Looking for a one of a kind gift?

If you're looking for a one of a kind gift this holiday season, I'd like to show you something very cool.

Bob Ingersoll and I first met when he enrolled in one of my woodworking classes many years ago. In truth, Bob already knew his way around a woodshop when he took the class. Some people take that first class and decide that woodworking isn't for them. But others find their niche. Bob definitely found his with the design of these banks.




Bob specializes in making heirloom banks out of old post office box doors, some of which date back to the late 1800's. These one-of-a-kind boxes have wooden cases built around the door, and feature a very nice coin slot plate on top.



On the bottom of each bank, Bob writes the combination for the door lock. Dial in the correct numbers and the door opens to reveal the inside of your bank.


You didn't really think I was going to show you my combination, did you?


Check out the detail on the front of this particular door.


Bob constructs these boxes out of various woods - anything from maple, walnut, cherry, or wormy chestnut - to some exotics like Brazilian cherry and bubinga. His finishing technique (Watco, of course!) is superb.

What did you expect? I taught him!

Talk about the ultimate gift for the person who has everything - a bank that matches the wood in their home. Or their desk. Or their office at work.

Now I'm not just bragging about him because he's a friend. And I certainly don't have any financial stake in his business. I'm writing about his pieces because they're very well made, quite unique, and are sure to become one of those items you can pass down through the years.


Bob can be e-mailed at ringers234@aol.com. His busy season is starting now, so if you're interested in one of his banks, I suggest you don't delay.