Michael's Wooden Working Locks Artist Statement

Michael J. Finkelstein Woodcrafter

I have been an avid woodworker for over 25 years, but it has been only 2 years since I began handcrafting my personal collection of wooden working locks. Each lock takes about 25 hours to create; the mechanisms are made entirely of wood, including the internal springs, buttons, levers, keys and tumblers. I like the fact that each lock I make is unique. I select " figured* " hardwoods with unusual design in the grain, and bring out the detail with hand-rubbed tung-oil finishes. It gives me great pleasure knowing that many of my locks are custom-orders for special events in people's lives and I hope they may become treasured family keepsakes. Many of my locks are designs based on antique locks and mechanisms. I have researched historical diagrams of antique locks and incorporated them into my personal designs. Locks and keys have always fascinated me and I am happy to be able to combine my  love of woodworking with my interests in locks.  I enjoy the challenge that crafting these locks provides because it encompasses both a mechanical and an artistic element. I am proud that my lock collection was featured in the cover of the Lee Valley Tools, February 2002 catalogue.                                                                              DECEMBER 2002 * Please see my Woodworking Resources page for info' on figured hardwoods

Handcrafted in Canada by Michael Finkelstein