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We were at the point in the remodel of our study where it was time to start finding places for some antiques and collectables, including this Wizard pencil sharpener. In years gone past, before plastic mechanical pencils replaced the yellow No 2 in our classrooms these sharpeners were mounted to a piece of wood trim, generally either door or window molding above a nondescript metal trash can. Not trusting the modern molding in our house, made of composite material to serve as a long term mount, I sketched up and built this oak mount adding the pencil holder to add depth and to make the piece a little more interesting than a flat block of wood. A quick little build, the biggest challenge was to make it look aged and match somewhat with the oak of most of the pieces in the room. Finished by ammonia fuming with household ammonia ( not sure that was necessary although it did darken the wood) , a coat of amber shellac, then mahogany gel stain wiped on, another coat of Amber shellac followed with a couple of coats of wax.

Thanks for looking..

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Is it functional or art?

M
 

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Nice project!!!!!!!!

Jim
 

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Thanks Jim. It was a quick excuse to be in the shop, and check off one of the action items for my home study remodel. Next and more substantial project is a Stickley drop front desk to complement the National Bureau file cabinet and Globe Wernicke Barrister Bookcase that my wife found for me. The desk will replace the "Sauder" computer desk that I am currently using. As you might tell….I like the old stuff.
 

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Very cool pencil sharpener. You've done it justice with the oak mount. Well done. Experimenting with finishes is fun and a learning experience. IMO the finish turned out great. Keep up the good work !
 

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kdc68, thanks for the comments. I continue to read volumes on finishing and find there seem to be many different ideas on what works best. I think the milling, cutting fitting is pretty straight forward vs the finishing which for me is like black magic.
 

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Next, get into projects with antique wrought iron legs. I have finally sworn off after 3 projects and counseling.
 

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You put the Wizard on a throne!
It's amazing in these days of throwaway products how well some of the older designs/products just seem to keep on going and going!
Nice addition to the rest of your well built products (notice I did not say antiques)!
 
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