Tobi A.'s review

For Kanemaker Studios

• Sep 7th 2015

One of the things I appreciated the most about Robert was that he listened to me. He heard not only my challenges, but also my preferences regarding the aesthetics of the cane/walking stick.

As he came up with ideas and materials that would satisfy both functonality and aesthetics, he kept in touch. We talked by phone, text and email.

Although the timeliness of delivery was later than originally estimated, that was because Robert really went out of his way to deliver something way beyond both our expectations in the very beginning. And I loved when he'd call to tell me his solutions to questions I had, and how they fit in with my wishes beautifully.

Example: I wanted a stick that did not look brand new. I wanted it to look like it had been found behind the door in a ghost town, like it had been well used and well worn and left in the sun baking for forty years. Well obviously it is gorgeous - rosewood, copper and brass. It looks new, but not crass. When I told Robert I had concerns that it might be slippery, he found a box of ancient ulpholstery round-headed nails in an old hardware store in town, and patterned them on the stick so I could grip them and not slide.

Robert made a cane version and a convertible longer version. I had told him I talk with my hands at public speaking events. The longer version has a small crutch at the top, NOT to use as a crutch, but to hold me when speaking so I can use my hands. I say that Robert gave me my hands back and for that I will always be grateful.

As the project progressed, I could hear in his voice that Robert was very proud of his work, and I felt so special and cared for because he was making me a piece that he cared about. It is difficult to admit that you need help, but Robert has made me feel so proud to be using a walking stick that he is proud to have made. It is so beautiful, so gorgeous, understated but made of the most beautiful wood, the bands of copper and brass compliment the wood beautifully.

I have been using it only a week and I have gotten so many compliments. But truly, it's not just the craftsmanship, it's the caring of Robert that made this a good experience. I would recommend him without question, and I would recommend CustomMade without hesitation.

I am beyond thankful for both the experience, and the product. Thank you.

Tobi Alfier