Wednesday, January 29, 2014

Balancing Wine Rack

I had seen the idea of a balancing wine rack all over pinterest, Instagram, and etsy. I figured it couldn't be that hard to create. So I gave it a try. Here are my results:


 
 Here is how to create your own:
  1. Drill a hole big enough for the neck of the bottle. I used an inch and half spade drill bit.
  2. Cut the wood. I used a miter saw to square off the top and put a 45° angle for the bottom.
  3. Determine the length. If it falls forward, shorten the length or pull the bottle out a little. If it falls backwards, push the bottle in or lengthen the board. Errrrr... start with something longer and work your way down since I don't know how to lengthen the board.
After creating half a dozen of these I have determined one thing: there is no magic length. Every single one has a different length from the hole to the base. Overall they are between 8" and 12". Also, if the board is thicker you have a larger area to balance on (making it easier).
 
How does it work?
Center of gravity. The weight of the wine bottle is centered over the base of the wood.
 
Does it work with any bottle?
Probably. The ones I have created are designed to work with a 750mL bottle of wine. I have tested them with several different bottle type but it may not work for all of them. I am certain it won't work with the larger bottles of wine. Maybe that will be my next project...
 
Does it work with an empty bottle?
It is possible. The one pictured in the second picture works well with a full bottle, half a bottle, and an empty bottle (when you use the cork to hold it). With a thicker piece of wood and the ability to shift the weight by moving the bottle in and out of the hole, it is possible.
 
Do you want one?
Email me for pricing and availability: palletsbypapa@gmail.com
All orders are custom made to order so contact me and we can discuss what you want.

Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Beer Carrier

While browsing through Pinterest months ago I saw this pin and knew I wanted to recreate it. I decided to make it as a Christmas gift. All the wood used is from reclaimed pallets; the handle was a belt that was no longer being used by my wife. I chose to use a dark stain to allow the belt to stand out. Below is the finished product:
 
Photography by Nichole Haun Photography 
 
 
 
Email for pricing and availability: palletsbypapa@gmail.com