Though I try to accept a limited amount of restoration projects, I'm finding it more and more of a fascinating way to learn about older decoys, bird carvings and the methods past carvers used to create them. A good knowledge of restoration materials and subject matter is a must.

A key point to the process, is to do the absolute minimum. I'm always trying to make my presence as unknown as possible. It's like a baseball umpire; you shouldn't even know he's there! A valuable antique can be sorely devalued with a bad attempt to repair it. Some things are better of left alone, and worth more untouched.

Unlike most of the original carvings that I do, every restoration presents a new challenge. Without a doubt, it's made me a better carver.

Here are some recent challenges.