WIOTA — Del Norland is preparing for the Darlington pancake breakfast and FFA toy show on Sunday, Feb. 11 at Darlington High School. In his workshop are samples of hardwood and wood working tools, and a glimpse into the toys and creations he is packing for the show.
Growing up a farm kid, Norland has a lot to draw inspiration from. This year will be his fifth year at the Darlington FFA toy show. He, along with many other vendors, look forward to visiting with each guest at this year’s event.
Norland’s love for wood working started when he was only 9 years old and was creating a wood project for 4-H. He admits to not taking any woodworking classes, and said he is self-taught; which means he learned techniques through trial and error. Now, years later, Norland is fine-tuning his craft, making wood carved farm tractors and ‘big boy’ toys.
“I have milk trucks, tractors, backhoes, bulldozers, diggers, pick-up trucks, blacktop roller, LP truck, gravel truck, train engine, caboose and so much more. You name it, I can scale it to size,” Norland said.
Scaling it down means measuring and creating in millimeters. In comparison to the drive-able versions of what he creates, a scale down is hardly the description. Norland said he favors hardwoods as they are more durable and easier for him to work with, although some of the types of woods are harder on his tools and materials that he uses for his creations. He enjoys working with maple, walnut, and cherry, but seems to favor red oak, which Norland said is the second most durable wood.
“It just seems to have more character,” he said.
Lighting and ventilation seem to be of utmost importance while working with hardwoods in his shop. Norland said it is important to wear a dust mask while sanding wood, especially walnut.
“Walnut dust is toxic to breath in — not that any of the dust is good for you, but once walnut settles in your lungs, it’s not good,” Norland said.
Articles of safety measures are along one wall near one of his woodworking tables, which he has a few. A fan or two hang from the ceiling, as several lights laminated the shop.
Norland said that there are several grits of sandpapers that he uses — it all depends on the project. He has a total of nine electric sanders. One is already prepared with 40-grit sandpaper, which is the roughest, another has the smoothest finish, preset with 320 sandpaper, as well as every grade of grit in-between. He also has a special 1200-grit sandpaper.
“It sands as smooth as glass,” he said.
The router bits collection spans more than 150 individual bits. The most common have their own router tables. In addition to all the woodworking equipment are the samples of wood, which is quite the collection in itself. The variety of colors, shades, and knots in the wood pieces, just add to the charm.
In addition to the wood toys, Norland plans to showcase some favorite kitchen items as well. He credits his wife as inspiration.
“It was Rita’s idea for me to make charcuterie boards,” he said.
A charcuterie board is the French term used to describe any natural wood board used to display a variety of cheeses, meats and relishes. Popular in other countries for a number of years, charcuterie boards have only gained popularity recently in the United States. Norland and his wife Rita agreed that the hardwoods he uses are also perfect for bread boards, and cutting boards that will also be on display at this year’s show.
A large draw to Norland’s display this year will be the wood lefse butter knife, which is engineered at an angle. Norland said that the ‘blade’ of the wood lefse butter knife doesn’t touch the tablecloth, if it did, it would dirty the linens on the table. The idea of the lefse wood butter knife was something the couple found while visiting Norway. He said they seem to be quite popular. The lefse wood butter knife should compliment one of the charcuterie boards, adding a final touch to any food display.
All of Norland’s kitchen items are made with a food grade preservative, which he has researched for safety.
Norland and his wife have three children and several grandchildren, one of which favors woodworking.
“My grandson Steven likes to get samples of the exotic woods, and use those to make things. He finds some of the most unique cuts of wood,” Norland said, adding that his grandson enjoys woodworking as much as he does. Norland said it’s good to share the love of woodworking with others, especially those who also love the craft. He added that his grandson is also good at lending an idea or two.
In addition to the Darlington FFA toy show, Norland said he has frequented shows in other areas, such as Argyle, Mount Horeb and, most recently, Evansville. He said he feels most at home in Darlington, as friends and neighbors will be stopping by his booth for friendly visits.
