When I decided to see if people were prepared to part with money for my wood turning back in the Autumn of 2017 the last thing on my mind was ‘my mission’ or a ‘values statement.’ However, as I’ve developed the business I’ve faced choices and realised that my way isn’t everyone’s way of doing things. So I thought I’d share with you what’s important to me. Because that’s what buying from a crafts person is all about isn’t it? That personal interaction and individual point of view.
Natural materials are so much healthier and calming than synthetic ones. I believe we can connect with the natural environment through wooden products. That’s why I work with British woods like Ash, Silver Birch, Yew and Oak. I want people to feel the wood beneath their fingers, not a layer of acrylic lacquer. That’s why I don’t use the standard finishing products which are variations of plastic. My products are finished with natural hemp oil or a plant based wax oil which allows the wood to retain it’s essential character.
My design is inspired by the natural world too. I create tactile, organic shapes which feel comforting and calming. I want my products to act as a form of tactile mindfulness to help you feel ‘present’ in Daily Life.
My approach is very down to earth. I’m a great admirer of the Art and Crafts Movement and their ideas of truth to materials and form. I try to follow these ideals by championing wood and not hiding it beneath finishes that make it look like another material.
The most important thing for me when making a product is how it functions. Looks, although important are secondary. If it doesn’t work well and feel good when you’re using it then it’s not a good product in my book . In a world of cheap mass produced goods a well functioning product is rarity, especially as it’s looks that sell.
Wood turning is a wonderful craft. I’m following in the footsteps of the wood turners before me who took pride in their skills and the quality of their work. So it’s important to me to create products with character. They don’t come off a production line with a built in life span. Each one is created from quality natural materials, designed to last and contains a unique story.
I’m on a mission to improve my skills and understanding of my materials. I love experimenting and trying new techniques. My motivation for this, apart from my fascination with my craft, is my love of problem solving. It’s wonderful to listen to a customer’s needs and apply my skills to create the solution.
As well as learning for myself, I want to share my knowledge with others to increase respect for Nature and raise awareness of the benefits of natural, handmade products.
I choose suppliers that have a positive impact and behave responsibly. We’re lucky in the developed world that we have a choice. We can avoid cheap, disposable products made in factories without the minimum wage. Products with no history or identity. Instead, we can choose ethical products. Products that benefit the lives of the people who make them. As consumers we can do good and feel good about it. We can know about where our ‘stuff’ comes from and learn it’s fascinating story, thereby enriching our lives.
All of the materials I use are cruelty free and vegan friendly.
It’s in the name isn’t it ? Love HeartWood. My business means so much more to me than a means of generating an income. It’s a way to work from home and be there for my kids at the end of the school day. I also believe that by following my dream I’m being a good role model for them.
Through my quiet passion and sharing my values I hope to inspire people with a love and respect for animals, Nature and other people. Not at all what I was thinking when I had an open house to show off my wooden pieces for my friends back in 2017 but if you listen to your heart it’s amazing where it can take you.