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It's Finally Complete!

Updated: Jan 12





It has been a long journey but now that it's done, I am very happy with the result!



Here is a picture with the base removed. I think this is the best look and likely the way Melissa and Ben will use it.
Here is a picture with the base removed. I think this is the best look and likely the way Melissa and Ben will use it.


This thing can hold some drinks! I loaded 1 case of beer and three bags of ice and it's barely covering the bottom.
This thing can hold some drinks! I loaded 1 case of beer and three bags of ice and it's barely covering the bottom.


I braced the lid for sturdy opening so it can be used for all kinds of uses from glasses, wine or appetizers.
I braced the lid for sturdy opening so it can be used for all kinds of uses from glasses, wine or appetizers.


The lid customization worked out nicely.
The lid customization worked out nicely.


I also can see this item taking center stage inside in a bar setting!
I also can see this item taking center stage inside in a bar setting!
You could easily load the lid with your favorite bourbons.
You could easily load the lid with your favorite bourbons.


The personalized lid showcasing Ben's Greenville County Special Operations insignia was a great idea and I am glad to have added it.
The personalized lid showcasing Ben's Greenville County Special Operations insignia was a great idea and I am glad to have added it.

I can't thank Alex Contreras at Almighty Garage for his help making the internal metal liner! It's expertly made.
I can't thank Alex Contreras at Almighty Garage for his help making the internal metal liner! It's expertly made.



Here is how I reinforced the lid so it can handle the weight when it's open.
Here is how I reinforced the lid so it can handle the weight when it's open.

This is great for pool time!
This is great for pool time!


What did the whole thing cost?


  • $150 in metal bending tools

  • $ 83 in 23 gauge galvanized metal

  • $250 for Almighty Garage's service

  • $141 for the first flag, baltic birch sheet and epoxy

  • $250 for P2K finishing

  • $322 for additional flags, baltic birch sheet and more P2K

  • $277 for the base, insulation and other hardware.

  • $246 for the mahogany base and wheels

  • $ 15 for the test board for finishing pigment

  • $180 for the mahogany lid and finishing pigment


Grand Total Not Counting Shipping - $1,914

What is the next stage?


Package it up and ship to Melissa and Ben! Then it's on with the 2026 Winner! Look for the upcoming blog kicking off that one!

Have any questions? Ask away!


Mark Petrilla, Gorilla Bark Studio's

Paying tribute to those who keep us safe.



6 Comments

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melissamcelroy
Jan 12
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Absolutely incredible! I am blown away and can’t thank you enough! You can tell how much thought, effort, and care went into this project. This has meant so much to us!! Thank you!!

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Mark Petrilla
Jan 12
Replying to

My pleasure.


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dhollis
Jan 12
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Mark your work is incredible! I know you put alot of Love and Hardwork in your pieces. The cooler piece is so beautiful!!

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Mark Petrilla
Jan 12
Replying to

Thanks for the comment! Yes this took a lot of time and work. It pushed me to the edge of my skills. I did some things wrong but I learned a lot.

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Emmett
Jan 12
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Iooks great Mark!

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Mark Petrilla
Jan 12
Replying to

Hi Emmett, I am glad you like it!


Mark

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