On December 19, 2025 we were out as a family for an end-of-the-school-year dinner celebration for our boys when we received the call from our neighbor that my wood shop was on fire. By the time we arrived home, there was nothing left. Everything (tools, unfinished pieces, aging wood, etc.) was lost in the flames, and now I'm starting from scratch to rebuild a space where I can create again.

I'm determined to take what has been destroyed and turn it into something beautiful. It is a RE-TURNING of sorts.

Many have asked how they can help make this RETURN possible. That’s is very kind. I would like to RETURN the kindness to those who would like to help.

On the north side of my shop stood a tall pine tree. It did not survive the fire, but we kept it, knowing the destroyed pieces of this tree would one day be made beautiful. Here’s what I’ve decided: If you would like to help, I am offering two levels of support, and in RETURN for your kindness, I will make a one-of-a-kind piece from our beloved pine tree. You will not receive this piece immediately, as it will take me several months to rebuild a shop and replace my tools (notably, a new lathe). There are a limited number of pieces available.

• $250 - Small RETURN Piece – These pieces will be smaller, but not less meaningful. Your piece (vase, bowl, pillar candlestick, etc.) will be a one-of-a-kind piece with burn marks to tell the story.

• $500 - Large RETURN Piece – These pieces will be larger statement pieces. Your piece (likely a bowl or a larger mouthed vase) will be a one-of-a-kind piece with signs of the devastating fire.

**** I’ve also designed a limited number of BLACKCONE stickers. These stickers incorporate the fire and our original logo (You can read about our name and logo HERE). The name - BLACKCONE is falling as ash from the burning cone. The price of these stickers will also help in the RE-TURNING efforts.

Our goal has always been to take the dead and discarded and turn it into a thing of beauty. We’re confident this devastating event will be RETURNED to a thing of beauty.