About
Hello, I’m Liz Pearson, a woodturner based in rural West Berkshire. My work is inspired by, and created from, the beautiful local woodlands.
Hello, I’m Liz and Welcome to Love Heartwood
I’m thrilled to share my passion for woodturning with you. My business journey into this beautiful craft began in 2017 with a simple desire: to make woodturning accessible to everyone and share the joy of handmade wooden objects. There’s something truly magical about transforming a raw piece of wood into a stunning, functional item with your own hands.
Ready to embark on your own woodturning adventure?
Read on to learn more about my story and how you can start creating beautiful wooden pieces today.
My Mission
It’s increasingly being recognised by scientists that wood has measurable health benefits. Studies have shown it improves blood pressure, heart rate and stress levels. Improvements to a person’s emotional state and level of self-expression have also been recorded. With the spread of urbanisation many of our lives are increasingly disconnected from nature.
So, my mission is clear and heartfelt: to make woodturning accessible to everyone and share the joy of handmade wooden objects.
I believe that anyone can learn this craft, regardless of their background or experience. By offering approachable and enjoyable courses, I hope to ignite a love for woodturning in each person who comes through my doors.
Values
Creavitity: Encouraging imaginative expression through the unique medium of wood.
Mindfulness: Promoting a focused, present approach to crafting that enhances well-being.
Sustainability: Committed to environmentally responsible practices, including planting over 1,000 trees since 2017.
Accessibility: Ensuring that everyone, regardless of age or ability, can learn and enjoy woodturning.
Community: Building a supportive network of learners and enthusiasts who share a passion for this timeless craft.
My Story
From an early age, I was smitten by the process of making and happily spent days recreating the latest make I’d seen on Blue Peter that week. I was lucky enough to grow up in a beautiful part of Scotland called Fife, where my friends and I played imaginative games in the woods, and my family took me for lots of weekend dog walks. I learned the names of the trees and always felt safe and happy there. I believe it was those experiences that gave me my deep emotional connection to wood.
My journey into woodturning began with a simple desire: to make beautiful, handmade wooden objects. So, for quite a few years turning was my hobby. Slowly I began to sell my pieces at local markets and online until eventually I became a full-time turner in 2022.My journey into woodturning began with a simple desire: to make beautiful, handmade wooden objects. So, for quite a few years turning was my hobby. Slowly I began to sell my pieces at local markets and online until eventually I became a full-time turner in 2022.
With a degree in Product Design and over 15 years of teaching experience with all different ages, I’ve dedicated myself to mastering this craft, sharing my knowledge, and inspiring others.
Parenting three sons has also taught me patience, creativity, and the importance of nurturing curiosity—a philosophy I bring into the workshop every day.
Beyond woodturning, my life is filled with music and adventure. I enjoy singing and playing the ukulele, which adds a harmonious rhythm to my days. Sailing offers me moments of mindfulness and connection with nature, mirroring the serenity I find in woodturning. These hobbies enrich my teaching, reminding me that joy and creativity are interwoven threads in our lives.Beyond woodturning, my life is filled with music and adventure. I enjoy singing and playing the ukulele, which adds a harmonious rhythm to my days. Sailing offers me moments of mindfulness and connection with nature, mirroring the serenity I find in woodturning. These hobbies enrich my teaching, reminding me that joy and creativity are interwoven threads in our lives.
Liz Pearson
Timeline
Completed a PGCE in Primary Education
Graduated from UAL with a BA in Product Design
Began my role as a Parent to (now) three sons. This brings much joy, flexes my patience muscle and provides much of the stimulus for my own creativity
Bought my first woodturning lathe and never looked back!
Founded Love Heartwood and began selling my handmade wooden products at local markets and online
Gave my first woodturning lesson at home in my garden
National Winner of the Rural Business Awards in both the Sustainability and Artisan Business Categories
Opened the Love Heartwood Turning School
My Process
Creating something beautiful from a simple block of wood is an incredibly rewarding experience. I love sharing this joy with others, making woodturning accessible and enjoyable for everyone. My teaching approach combines hands-on learning with a focus on safety, ensuring that every student feels confident and inspired.
In the workshop I strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where creativity can flourish. With 15 years of teaching experience and a background in product design, I guide each participant through the process, offering personalised tips and encouragement. Whether you’re turning a bowl or crafting a toy, every project is an opportunity to connect with nature and explore your creative potential.
My work is characterised by its simple forms, celebration of natural materials and an emphasis on tactility. Sustainability is at the heart of my practice. Since starting my business in 2017, I’ve planted over 1,000 trees to create in harmony with nature. This commitment to sustainability extends to my teaching, where I emphasise the importance of responsible sourcing and mindful crafting.
Features & Awards
I’m thrilled to have been featured in various media outlets that celebrate crafts and creativity. From a feature in the globally recognized publication Woodturning Magazine 402, Boundless Magazine, The Crafts Council’s Craft Instagram ‘Studio Stories,’ as well as local publications like ‘The Village Eye’ and ‘Get Reading’, my work has reached diverse audiences. Additionally, I’ve had the pleasure of sharing my story on the ‘Paul Presents’ podcast twice and being included in The West Berkshire Shop Small Shop Local Gift Guide. These features not only validate my efforts but also help spread the word about the joys and benefits of woodturning.
Since starting this business in 2017, I’ve planted over 1,000 trees, underscoring my commitment to sustainability— a value that was recognised when I became the National Winner of the Rural Business Awards 2022-23 in both the Sustainability and Artisan Categories. These accolades reflect my dedication not only to the craft but also to nurturing our environment for future generations.
