Thomas Makosky is a quiet man with an easy laugh and a quip to fit most situations.  “I find when I get bored, if I sit still long enough, it goes away,” he says.  Makosky has become a master of a decorative woodcarving technique known as chip carving through the age-old method of experimentation and experience. Tom uses objects he designs and creates in his workshop (although Tom is personally against work) as canvases for his intricate, hand drawn patterns. His methods assure that each piece, while perhaps a variation on a theme, is itself unique. These truly one of a kind boxes, coasters, cheeseboards and other custom objects are presented for your enjoyment in 7 different finishes, adding another layer of variety to his palette.

            Each piece begins with Tom designing a one-of-a-kind pattern using compass, straight edge and pencil. After deciding which pieces to chip away, he uses a specially designed knife and carefully slices away the wood. Following this, the piece is stained and finished with two coats of polyurethane before the boxes are provided with a felt lining. After this process, every piece is truly original.

           Tom’s craft was recognized for its originality by the Arts Illiana Artists’ Choice Award at the 2007 Terre Haute Street Fair . His creations have been featured in several juried Art and Craft Fairs throughout the Midwest. He now demonstrates chip carving at Rockome Gardens.