Seanography

Following a “recycle & reuse” special on BH&G, I decided to turn a leftover piece of decking timber into a play paddle.

The big thing about decking timber is that while one side is flat, the other is grooved (to allow for water drainage). This has made for a visually interesting/appealing toy. Also, because it’s hardwood, it’s surprising heavy, and will sting like a b**ch!

Stained with decking oil (as you do) and finished with beeswax for a smooth, splinter-free finish.

See all at www.alternativeoz.com

A couple of new “off the rack” toys of the Alternative Oz site this week – a lovely red and white hide flogger, and a 2 colour (red, burghandy) heavy suede flogger.

So Leesa’s new toy is finished – an evil cat-o-nine-tails with ball chain woven into the plaits.

Standard large handle with weighted end (though not as much as it needed – the plaits turned out quite heavy).

Plaits are 4 strands of 6mm x 80cm kangaroo string woven over 60cm of silver ball chain, trimmed to make them the same length when finishing.

Attached the plaits to the handle core with pins, then filled the gaps with Araldite (?) glue for extra strength.

My fear is that the plaits will still fly off if swung hard enough, but by then someone should have broken ribs so it might be OK.

This toy was a complete pain in the arse (not to mention the fingers) and I won’t be attempting it again soon.

Material cost – over$100, so retail would need to be closer to $300 to make it worthwhile.