fbpx

In Focus: Guided by the Grain

Local woodworker puts positive energy into artistic pieces

By Greg Lindstrom
Jacob Comer uses a Dremel to carve a bear claw into a custom coffee mug. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon

Using a Dremel, Jacob Comer cuts jagged lines with rough edges into an otherwise smooth block of black walnut. At first glance, it appears the piece might be ruined, but Comer has a vision. Combining an epoxy solution with crushed turquoise flecks, Comer fills in the gaps. The end result is a turquoise scar that appears as if it grew naturally in the wood.

Many customers are afraid to touch Comer’s unique, artistic woodwork in fear of causing damage, but he makes his art to last. This particular piece, for instance, will be used as a cutting board.

“Everything I do is functional, period. Wood, period. Art, period,” he says.

In addition to wood, Comer fills his small shop in Coram with an infectious laugh and a positive attitude.

“If I ever have a bad day I actually won’t even touch the woodwork,” Comer says. “I want every drop of positivity to be in the work that I do. It challenges me daily to become a better person and to keep pushing beyond to see what I can do that maybe nobody else has done.”

See more of Comer’s woodwork at www.thewoodworkingincident.com.