Information and Ordering Page
All crosses are completely HAND MADE using both modern cutting tools and old world knives and finishing techniques. Crosses are cut into the two parts (the upright Stipes, or Post; and the Patibulum, or cross arm). The two are joined using the strongest joining technique (called a half
lap joint). Finally, they are sanded and finished by hand.
The woods we utilize are selected both for beauty and strength.
Mahogany We use both Honduras and Meranti Mahogany. Our stock of Honduran Mahogany (also known as Brazilian Mahogany) comes from tropical South America. It is known for use in some of the finest furniture and millwork. It features a very distinguished look. Our stock of Meranti Mahogany has a unique history behind it. The wood I use is a recycled wood which came from the actual decking of an 18th century sailing ship. The ship was retired and taken apart in a shipyard in Virginia. Most of the wood was burned as a heating source for the shipyard workers, but some of the more prized woods were given away to workers who requested it. I obtained the wood I use from the 86 year old son of one of those workers.
Cherry Our stock of Cherry is also from Brazil. Brazilian cherry is a very beautiful reddish brown wood, with an interlocking grain and a golden luster or glow beneath. It is a hard, heavy and very strong wood. Brazilian cherry has been heavily exploited because of its beauty and high value, and is now rare and in danger of extinction outside of national parks and preserves.
Appalachian Red Oak For those who prefer a medium coloured wood and the traditional grain of Oak. This is an extremely hard and durable wood. Harvested in the Eastern U.S.
African Ebony This African ebony wood is mostly black with occasional grey streaks, fine texture and a straight to wavy grain. All wood is air dried (10 years) and is the hardest wood we offer. Also known as African Black Gaboon Ebony Wood. Trees are usually over 100 years old.
Olive Wood The olive tree is native to the Holy Land where it has been cultivated since ancient times. According to historians, the first olive groves took root in the Holy Land and along the coast of the eastern Mediterranean around 4,000 B.C. The olive tree is a slow growing tree. Reaching the age of 200 the trunk disappears, shoots develop at the base of the trunk which eventually grow into a new tree, hence the reputation as the immortal tree. Out of great respect, the people of the Holy Land protect (at times with their lives) the trees refusing to ever cut them down. Our wood comes from the pruning of these trees after harvest, which makes the trees grow stronger.
Hickory (and ASH) This is a very strong and hard wood. It is a lighter color than our other woods, but not as blonde as Maple. Our stock actually comes from the original tree trunk, which we cut into workable chunks by hand.
Maple Our domestic Maple wood is the lightest color of all our Cross woods. If you prefer a “blonde” wood, then this would be your choice. It is a very hard wood with little or no grain.
Australian Lacewood Also known as Northern Silky Oak, this wood is indeed from the continent of Australia. Known for it’s unique fish scale like pattern, this wood makes a beautiful wooden cross.
We offer several custom styles of wooden crosses.
Our STANDARD cross is a traditional 1 ½ by 2 ½ inch cross with very slight rounding of the corners to prevent a sharp edge. Other styles include:
Rounded Ends - All front ends are rounded off for a softer look.
Single Line - A single groove is cut down the center of the Stipes and Patibulum.
Center Square - A small square is carved where the cross is joined.
Center Cross - A small cross is carved where the cross is joined.
Notched Ends - A small notch is cut lengthwise into the four front ends of the cross.
End Lines - A line is cut vertically near the four ends of the front of the cross.
Custom: Call or write us for details about custom services and pricing.
Finishes All of our crosses are hand finished with imported Tung or Linseed oils. Little maintenance is required once you receive your wooden cross. If you like, you can periodically
rub lemon oil into your cross and wipe the excess off with a soft cloth.
Contact us with any questions or comments.
Church Mouse Wooden Crosses
Albert B Cain, Crossmaker
3609 Kim Terrace
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23452-3618
757-486-5016
757-406-3248