Makers often end up crafting their own tools, geared specifically to the needs of their work. Carpenters build jigs, metalworkers forge hammers and saws, all sorts of tools get jerry-rigged and co-opted in the pursuit of making.
One of these special, custom tools was made for me by Lee Hale, a maker of magical objects and jewelry, who once upon a time was my aunt Jessica Rose's assistant, years before I was.
She made this for me and a differently-shaped one for Jessica.
It's very small and light, and feels like something you would find in the woods — an acorn or a chestnut.
I'm tempted to make you guess its use...
... it's used to apply tiny amounts of epoxy or glue. What did you think it was for?
Do you have any tools that were made especially for you? Or are you using a tool for something other than its intended use? Tell me about it in the comments below.
I have strong feelings about many of the tools I use. As a maker, these tools are almost as meaningful to me as the things I make. I created #toolsontuesday to keep up the practice of sharing stories about the tools we use and live with.
Every Tuesday, I share one of my favorite tools. I hope you'll share yours in the comments — it feels good to honor these everyday objects.