Handcrafted Lignum Vitae Wood Fid - Rope making Tool

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 Handcrafted Lignum Vitae  5 3/8 '' Fid

uses in sewing, sailing, sail mending, rope making, Macramé, canvas work

Fid:  A fid is a conical tool made of wood or bone. It is used to work with rope and canvas in marlinespike seamanship.  A fid differs from a marlinspike in material and purpose.  A marlinespike is used in working with wire rope, may be used to open shackles, and is made of metal. A fid is used to hold open knots and holes in canvas.  A fid is used to open the "lays", or strands of rope, synthetic or natural, for splicing said line.

The fids I make are one of a kinds made from various hardwoods.   Mine are finished with a varnish and then buffed and waxed with carnauba wax.

The Wood:  Argentine Lignum Vitae - (Bulnesia Sarmientoi)  A medium sized tree found growing along the Argentina-Bolivia-Paraguay border. Common name is palo santo (Spanish for "holy wood").  It may also appear named as Paraguay lignum vitae, since it has properties and uses similar to the lignum vitae trees of genus Guaiacum.  The heartwood is brown, black, and green (varying in color from light olive green to chocolate brown), with streaks.  The basic specific gravity of this wood is between 0.92 and 1.1 g/cm³.

All Tropicalbloom handcrafted wood items are made from all natural wood, gemstones and metal.  No artifical or faux products are used in the creation of any of our items unless specoicically stated in the auction (example : Corian Muddlers).

All items are one of a kind works of art.

Many years ago my grandfather Paul R. Smith introduced me to turning on the lathe. I am at the point in my life that I have the time to rediscover the joy of creating handcrafted wood items.

I use the lathe as the primary tool in the creation of my art and craft. Further work is sometimes done off the lathe. I may carve, burn, texture and dye some pieces in order to further bring forth the beauty in the wood.

I enjoy sharing the process of creation and hope that by sharing it another generation will carry on the art and craft of wood turning.

I love working with wood; how it feels, how it smells. Above all, I derive great joy in taking this gift of nature and adding the human touch to create beauty.

A Note on Wood

I use many rare tropical hardwoods in the creation of my items. When possible I buy small pieces of wood and cutoffs that otherwise might be discarded. I feel this best uses this natural treasure. I also use a substantial amount of what I call reclaimed lumber. New housing developments and tree trimmers have been great sources for this wood that would otherwise clog our landfills. I have a vested interest in forest conservation and work toward a balance in the stewardship of this resource.

If you have any special requests, please email me,

I will arrange for a private sale through eBay.

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