage

After understanding the types of wood, it's crucial to consider how you'll be using the bowl.

1. For Display:

If your bowl is for display, you might want to choose a wood with a striking grain or color. Walnut or cherry could be excellent choices, as their natural beauty makes them stand out.

2. For Everyday Use:

If you plan to use the bowl daily, consider a hard, durable wood like maple or oak. These woods can withstand regular use without losing their beauty.

3. For Food Use:

If you're planning to use your bowl for serving food, it's essential to choose a wood that's safe and doesn't affect food taste. All the woods I mentioned are food safe. However, make sure to let me know, so I can finish your bowl with a food-safe sealant.

Customize Your Bowl

The beauty of custom bowl creation is that you're not limited to one type of wood. You can mix and match different woods to create a truly unique piece. For example, a maple bowl with a ring of walnut can be a striking contrast and conversation starter.

Sustainability Matters

In today's world, sustainability is more important than ever. Here at Joe Volborth Creations, I am committed to sourcing wood responsibly. This means ensuring that the wood comes from managed forests where new trees are planted to replace those harvested.

Grain Patterns and Color Variations

One fascinating aspect of working with wood is the variety of grain patterns and color variations that each type offers. This natural diversity can make your custom bowl a truly one-of-a-kind piece. For example, spalted maple has unique black lines running through it, resulting from a natural process in the tree. Or consider a burl from any tree species, which produces an intricate, swirled grain pattern that's highly prized in woodworking.

The Feel of the Wood

Another factor to consider is the feel of the wood. Some woods, like oak, have a more textured grain, while others, like maple, are smoother. If you're going to be handling your bowl a lot, you may prefer the silky touch of a close-grained wood.

The Sound of Wood

Yes, you read that correctly: the sound! Wood is a resonant material, and different types produce different tones when struck. If you're using your bowl as a serving dish, consider the pleasant sound it will make when a serving spoon taps against it.

Heirloom Quality

When choosing the perfect wood for your custom bowl, consider its longevity. A well-crafted, well-maintained wooden bowl can last for generations, becoming a family heirloom. Hardwoods like walnut, maple, and oak are renowned for their durability and can stand up to decades of use.

Custom Requests

Don't forget that at Joe Volborth Creations, I’m always open to custom requests. If you have a specific type of wood in mind that hasn’t been mentioned here, feel free to bring it up. There's a whole world of wood out there, with exotic species offering unique colors and grains. Of course, the sustainability and responsible sourcing of all materials remains a priority, regardless of your choice.

Experience the Process

One of the most rewarding aspects of ordering a custom bowl is the opportunity to be involved in the process. From selecting the wood to discussing the design, it's a journey we embark on together. You're not just buying a bowl; you're participating in its creation. And that makes the final piece all the more meaningful.

Choosing the perfect wood for your custom bowl is a decision that marries aesthetics, practicality, and personal values. Whether you're drawn to the pale elegance of maple, the rustic charm of oak, the dark beauty of walnut, or the evolving tones of cherry, your choice will result in a piece that's not just a bowl, but a story – the story of the tree it came from, of the hands that shaped it, and of the home it will grace.

I hope this guide has helped illuminate the process and sparked your imagination. I'm here to answer any questions you have and guide you towards a choice you'll be thrilled with. After all, the creation of custom wooden bowls is not just my profession but my passion.

When you're ready to start your journey, or if you have any further queries, you can reach me at (954) 649 6176 or send an email to [email protected]. Together, we'll create a piece that's not just a bowl, but a work of art. And remember, each custom bowl is not only a testament to nature's beauty but also a step towards preserving it, as we prioritize sustainable, responsible practices in all we do. Let's create something beautiful together.