As I was doing the hand carving for my Granddaughter's Papalo Plaque, I saw a need for a carving mallet, so instead of just buying one, I decided to turn one on the lathe. Since I was turning one, I decided to make two and give on to my son for Christmas. The top (hitting piece) is made of Ipe, a very hard, dence and heavy wood from South American. The handle is made of Purple Heart. I hait to see them used because they are more of a piece of art than a tool, but I will still use it anyway.