This left me feeling a little left out, which I truly do not like when it comes to driftwood projects, and this prompted me to investigate a bit, as my curiosity took over as I relied upon my imagination to form images of what could be. Initially, while viewing samples of driftwood pipes I was most drawn to the non-traditional shapes that some were made out of. We all have a vision in our minds eye of what a pipe is supposed to look like, and these were far from the one I was harbouring. Then I was smitten by some of the discolorations of the wood used and their fun loving names, and then some of the variations made naturally by worm holes, and leftover outshoots of a small branch or two held my attention. A neat endeavour indeed, and I am glad to have been able to lead one driftwood craftsman to another for guidance and information.

I am finding it absolutely hysterical now, in retrospect, how it took years for me to get of my tuckas and acquire new the new space. I actually feel like I will be able to tap into some artistic abilities that I was unable to before because I have the room to be bold, and even make mistakes.

The reason I am writing this down so that in the future, probably in another year or two, if my renewed inspiration for driftwood projects lasts, I will have to consider where to go from here. Whether I build a cabin, rent a loft, or pursue other venues will depend on how things go, but I can say for certainty, if the way I feel today is any indication of my motivation, then the sky’s the limit next go round. But, by putting this in writing I will have more to refer to regarding this topic then a faded memory of it.

And this brings me to the gist of this blog, you see in some of those spare moments at work where my mind wanders I have taken to hoping that I will come across someone looking to employ a driftwood designer. Sure, it is kind of far fetched, but it could happen I suppose. I could do a search for jobs, and find that a new café is being set up, and they want it to have a beach theme. And sure enough, that calls for driftwood galore. Or maybe, just maybe, a new hotel is being launched and the owners want all of the lobby furniture to be made of driftwood.

I guess the whole point of a daydream is to aspire for something to happen that is rather unlikely. And the reality of it is, as long as I continue to hope and dream anything remains possible. The trick is to stay focused on making a go of it, and to make time to participate in the things you love to do most no matter if there is a big financial pay off, or just an enjoyable afternoon filled with driftwood.

It is quite a nice idea, considering that it is been recycled to once again be used in a natural setting where it can be enjoyed both visually and interactively. It provides fish a place to hide, rest, and swim through, and both turtles and snakes use it as a perch. Whereas those looking at the aquarium or terrariums enjoy its ornamental presence.

So happy to see the driftwood live on in one more way, that is both useful and beautiful.

The only requirement being that I stay under certain dimensions, but otherwise, I have free reign. Since seeing the images of the room’s design, and many of the pieces of furniture and art that will fill the space I have decided that a white wash will be most appropriate. As the project unfolds, I may involve other light washed tones as well.

All I can say is that the creative freedom, even on a small scale is refreshing, and well appreciated. This is true as well of the luxury of a large window of time to complete the task. I am certain that I will have loads more to say on this topic in the upcoming weeks, and months.

Other that the wood itself, you can either use glue, twine, or any other material that will hold the shape of your frame together. If you are interested in making the activity one that is more involved then a carving utensil will aid you in making notches in the pieces you have available to interlock one with another. Thus, you can either make bundles of the wood, or interlock them like a log cabin to strengthen the design. The amount of time, and effort involved is entirely up to you.

Unfortunately, there have already been pieces I have designed and sold, or given as gifts that I did not capture in a photo. So, already I can feel the strain of disappointment over that now. Thus, I am committing time next week to building an album with pictures of my driftwood art. I have lined up a professional photographer to ensure that everything turns out well.

Thus, I am sharing this lesson with all of you. Get pictures of your driftwood masterpieces before it is too late. They are like individual trophies, and can also help to serve as future inspiration. Not to mention, they show your personal artistic progression.

No more excuses, even if all you do is take simple snapshots. Memorialize this stuff, because if it is important enough to fill long hours of your life, it is important enough to keep images of too.

Then while basking in the sun one afternoon I thought how nice the proper piece of driftwood would look hanging on the exterior of our house. After putting the correct sealant on the wood it would become the perfect place to hang our wet bathing suits to dry, and raincoats and damp winter jackets too. Then when not in use, it would be a lovely decorative addition. Before I had much time to ponder the task, I was completing it.

One of the best parts was that I already had a nice old sturdy branch to work with. Not to mention that there was no need for me to buy a single element for the project. Considering the only things required were some nails, a saw, and sealant.

Only thing now is that I am itching for another project. I actually wish this last one had taken more effort and time.

A nice place to begin working with driftwood is to make small decorative trees to hang holiday decorations. Thus, for years after you design the piece you will put it to use, and that is a very gratifying feeling. This project will help you to get a feel for working with this material. Spain is a large producer of driftwood with trees scattered across the country. If you are staying in Madrid, you will see many guest-houses and designer luxury hotels in Madrid decorated with natural local driftwood.

In between holidays they make excellent places to hang postcards, or family photos. Simply punch a hole in one corner and thread ribbon, twine or raffia through and create a loop to hang from. Once you master this, the trees will also make very sweet gifts.