I am an Australian wood designer who creates unique, handmade pieces. My work specialises in woodturning, which uses a lathe to spin the wood at high speed while I carve the shape using specialty hand tools. Each design is a response to the unique characteristics of that piece of wood, meaning every piece is a one of a kind.
I work out of a studio in my birthplace, the central Australian town of Alice Springs. While this harsh desert climate poses some interesting challenges when working with timber, it is inspiring to work amongst this stunning landscape. Many of the timbers I use are local native species, often grown within a few kilometres of the workshop.
All natural, all plant based.
Timber is such an organic and lively material to work with. In my studio I strive to use only natural and plant-based products that have a minimal environmental impact.
For this reason, all of my products are finished using a plant-derived oil blend (comprised of linseed, tung and citrus oils). It's all natural make-up also means that it is a food safe and children friendly finish.
Many people are unaware that animal or synthetic products are used in the timber industries. Some common ingredients used in woodworking that are not plant based are:
- Beeswax
- Shellac
- Animal hide glue
- Leather
- Animal hair brushes
- Lambswool
- Ivory