The Making of a Tote Road Shorebird

First, the birds are sketched out on blocks of wood. Then, David gives them a rough shape.

The next step is LOTS of hand sanding and shaping. After that, the birds are ready to take color.

The first layer is a coat of primer that seals and protects the wood. A bird like the one you see on the far left will not be painted because of the unusually beautiful nature of the wood's grain. Instead, David will apply multiple coats of a finish that is designed to enhance the natural qualities of oak.

After the birds have been primed, I add the painted details. In the end, each bird is intended to resemble real sandpiper species that can be found on the shores of New England.

David mounts the bird on a genuine driftwood stand and Voila!