Fence Post Snowman Sighting!

Those are cute! The wife and I have been pondering what to take for our AAW chapter Christmas party. Been talking but nothing definite yet. Thanks for sharing and the use of recycled wood.

I too like those. Is it recycled fence posts?

@Tom Albrecht Thanks for your comment.
I use both new and recycled posts. With the recycled posts you need to do a bit more work to make it usable.
The use of a metal detector is most important for finding nails and other metal hardware, and then you need to look for any weathered knots or cracks that can be hiding inside. The wood is free though, and they make some nice rustic snowmen that are great for outdoor decorations, as the wood is already accustomed to being outside.
For the snowmen with the scorched hats I use new wood. It works better for creating the zebra stripes, and about half of those who buy them prefer the fresher look of the wood.
The new posts will get a nice patina in about three years as I don't apply any finish to the snowmen except to the burned hat. I apply a spray sanding sealer to prevent the black residue from rubbing off and getting on someone's hands.

@John Torchick Thanks for your comments. The snowmen are a fun project. They are always a hit during my demonstrations/classes, I think because they're easy to make for both beginning and well-seasoned woodturners.