Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Here’s a brief workshop update accompanied by pictures showcasing some furniture highlights from 2023.
In my humble workshop, 2023 has proven to be a fantastic year. Collaborating with delightful clients who share a deep appreciation for craftsmanship and possess an open-minded approach to the possibilities of furniture design has been truly rewarding. I hope I’ve had the opportunity to create welcoming and warm spaces within their homes.
I’ve been lucky to avoid some of the hardships that have faced other workshops and industries relating to material supply and price increases by purchasing the majority of my timber stock from local farms. Establishing trusted relationships with timber growers has been an enriching aspect of my work.
Probably the main challenge I’ve faced this year has been the weather! Achieving a flawless finish on furniture is crucial, and prolonged wet spells posed challenges to the drying process. I’ve mitigated most of the problem by focusing on insulation and investing in a few dehumidifiers. The furniture is better for it, even during spells.
A real highlight this year was visiting the New Zealand Centre for Fine Woodworking. I was lucky enough to be invited down to meet the team, help out with their beginners course and begin developing my own courses for next year. I anticipate heading down again in 2024 to conduct a couple one week courses, providing a refreshing break from my routine and connecting with the woodworking community—a welcome change from the solitude of the workshop.
I lie, I’m not alone. I have my family, dog, rabbits and chickens all sharing the property, keeping me busy in other ways!
Another highlight and honour was being selected as a finalist in the world category of Wood Review’s, Maker of the Year Competition. The piece selected was the Roessler drawers (see below). Quite the journey to get this one together but very pleased with the result. Working with this client was an absolute pleasure. The brief was wide open and we really went for it.
Anyways, I hope you all have a wonderful year, look forward to a peaceful and happy 2024.