My story
Ever since I discovered the craft of woodturning after having whittled a few spoons and wanting to learn how to make bowls, I've been passionate about the creative freedom it provides.
My work is inspired by a variety of techniques that allow me to let the wood speak for itself, while still maintaining precision and creativity.
I owe a lot to my mentors, Rick Taylor in Dargaville who I took my first lesson with, Denis Newton who met me on Friday mornings at the Menz Shed in Naenae, and Hugh Mill who gently encouraged me along at his evening classes, and taught me the foundations that let me build my craft. Through Hugh's connection I was gifted my first lathe, and all the tools I needed to do turning at home in my garage.
Thank you to my friends, family, and everyone who has taken an interest. The biggest thanks goes to my wife Alex who has been supportive from day 1, and put her own creativity and effort into making this website, making me business cards, a sign, a cool stamp, and listens to me ramble on about woodturning! She also has an eye for quality and is my quality control specialist.
I'm excited to share my work with others and see the different ways that wood can speak to us and invite us to simply pause.
Each piece has a story of it's own
Chris produces a variety of forms from elegant designs with simple sweeping curves and lift, to characterful pieces incorporating gnarly knots and natural features. Each piece is made with the character of the wood in mind. The story and natural beauty of the wood inspires what is made.
He uses a variety of techniques to enhance the pieces including burning, brushing and natural stains. Every piece is finished with multiple coats of Supreme tung oil blend, allowing the quality of the craftsmanship to last for many years.
Wooden ware can be used daily, and most of his work is made with this functionality in mind, thinking about the pleasure and ease with which they can lift off the table and how it feels to hold. Chris uses much of his own wooden ware daily.
Chris has a lot of fun wood turning - from the relationships made in collecting wood, to the unveiling of surprises and beauty during the process, to the critical thinking required and reliance on his own gut instinct, to sharing the joy of wood with others when each piece finds a new home.
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Locally sourced materials
Much of Chris' timber comes from the Wellington region and will have a story of where it came from and how it found its way to the workshop. In a time where quick and easy wins over quality and care, the craft of woodturning is a testament to detail and intention.