Author: Dawn Cowan

  • Why Customers Keep Coming Back to Sarkanys Rising Handmade Wood Art

    There’s something that happens when someone brings home their first piece from our workshop. Maybe it’s a Designer Style Pen Set they picked up at the Tucson Celtic Festival, or perhaps a handcrafted Cherry & Walnut Yarn Bowl that caught their eye online. What starts as “just one piece” often grows into something deeper — a collection, yes, but really a connection to the stories behind each creation.

    It’s not just about the wood, though we’re pretty particular about that. Rex sources materials from trusted suppliers like Cook Woods and Woodworkers Source, but some of our favorite pieces come from the most unexpected places. That gorgeous mesquite bowl on your kitchen counter? It might have started as a chunk of wood Rex rescued from a construction site or even the side of the road, seeing potential where others saw waste.

    Dawn often tells customers, “Once you feel the weight of a well-balanced knife or see how a Jupiter Pen glides across paper, you realize these aren’t just things. They’re tools for living beautifully.” And she’s right. There’s something about holding a piece that was turned by hand, where every grain pattern tells a story, that changes how you think about the objects in your home.

    Our repeat customers — and we’re blessed to have them — often say the same thing: “Every holiday & every special occasion, I check your shop first.” We love hearing that because it means we’ve done more than just sell them something. We’ve given them pieces that become part of their daily rituals, their family stories.

    We design with that in mind — not to make people buy more, but to create pieces that inspire that feeling of “my sister would love this” or “this would be perfect for Dad’s workshop.” Every Live Edge Bocote Lamp, every Decorative Bottle Stopper, every bowl turned from Australian red gum burl is made to spark that connection.

    Because when you choose handmade, you’re not just buying a product. You’re investing in craftsmanship that honors the wood’s natural beauty, supports veteran-owned small business, and brings something genuinely unique into your world. And that’s a story worth collecting.

  • How to Choose the Perfect Artisan Gift Set for Anyone

    How to Choose the Perfect Artisan Gift Set for Anyone

    The perfect gift set doesn’t start with browsing our website or walking through our festival booth. It starts with thinking about the person you’re shopping for — really thinking about them. What makes them smile? What are their daily rituals? What would make them feel seen and understood?

    We’ve learned that the best gifts aren’t necessarily the most expensive or elaborate ones. They’re the ones that make someone think, “They really get me.” That happens when you match the gift to the person’s soul, not just their hobbies.

    Take the writer in your life. Sure, you could go for the obvious choice — a Designer Style Pen & Letter Opener Set or our fantasy-worthy Jupiter Pen. But dig deeper. Is this someone who loves the romance of analog writing, or someone who appreciates functionality above all else? A dreamer might fall in love with the Jupiter Pen’s mystical name and stunning resin work. A pragmatist might prefer the clean lines and perfect balance of our Executive Style pen set.

    For the person who loves to entertain, think about their style. Are they the type who throws elaborate dinner parties, or do they prefer intimate gatherings? A Romeo & Juliet Cutting Board paired with Decorative Bottle Stoppers works for the formal entertainer. For someone who’s more about casual wine and cheese with friends, maybe a set of Cheese & Cracker Boards.

    The maker or crafter in your life presents wonderful opportunities. That Cherry & Golden Walnut Yarn Bowl isn’t just about organizing their supplies — it’s about honoring their creative practice. Add a matching Cherry Crochet Hook, and you’re celebrating not just what they make, but how they make it. You’re saying their hobby matters enough to deserve beautiful tools.

    We see personality in wood choices too. Some people are drawn to the dramatic contrast of walnut with its rich browns and striking grain. Others prefer the warm, consistent glow of cherry. Bocote lovers tend to be bold — they’re drawn to that wood’s dramatic black streaking and exotic origins. Pay attention to what catches their eye when you’re together.

    Dawn’s resin work opens up even more personality matching. Someone who loves ocean colors might be drawn to blue and green swirls. A person who’s earthy and grounded might prefer the warm oranges and golds. The bold personality who’s never met a color they didn’t like? They’re perfect candidates for our most dramatic multi-colored pieces.

    The key is thinking beyond the obvious. Yes, the cook needs kitchen tools, but what kind of cooking do they love? The person who bakes bread every Sunday might treasure a handcrafted rolling pin. The one who’s all about fresh ingredients might prefer a beautiful cutting board that makes vegetable prep feel special.

    Sometimes the best gift sets combine the expected with the surprise. A pen for the writer, yes, but also a beautiful letter opener that makes even opening bills feel ceremonial. Kitchen tools for the cook, but also a decorative piece that brings beauty to their workspace even when they’re not actively cooking.

    We create from premium materials woods sourced from Cook Woods and Woodworkers Source, resins from Alumilite with micas from P-Town Subbie. Each set is as unique as the person receiving it.

    Because the best gift sets aren’t just random pairings of related items. They’re curated collections that say, “I see who you are, I celebrate what you love, and I wanted you to have something as special as you are.”

  • 🪵 Do Handmade Shops Even Offer Guarantees?

    We Do.

    If you’ve ever wandered through a craft fair or browsed a handmade marketplace online, you’ve probably asked yourself: “What happens if this breaks?” It’s a fair question — and one that most people assume comes with a shrug and a “you’re on your own.”

    But not at Sarkanys Rising.

    We believe that offering a real guarantee isn’t just possible in the handmade world — it’s essential. Because when you invest in something crafted with care by our hands, it should come with more than just beauty. It should come with trust.

    Why Guarantees Matter in the Handmade World

    In a sea of mass-produced items with 30-day return windows and call centers, handmade work can feel like the wild west. People assume that “handmade” means “no take-backs,” and that any defects are just part of the deal.

    But here’s the truth: Handmade doesn’t mean fragile. And it definitely shouldn’t mean risky.

    At Sarkanys Rising, we see our work as functional heirlooms — meant to be used, loved, and passed down. Our mission is simple: nothing will ever be the same, and our pieces are as distinctive as our customers. That kind of promise needs more than craftsmanship. It needs commitment.

    What We Guarantee (and Why We Can)

    We stand behind every piece we make, and here’s what that looks like:

    • Lifetime guarantee on all pens. If something goes wrong, we’ll fix it. No fine print.

    • Coverage for defects in materials or workmanship on all other items, as long as they’re used and cared for properly (translation: please don’t put our handcrafted cutting boards in the dishwasher).

    • Easy repairs or replacements when needed. Sometimes a customer drops a lid or snaps a spoon — life happens. We’ll always do our best to help.

    We offer these guarantees because we know our work. Rex has been turning wood for over 40 years. Dawn sources top-tier materials and creates resin blanks that are both beautiful and reliable. Together, we don’t let anything leave our hands that we wouldn’t be proud to stand behind.

    What This Means for You

    It means peace of mind. It means you’re not just buying a beautiful object — you’re building a relationship with people who care. And if something goes wrong, you won’t get ghosted. You’ll get help.

    Our customers often say, “I didn’t expect a handmade business to offer this kind of guarantee.”

    Our response is always the same: We do.

    Because respect — for our craft, for the materials, and for the people who choose us — is at the heart of everything we make.

    Ready to Experience the Difference?

    So, do handmade shops offer guarantees? We can’t speak for everyone.

    But here at Sarkanys Rising… we do.

    Browse our collection at sarkanysrising.com and experience handcrafted quality backed by real commitment. Have a guaranteed piece from us? Share your story — we love hearing how our functional heirlooms are living in homes across the Southwest and beyond.

  • The Joy of Saying “Yes, I Made That”

    …and then watching their jaw drop

    There’s this moment—if you’re lucky enough to catch it—when someone’s eyes go wide and their mouth falls open just a little. It’s the moment of realization. And if you’re Rex, that moment usually comes right after he casually says, “Yeah… I made that.”

    It surprises him every time.

    Honestly, it took five whole years of people telling him his handmade woodworking was art before he actually believed it. (Spoiler alert: I was one of those people—repeatedly.) It’s been a journey, not just of skill, but of confidence. Somewhere along the way, he stopped seeing it as just woodworking. He started recognizing the craft, the story, the artisan woodworking in every hand-carved spoon, every custom bowl, every intensely detailed piece.

    It changed everything.

    Learning What’s Worth It

    That realization meant letting go of the pressure to carry “filler” pieces just to have more variety. No more grabbing “small stuff” to try and lure people in. We’ve learned something important: if the fine art is strong, it doesn’t need to shout. It just needs to show up—honestly, beautifully, and unapologetically.

    And when someone gasps at our veteran-made art? It’s a little gift in return.

    Yes, there are shows we thrive at (fine art festivals? Absolutely. Renaissance faires? All in. Small craft fairs with no “fine” in the title? Maybe not until we’ve got a motorhome and mobile shop setup.) But now we know where we fit—and where we shine.

    The Work You See and the Work You Don’t

    Rex has stepped up in incredible ways with his wood art pieces lately. The pride he takes in them radiates right off the festival table. He’ll look at something like “Intensity” or a new hand-carved spoon, smile a little to himself, and say those magic words again: “Yes, I made that.”

    And me? Well, I’m doing the same—but behind a keyboard and a camera. The website, the photos, the story you’re reading now… that’s my “I made that.” And when Rex sees something I’ve posted and gasps? That’s my moment.

    This journey we’re on—it’s personal, it’s powerful, and it’s full of jaw-drop moments. We’re learning to own our craft, say yes to the right shows, and say “I made that” with handcrafted pride.

    Every piece we create becomes part of someone’s story. Whether it’s a cutting board that hosts family gatherings or a decorative bowl that sparks conversations, these handmade heirlooms carry forward the joy of that first moment when someone realizes the beauty in front of them was crafted by hand, with love, right here in our workshop.

    As always, we’re here if you have questions or just want to chat about wood! Thanks for being part of our story—we love sharing the journey with you.

    Ready to bring home your own “Yes, I made that” moment? Browse our collection of one-of-a-kind wood art pieces, each crafted with 40+ years of expertise and designed to become part of your family’s story.

  • The Ethics Behind the Art: Why Sustainable Woodworking Matters

    The Ethics Behind the Art: Why Sustainable Woodworking Matters

    We believe pretty things should do good, too.

    Ever wonder what happens to that pile of wood scraps at the bottom of the bin? Around here, they don’t get tossed — they get transformed.

    At Sarkanys Rising, sustainability isn’t a checkbox. It’s a mindset, a material source, and honestly, sometimes a scavenger hunt (looking at you, Rex, and that roadside fruitwood bedframe you turned into candleholders). We’re not purists — we don’t only use reclaimed or recycled materials — but we are intentional. Thoughtful. And pretty darn scrappy.

    How Our Eco-Friendly Workshop Transforms Waste into Art

    Let’s talk about what really happens in our sustainable woodworking studio. Rex is the champion of salvaging — he brings home quality wood he’s found roadside or rescued from dump piles. From hybrid pen blanks to that ambitious tabletop made entirely of offcuts (that I still haven’t made), nothing gets left behind if he can help it.

    We purchase boxes of cutoffs from lumber mills, and Rex creates handles, bottle stoppers, and cabochons from what others consider waste. It’s like a treasure hunt where the prize is always something beautiful waiting to emerge from discarded materials.

    Recycled Resin Art: Dawn’s Sustainable Magic

    Dawn’s resin work doesn’t just sparkle — it saves. She takes old resin and transforms it into entirely new blanks for Rex to work with. (And if she ever gets her hands on a shredder that can handle hard plastic, watch out — waste doesn’t stand a chance!)

    But here’s where it gets really interesting: when wood is too damaged or punky to use traditionally, Dawn steps in with resin stabilization. Those lightning-struck lilac pieces, the forest-green walnut recovery French Rolling Pin, and all those gorgeous stabilized maple and buckeye burl pieces? They’re not just beautiful — they’re rescued from what would have been the burn pile.

    Paladium & Gold Fountain Pen

    From Scrap Wood to Stunning Centerpieces

    One of our favorite success stories? The piece we call “Intensity,” carved from leftover padauk scraps (we have more than a few of those) and joined with oak from another project. It’s bold, rich, and has the kind of story you can only get from materials that lived a life before becoming art.

    This is what separates handmade sustainable art from mass production — every piece has history, character, and purpose beyond just looking pretty on your shelf.

    The Environmental Impact of Choosing Handmade

    When you choose reclaimed wood art over mass-produced furniture, you’re making a statement. You’re saying that forests matter, that craftsmanship has value, and that beautiful things don’t have to come at the earth’s expense.

    Every salvaged piece of wood we use is one less thing in a landfill. Every stabilized burl is a tree that gets to live on in a new form. Every recycled resin blank means fewer resources extracted from the earth.

    Why Ethical Craftsmanship Creates Better Art

    There’s something magical that happens when you work with materials that have stories. That fruitwood from the bedframe carries memories of the family who slept above it. The mill cutoffs hold the potential that the original craftsman saw but couldn’t fully realize.

    Rex’s 40+ years of experience means he can see possibilities where others see problems. A crack in the wood becomes a design feature. A knot becomes a focal point. Imperfections become character.

    Creating Heirloom Quality from Rescued Materials

    At the end of the day, our art is rooted in ethics — in making beautiful things and doing right by the planet. It’s about honoring the materials, whether they came from the forest, the lumberyard offcut pile, or someone’s forgotten furniture.

    Because we believe the things you bring into your home should be more than pretty. They should be meaningful. They should do good. And, ideally, they should make you smile every time you use them — knowing that your beautiful cutting board or unique pen once had a completely different life.

    As always, we’re here if you have questions or just want to chat about wood (or resin, or salvage missions). Thanks for being part of our story — we love sharing the journey with you.

  • Handcrafted Kitchen Tools: Why Your Cooking Essentials Should Feel Like Keepsakes

    Transform your kitchen with handmade wooden utensils and cutting boards that tell a story while they work

    Welcome to the heart of your home. (And no, we’re not talking about your fridge, though we fully support that snack life. 😉)

    We’re talking about your kitchen — the place where memories simmer, conversations sizzle, and your counter tops become the unofficial family hangout spot in Tucson and beyond.

    So why do so many of us settle for mass-produced kitchen tools that are, well… kinda meh?

    The Case for Handcrafted Kitchen Tools That Last

    Here’s the deal: your wooden kitchen utensils shouldn’t be the afterthought of your home. They’re not just there to flip pancakes or slice tomatoes — they’re the silent co-stars of birthday brunches, impromptu late-night snacks, and the “famous” recipes you’ll one day hand down to the kids (or at least proudly recite to your dog).

    Think about it.

    These moments deserve more than a mass-produced, big-box-store special. They deserve artisan-made kitchen tools that hold memories right alongside them.

    Functional Art for the Southwest Kitchen

    When your kitchen tools are handcrafted by a veteran — with intention, artistry, and maybe a few good maker jokes along the way — they become instant conversation starters.

    “Oh wow, where’d you get this handmade wooden board?” is a way better dinner party opener than “Cool… plastic.”

    And when they’re made from sustainably sourced reclaimed wood or designed by a disabled veteran artist with a story worth sharing, they’re more than utensils. They’re pieces of functional art that connect your daily life to bigger, richer stories. (The kind your guests actually lean in to hear.)

    Why Choose Veteran-Made Kitchen Tools?

    • Sustainability: Many pieces re-purpose reclaimed wood that would otherwise go to waste
    • Authenticity: Crafted by hand with military precision and attention to detail
    • Uniqueness: No two pieces are exactly alike — true one-of-a-kind artisan kitchen tools
    • Durability: Built to last with the same standards that define military craftsmanship

    Keepsakes You Actually Use Every Day

    Let’s be real: keepsakes are usually things we tuck away on shelves, dust once a year, and promise we’ll “pass down someday.” (We see you, random fancy plate.)

    But what if your keepsakes were the very things you reach for every morning? What if they were sturdy enough for Tuesday’s sandwich prep and special enough for Friday’s charcuterie board?

    That’s the beauty of functional wooden art. It doesn’t just sit pretty — it works pretty hard too.

    Popular Handcrafted Kitchen Items:

    • Custom cutting boards made from desert mesquite or reclaimed hardwoods
    • Wooden serving trays perfect for entertaining
    • Handmade kitchen utensils that feel good in your hands
    • Artisan bar tools for the home mixologist
    • Decorative bowls that double as serving pieces

    A Little Soul in Your Stirring

    Here’s our philosophy in one line: Your kitchen tools should feel like keepsakes because they keep your stories.

    They’re there for your quiet mornings and your loud, bustling holidays. They hold the accidental knife marks and the shine of well-loved surfaces. They age with you. And just like our loyal shop & resin dogs (and cat), they’re always up for one more memory.

    Supporting Local Artisans in Tucson

    When you choose handcrafted wooden kitchen tools from local Southwest artisans, you’re not just buying a product — you’re supporting:

    • Veteran-owned, woman-owned, disability-owned & LGBTQ+ small business right here in Arizona
    • Sustainable woodworking practices that reduce waste
    • Traditional craftsmanship that’s becoming increasingly rare
    • Local artisans who pour their hearts into every piece

    Ready to Turn Everyday Into Heirloom?

    So next time you’re rummaging through that drawer of mismatched, mass-produced utensils that make you shrug… pause.

    Picture handmade kitchen tools that make you smile instead — that feel like a hug from your home, that start stories before you’ve even finished your coffee.

    We happen to know a place where you can find a few. (Hint: it’s right here with us. 😉)

    Shop Our Collection of Handcrafted Kitchen Tools

    Browse our selection of veteran-made wooden kitchen essentials:

    • Custom cutting boards starting at $50
    • Handcrafted utensil sets perfect for gifts
    • One-of-a-kind serving pieces for entertaining
    • Seasonal collections inspired by the Southwest

    Free shipping on ALL orders within the US

    About Sarkanys Rising: We’re a Veteran-owned, woman-owned, disability-owned & LGBTQ+ small business specializing in handcrafted wooden kitchen tools and functional art. Each piece is made from reclaimed wood by disabled veteran Rex, right here in Tucson, Arizona. Every purchase supports sustainable practices and veteran entrepreneurship.

    ✨ Thanks for hanging out in our corner of the internet. If you’ve got a favorite kitchen memory or a piece you’d never part with, we’d love to hear about it. Drop it in the comments or tag us on Instagram [@sarkanysrising] — we’re all about those warm fuzzies.

  • The Real Story Behind Handmade Wood Art

    The Real Story Behind Handmade Wood Art

    (And Why Your Home Needs It)

    Ever pass by a pile of discarded furniture on the curb and think, “what a waste”?

    Yeah… we don’t either. We think, “Ooh, potential.”

    At Sarkanys Rising, we believe handmade means heart-made — and it starts with materials that others overlook. Our workshop is filled with reclaimed wood, rescued relics, and offcuts from mills that didn’t quite meet factory standards. But to us? They’re treasures.

    Where Sustainable Craftsmanship Really Begins

    We’re lucky to work with two incredible small businesses who see that potential too:

    Cook Woods – especially their “Salvaging What Others Throw Away” philosophy – gives us access to exotic and domestic hardwoods that would otherwise be discarded. These aren’t your typical lumber yard finds; we’re talking about character-rich pieces with stories already written in their grain.

    Woodworkers Source – or as we call it, the Tucson playground of possibilities – has this magical $1.99 bin. (Dawn can’t help but organize it while simultaneously loading up hundreds of dollars worth of wood “for future projects.” Rex has learned to just smile and nod at this point.)

    Together, they help us bring sustainable craftsmanship to life, one rescued piece at a time.

    What Handmade Wood Art Really Means

    Here’s the thing: handmade doesn’t mean slapping a name on something pulled off an assembly line.

    It means starting with the right piece of wood — the one that asks to be something special. It means running our hands (and hearts) across every surface. It means Rex spending hours coaxing a bowl into existence because the grain decided to surprise him mid-turn.

    We do have a laser and a CNC in the shop — but they’re assistants, not artists. The wood makes the difference.

    Custom Craftsmanship vs. Mass Production

    True custom craftsmanship starts before the first cut is made. It begins with understanding the wood’s story – where it came from, how it lived, what it wants to become. Every piece of reclaimed walnut from that Phoenix backyard tree, every salvaged mesquite beam, every “imperfect” mill offcut has its own personality.

    Mass production can’t do that. Factories don’t spend time listening to wood grain or adjusting their process because this particular piece of cherry has a knot that could become a beautiful focal point instead of a flaw to route around.

    Why Reclaimed Wood Makes Better Art

    When you work with reclaimed materials, you’re not just being environmentally conscious (though that’s a beautiful bonus). You’re working with wood that has character, history, and stories to tell.

    That dining table made from barn wood? It remembers decades of harvests and family gatherings. The cutting board crafted from urban lumber? It watched over someone’s backyard for generations before becoming part of your kitchen story.

    New wood is lovely, but reclaimed wood has lived.

    The Handmade Difference in Your Home

    At its core, handmade is about connection. Between wood and maker. Between maker and you. Between your family and the piece that’ll become part of your story.

    When you bring one of our pieces into your home, you’re not just buying décor. You’re giving your house a handmade hug. One that’s warm, storied, sustainable — and a little cheeky, just like us.

    Love the story? Share it with a friend who still thinks “handmade” just means “expensive.” 😉

    As always, we’re here if you have questions or just want to chat about wood. Thanks for being part of our journey.

  • What We Love Most About Custom Work

    What We Love Most About Custom Work

    It’s always a new adventure

    There’s something magical about being asked to create something we haven’t ever made before.

    That’s what custom craftsmanship is for us—a beautiful invitation to explore, experiment, and build a piece of functional art that exists for one person, one story, one moment in time. Whether it’s a heart-shaped dual cutting board trophy for a dog show champion, a commemorative pen to mark a graduation, or a memorial urn to honor a life well-lived, every custom woodworking project starts the same way: with a conversation.

    You tell us what you’re dreaming up, and we start figuring out how to make it real.

    Custom Trophy and Signboard Two of our custom pieces for the Heart of America Cluster dog shows – the signboard for Photos by Lennah and the heart-shaped trophy below. Thank you, Lennah, for letting us share this!

    Why Custom Craftsmanship Keeps Our Workshop Alive

    One of the biggest joys of handcrafted custom work? We get to play. New materials. Unusual shapes. Color combinations that would never work in our regular line. Giant projects that wouldn’t fit at a craft show. Tiny details that matter to just one person.

    Honestly, some of our favorite custom pieces are things we’d never be able to sell online or at art fairs. But when someone commissions exactly what they need—it gives us permission to stretch our skills and pour love into something completely unexpected.

    Take our annual custom work for the Heart of America Cluster dog shows. For several years running, we’ve crafted their Best of Breed, Best Junior Handler, and Variety Group win trophies. Each one is different, each one celebrates a specific achievement, and each one gets to be part of someone’s proudest moment.

    Sure, we’ve had our share of trial and error with custom commissions. Sometimes we put our own money into a piece to make sure it’s exactly right, even if it takes extra time or materials. That’s part of the deal when you choose artisan custom craftsmanship over mass production. You’re not just getting a product—you’re partnering with us in the creative process.

    Our Custom Woodworking Process: What to Expect

    We believe in clear communication and building trust, so here’s exactly how our custom work process works:

    1. Let’s Talk About Your Vision

    Reach out and tell us what you’re imagining. We’ll be completely honest about what we can and can’t do with custom resin and wood work. If it’s a good fit, we’ll move forward together.

    2. Materials, Colors, and Design Approval

    We’ll work with you to select specific wood types, resin colors and effects, sizes, and shapes. Rex might suggest techniques that would work better, or Dawn might have ideas for resin combinations you hadn’t considered. Once you approve the direction, we’ll ask for 50% up front to source materials and get started.

    3. Handcrafted Creation and Updates

    We’ll build your custom piece with the same care and attention we give every project. Depending on the complexity, we’ll keep you updated on progress and send photos along the way.

    4. Professional Photography and Final Payment

    When your piece is complete, you’ll receive professional photos showing every detail. Once you approve and send final payment, we’ll carefully package and ship your custom creation.

    5. Our Custom Work Guarantee

    Our warranty covers any manufacturing issues once your piece arrives safely. We stand behind every custom commission we create.

    The Real Joy: Creating What We’d Never Get to Make Otherwise

    We won’t lie—it’s not really about the money (though we do appreciate being able to pay for materials!). It’s about the pure joy of creating something you dreamed up that maybe no one else ever would have thought to request.

    The custom craftsmanship projects we love most? The ones that let us break our own patterns. The ones that push our skills in directions we didn’t know we could go. The ones that come from someone trusting us with their vision.

    We’ve made memorial pieces that helped families heal. Celebration trophies that marked life achievements. Anniversary gifts that captured decades of love. Retirement presents that honored careers well-lived. Each one taught us something new about our craft and reminded us why we do this work.

    Custom Ideas We’d Love to Explore

    Thinking about commissioning something but not sure what’s possible? Here are some custom woodworking and resin art ideas we’d love to tackle:

    • Corporate awards and recognition pieces with company colors and meaningful symbolism
    • Memorial and commemorative items that honor loved ones with dignity and beauty
    • Anniversary and milestone gifts incorporating special dates, locations, or shared memories
    • Unique serving pieces sized perfectly for your entertaining style
    • Personalized desk accessories that make your workspace feel distinctly yours
    • Trophy and award pieces for organizations, competitions, or achievements
    • Large-scale art installations for homes or businesses
    • Matched sets and collections built over time to your specifications

    Ready to Start Your Custom Project?

    If you’ve got an idea brewing—or just a story in your heart that you’d love to see transformed into something tangible—we’d love to hear from you.

    Maybe it’s something completely practical, like a cutting board sized exactly for your kitchen island. Maybe it’s deeply personal, like a pen made from wood that has family significance. Maybe it’s purely celebratory, like a one-of-a-kind piece to mark a major life event.

    Whatever it is, if it involves wood, resin, craftsmanship, and care, we’re probably the right people to bring it to life.

    Ready to start the conversation? Contact us through our website or give us a call. Let’s talk about what you’re envisioning, and we’ll figure out together how to make it real.

    Interested in commissioning a custom piece? Get in touch with us to discuss your vision. From concept to completion, we’ll work with you to create something truly one-of-a-kind.

    As always, thank you for being part of our story. Your trust in our custom craftsmanship makes our work meaningful, and we’re honored every time you let us turn your ideas into something beautiful and lasting.

  • Why Collectors Say It’s Better Than Mass Produced

    There’s a soul to this stuff.

    Ever notice how something just feels different when it’s made by hand?

    You hold it, and you can tell. It’s not just that the wood is smoother or the resin swirls are mesmerizing—it’s that it has a soul. That’s not marketing fluff. It’s the truth we hear time and again from our collectors.

    So what makes handcrafted pieces like ours worth collecting, even more than their mass-produced lookalikes? Let’s talk about it.

    Handmade Means Every Piece is Truly Unique

    We don’t hit “start” on a machine and walk away.

    We work with wood that has history, resin that dances differently every time, and shapes born from scrap that no factory could predict. Even our “sets”—like our walnut and maple kitchen tools or teak desk accessories—aren’t twins. They’re more like siblings. Matching? Absolutely. Identical? Never.

    Take our resin work, for example. Each pour swirls differently. The way purple meets gold in one pen will never happen exactly the same way in another. When Rex works with reclaimed wood, every cut reveals something new—a hidden grain pattern, a story written in the rings.

    And that’s the beauty of it. Real collectors know it’s the one-of-a-kindness that makes a piece special.

    Collecting Isn’t Just for Millionaires Anymore

    Not everyone can afford 800 Warhols. (Heck, most of us can’t afford one!) But building your own collection of functional art—tools you use every day that are also beautiful and made to last—that’s something achievable. And deeply personal.

    Many of our collectors start with one piece. A pen that writes like butter. A bottle stopper that makes them smile every time they open wine. A rolling pin that makes baking feel special again.

    Then they come back. Not because they have to, but because they want more of that story. That feel. That connection to something real.

    The Real Difference: Handmade vs Factory Made

    We’re not here to bash mass production—some of it’s actually quite nice. But here’s the thing: what we make isn’t just better, it’s different in ways that matter.

    Here’s how that stacks up:

    Pen & Pencil Sets

    Ours: Honduran Mahogany & Gold – One-of-a-kind grain patterns, each pen unique in its shimmer and feel


    Theirs: Bamboo and stainless steel, laser-engraved with company logos. Every single one identical to the thousands before it.

    End Grain Cutting Boards

    Ours: Maple & Walnut Checkerboard – Thick, sturdy, heirloom-quality with hand-selected wood


    Theirs: Larger but thinner, unknown wood source, inconsistent finishing

    Rolling Pins

    Ours: Maple & Walnut with Ball Bearings – Hand-selected wood with precision movement, buttery smooth operation


    Theirs: Solid maple but quality varies—some even develop cracks before they’re sold

    Cheese Knives

    Ours: Walnut & Maple Handles with Stainless Steel – Designed to complement other pieces in your collection


    Theirs: Italian olivewood, “made by hand” in China, with advertised pieces that aren’t actually included

    Cabochons for Jewelry

    Ours: Resin Scrap Cabochons – Handcrafted from our workshop scraps, each with unique color blends and sustainable story


    Theirs: Machine-shaped plastic, completely uniform, no variation between pieces

    Each piece we make has texture, character, and story. Their counterparts? Predictable, polished, and everywhere. We are by no means perfect; but our imperfections loan a human beauty to our pieces (and if it breaks we have THE return policy for it!)

    Why This Matters

    Our pieces don’t come off an assembly line. They come from a workshop filled with sawdust, resin drips, coffee cups, and the kind of focused energy that only happens when someone truly cares about what they’re making.

    Rex brings 40+ years of woodworking experience to every piece. Dawn’s resin artistry turns our scraps into something magical. And when you buy from us, you’re not just getting an object—you’re getting a piece of that story.

    Starting Your Own Collection

    Here’s what we’ve learned from our collectors: start with something that makes you smile every time you use it. Maybe it’s a pen that feels perfect in your hand. A cutting board that makes cooking feel special. A bottle stopper that turns opening wine into a small ceremony.

    Then build from there. Match your kitchen pieces. Add to your desk setup. Create your own cohesive collection of beautiful, functional art.

    Want something similar to a piece you already own? Rex takes custom orders, and we’re always happy to work with you to create exactly what you’re envisioning. After all, the best collections tell a story—and we’d love to help you write yours.

    Ready to start your collection? Browse our complete selection of handcrafted desk tools, kitchen essentials, and functional art. Each piece is made to order with care, attention, and the kind of soul you just can’t get from a factory.

    As always, we’re here if you have questions or just want to chat about wood, resin, or what makes something truly special. Thanks for being part of our story.

  • Bar Tool Pairings That Impress at Every Party

    Bar Tool Pairings That Impress at Every Party

    Level up your cocktail hour with handcrafted artisan barware

    Ever thrown a party where everyone actually mingled, laughed, and went home raving about the vibe? If not, it’s probably not your guest list—it might just be your bar setup.

    If you’re anything like us, the idea of going out has lost some of its sparkle lately. But inviting friends over for cocktails, mocktails, and good conversation? That’s where the real magic happens. Here’s our favorite party trick: tell everyone to bring a friend you don’t know. It’s like a potluck of people, and you just might walk away with a new favorite drink recipe and a genuine new friendship.

    But let’s talk about what really makes or breaks cocktail hour—having the right artisan bar tools.

    The Handcrafted Essentials for a Legendary Home Bar

    Muddling with Magic

    Our Enchanted Mortar & Pestle Set isn’t just another muddler—it’s your gateway to herbal infusions, perfectly crushed mint mojitos, and that secret ingredient that transforms a good drink into something unforgettable. Rex crafted this piece from reclaimed hardwood, and honestly? Watching people discover what fresh herbs can do to their cocktails never gets old.

    Bottle Service with Personality

    You’ll want your spirits to stay fresh and your bar to look intentional. That’s where our Decorative Bottle Stoppers come in—each one hand-turned and designed to keep things classy long after the original cork is gone.

    Pro tip: Every beautiful bottle stopper deserves an equally beautiful bottle. We’re big fans of pairing ours with selections from Ink & Oak Wines—because presentation and flavor should go hand in hand.

    Pop a Top in Style

    Whether you’re opening craft beer or sparkling water, our Reclaimed Wood & Resin Bottle Openers are built to last generations and always spark conversations. Each one tells the story of the wood Rex rescued and transformed—perfect for those moments when someone asks, “Where did you get this?”

    Serving Pieces That Steal the Show

    No home bar setup is complete without somewhere beautiful to arrange your appetizers. Our Handcrafted Cheese & Cracker Boards do double duty as functional art and grazing central. Because honestly, your bar tools should be as gorgeous as they are useful.

    The Complete Experience

    Want the full artisan barware experience? Our Exquisite Padauk Wood Gift Set pairs stunning glassware with handcrafted serving pieces. It’s the kind of set that turns your kitchen counter into a showstopper bar setup.

    What We’re Working on Next: Thrift Store Alchemy

    Here’s something we’re excited about—we’ve been haunting our favorite thrift stores for vintage crystal tumblers and old-school bar tools. With some careful sanding, resin work, and Rex’s woodworking magic, we’re giving them new life with custom wooden handles or using them as templates for solid wood versions.

    It’s part of what we love about this work: every piece gets to tell multiple stories—the original craftsperson, the decades of use, and now the new chapter we’re writing together.

    Bonus: Elevate Your Snack Game

    While you’re mixing up something delicious, don’t forget the munchies! Our friends at This Girl Mixers & Snacks know how to complement a great drink with equally great bites. We’re big believers in supporting local artisans—whether that’s in your glass or on your serving board.

    The truth is, we’re not just making bar tools at Sarkanys Rising. We’re creating the pieces that become part of your favorite stories—the mortar and pestle that made that perfect mint julep, the bottle opener that everyone always asks to borrow, the serving board that’s been the centerpiece of countless gatherings.

    As always, we’re here if you have questions or just want to chat about wood (or cocktails)! If you try any of these pieces at your next party, we’d love to see photos. Tag us on your social media or email. There’s nothing that makes us happier than seeing our work become part of your celebrations.

    Until next time, keep making beautiful moments in your everyday life.

    Ready to upgrade your home bar? Browse our complete collection of artisan barware and serving pieces – each piece handcrafted with care and built to become part of your family’s story.