I’m very much a materials focused designer. I enjoy choosing wood that complements my designs and aim to use it in a sympathetic way. My style constantly evolves as there are always new techniques and methods to explore and experiment with. However, I’d definitely say that the work and philosophy of George Nakashima, Mid Century Modern design and the use of refined natural edge wood are constants in my approach.
Why did you decide to become a furniture maker and what have you learned along the way?
I grew up learning carpentry and basic wood working from a very patient neighbour and it has always been something I’d wanted to pursue. However, I was encouraged to follow a more academic career path and woodwork became sidelined. Years later I ended up working as a graphic designer and found myself designing a Princes Youth Truth Annual Report which featured a cabinet maker as a case study. Within six months I’d quit my job, enrolled on a furniture making course and the rest is history. That was nearly 20 years ago… Furniture making is a tough career - the hours are long and the pay is often poor but the rewards of working with beautiful material everyday is a bonus.
How would you describe the style of your work?
I’m very much a materials focused designer. I enjoy choosing wood that complements my designs and aim to use it in a sympathetic way. My style constantly evolves as there are always new techniques and methods to explore and experiment with. However, I’d definitely say that the work and philosophy of George Nakashima, Mid Century Modern design and the use of refined natural edge wood are constants in my approach.
Is there a piece you’ve always wanted to make but haven’t got around to yet?
Loads, mainly things for the home which never get done… As a wood hoarder I have a stash of boards set aside for special projects - I just can’t remember what they all are!
What are the benefits for you of being a member of the SFMA?
Being part of a group of like minded creative people is very helpful - from asking for advice to sharing exhibition costs, group marketing and promotion. Most makers have skills and experience from previous careers that give a huge depth of knowledge to the association. I served on the SFMA committee for 8 years and helped organise many events and activities which we all benefitted from.
What would you say are the challenges facing craftspeople today?
Covid aside. Getting your work noticed and making a living. There are so many ways to promote yourself online and they all have their merits. But nothing beats displaying your work in person so that people can talk to you about your work and also see, touch and appreciate your efforts.
What’s your starting point in the design process?
It depends on whether the project is a client’s commission or an exhibition piece. With a commission the starting point is the client’s brief - what is the function of the piece, how will it be used, what are the preferred materials, budget and so on. I like to work in a collaborative way with my clients - often incorporating or developing their own designs into a finished piece.
With an exhibition piece the process is completely different. As a materials focused maker I often look for a ‘special’ board to spark an idea and it flows from there. Some of my favourite pieces have been designed as I go working from rough sketches and trial and error.
What are your favourite materials to work with and why?
I’m first and foremost a woodworker so wood is the obvious choice. I can find interest in a scrappy piece of construction timber or a beautiful piece of burr elm. No two pieces of wood are the same, each species has different characteristics, colour, grain and smell.
What piece of work are you most proud of?
The desk I made for the After the Storm project is a piece that means a lot to me for personal reasons. I’d recently lost my parents and the project helped give me something positive to focus on and became woodwork therapy.
What is the one item in your workshop that you couldn’t live without?
Pencils - judging by how often I lose them…
Is there a particular technique you enjoy using in your work?
I like to use traditional woodworking joints - dovetails in particular - as they add a decorative element to a piece as well as being strong and able to withstand a lifetime of use. I’m open to using modern and traditional techniques to cut joinery - hand-tools, power-tools, machinery - whatever fits my requirements and produces the quality of work I need. That said, there is nothing better than hand planing gossamer thin shavings from a piece of wood to create a glass like surface. Very therapeutic and strangely addictive…
When you’re not making furniture, how do you like to spend your time?
I’ve been a drummer since I was teenager and enjoy playing and gigging in bands. However, in Covid times I’ve spent a lot more time doing simpler and less noisy activities - walking and being out in nature, good food and a good book.
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