Stands & Pouches: Scott Tinker Amboyna Burl,Wenge, Big Leaf Maple Burl 3 Pipe Stand

Professional opera tenor soloist turned woodworker Scott Tinker takes a very hands-on approach to his craft, as in, wherever feasible he favors actual hand-tools over powered tools; creates his own varnishes from natural, raw resins and oils; and champions extra-fine hand planing over sanding when it comes to producing a superior finish. The planing technique is particularly noteworthy, as it does a wonderful job of bringing out a wood's potential for reflective properties, and a beautiful shimmer — as Scott points out, even fine-grit sanding will leave a wood's surface "fuzzy" at a microscopic level, diffusing the light that strikes it.

In this three-pipe stand, Scott's preference for planing shows off both the darkly-grained wenge used for the frame itself, and a great sense of depth in the amboyna burl. This stand rests on a handsome, organically shaped platform of richly patterned maple burl, making for a balanced contrast with both tone and line.