This shot glass is turned from spalted hickory, a hardwood transformed by natural fungal lines that create bold, high-contrast patterns throughout the wood. The coloration—warm yellows layered with dark, inky markings—earned this piece its nickname, The Banana Slug, a playful nod to its striking, organic appearance.
Spalting occurs when fungi begin to break down the wood’s fibers, leaving behind dramatic lines and color variation that can never be replicated. In this piece, those natural markings flow vertically along the form, giving the surface a sense of movement and visual energy while preserving the strength and structure needed for functional use.
The glass is finished by hand with a food-safe oil and wax blend, enhancing contrast and bringing depth to the grain while leaving a smooth, balanced feel in the hand. Each angle reveals new details, making this a one-of-a-kind example of how natural process and careful craftsmanship come together in a simple, timeless form.
