We can’t make cookies fast enough… Cookies are what we call cross cut log slices. Folks use cookies for any number of decorative purposes, brides buy them 30 and more at a time! Small “coaster” size ones sell for $1 to $3 each, candle holders $5 to $10 each and cake platter sized ones $25 to $50 each. We also make them into lazy Susans, signs and even table sized ones.
The smaller ones aren’t lucrative enough to spend much time on, so I was trying to figureout a way to improve throughput… My first idea was to make a holder to simplify re-facing the rough chainsaw cut using the bandsaw. My holder used embedded bandsaw blade pieces to grip the cookie and prevent the part from “spinning”and causing all kinds of havoc. This holder/jig made very nice looking parts upto 10” or 11” but still not fast enough. Also, the chainsaw cut with trim cuts gave us about 50% sawdust!
The version2 jig eliminates the chainsaw cuts… this “carriage” holds the entire log! Four foot and even longer tree/limb sections are accurately and reliably held, making quick work of an order with comparatively little waste. The carriage/jig is guided by the bandsaw miter gage slot and rolls on a couple of lawnmower wheels.
My jigs were modeled in SketchUp, imported into V-Carve Pro and cut from Baltic birch on the Bot…
Cookies over 10 or 11 inches in diameter still have to be surfaced on the Bot and their price reflects this! If demand continues, we may have to look into a larger capacity bandsaw…
SG