When we contracted Joel Runyan to make a custom radiator cover that matched the others in our house we got more than we bargained for. A neighbor who had custom mouldings made for their house recommended Joel to us. When Joel came over to discuss our project he mentioned that he makes everything by hand. But I didn't truly understand what that meant until I visited his studio.
The day I visited Joel was working on the slats for the radiator cover. I watched in awe as he sawed a thin strip from a 1 by 6 plank and then hand-planed it to the perfect size and curvature of our existing slats. I couldn't believe how well they matched! We had done previous projects where we ordered custom mouldings that came close, but Joel's were an exact replica!
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I was also fascinated by all the old saws, chisels and vintage tools in Joel's studio. Plus I got to meet Fatty and Mr. Lincoln, two beautiful and friendly orange and grey tabbies. Fatty was so friendly I could hardly take a photo without him nudging my hand. Plus I discovered Joel has a background in music theory and is working on a book about Bach... a true polymath!
We had a wonderful experience working with Joel. If you have a project you would like to discuss with him you can contact him at TheRunyanCompany@gmail.com.
A special thanks to our friend Tim who painted the radiator cover. Tim, your hand-working and generous nature never ceases to amaze. Thank you!
