BUILDER
BUILDER
“When you build and create and make something, transforming it from an idea in your mind to a 3-dimensional object, it gives you a sense of reward, harmony, and satisfaction.”  T.M.

Techniques and Tools

Tim McClellan is a master American craftsman, whose skill is surprisingly diverse: Woodworking, welding, sewing, metal fabrication, leather working and custom finishing. That diversity was initially recognized in 8th grade, where Tim received the year-end awards for both Home Economics and Vocational Agriculture. While Tim may have been a bit embarrassed, Mom was sure proud.
“I have an enormous amount of respect for the craftsmen of yesteryear, who not only handcrafted the furnishings they needed, but also built and invented the tooling they needed to create those pieces. I have an equal respect for today’s tool and technique innovations using CAD programs and CNC routers to build nearly flawless works.” explains Tim.

McClellan selects wood by looking for unique character, and eventually layers on a distinct finish using a variety of stains, conditioners, antiquing agents, and paints. For joinery, McClellan relies on the dovetail, finger joint, mortise and tenon, and dado joints. He has also developed an innovative steel bracket joinery system.

“If I was limited to just four or five tools, the first would be a computer. Number two would be a table saw, then a chop saw, a joiner, and CNC machine,” muses McClellan.

Materials

McClellan loves to play with a variety of materials. He is well-known for his work with barn wood, salvaged timbers, crinkled copper and copper barn wood panels. Tim also uses exotics like burl, mahogany and teak, and beautiful American hardwoods like oak, maple, sycamore, and walnut. Tim also integrates steel into many builds, whether it’s frames for casegoods, furniture bases, handmade drawer and cabinet hardware, or integrated as panels.  

Iconic Builds

Tim’s genius thrives in the face of the impossible build, tackling “it can’t be done” fabrication with creativity and ingenuity. Whether it’s his stunning furniture collection from Ellen’s Design Challenge, the world’s first and only 1940 4WD 4-door Ford truck, or McClellan’s famous expanding round-table, Tim’s products inspire a delightful sense of surprise.  

His astounding collection of builds includes hand-built pool tables, extensive home furnishings, classic custom trucks, luggage, and entire home interiors.

Cowboy Customs Speed Shop opened in 2013, where Tim builds one-off trucks, integrating classic American bodies with modern American muscle, meticulous interiors, and innovative finishes.

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