This page of the website will be used to feature projects underway at Rafter K Wheelwright. Updated photos will be posted as work progresses and, as these vintage vehicles are completely restored, new photos will take their place.
Franck Calloch from Brittany, France worked as an apprentice with Rafter K for 6 weeks. Franck previously worked in a boatyard building large wooden boats and is now learning the craft of wheelwrighting so he can return to his farm which he works with a team of draft horses and oxen.
External Sleigh Deck
Photo shows the process of extending a sleigh deck from 4' x 8' to 5' x 8' to allow for more comfort.
Small Albany Cutter The seat and back of this light smaller style cutter have been completely re-upholstered in burgundy crushed velvet. The rest of the cutter is in great shape and is listed on the For Sale page.
Albany Cutter
All necessary repairs have been done to the cutter and it is in good shape. Photo at left shows the cutter with two coats of primer and ready for paint.
Light Freight Wagon
Restoration of this wagon involved replacing the felloes on the wheels, replacing the reach and braces, fixing up to a useable condition and then applying a fresh coat of paint. The results can be seen on the Sale Page.
Doctor's Buggy
Rafter K has two Doctor's buggies to rebuild. Photos below show the process of restoring one of these buggies to completion. The process includes stripping down and repainting, rebuilding and upholstering the top, repairing the wheels and installing rubber tires. The leather seat was able to be saved.
