Johnny - The Craftsman

I became interested in woodcraft when I discovered a traditional Swedish craft movement called sloyd a number of years ago. I started to carve my own bowls and other items from green wood (wood that is freshly harvested and still wet) and that initial interest very quickly became a passion.

I was fascinated by the development of woodworking methods and the creation of specialised tools over the centuries and began to study this in depth.

As well as being mentored in 2015 by a well respected traditional bowl carver, I completed formal training in woodcraft and became a member of the Heritage Crafts Association (HCA). I’ve also been involved in the reproduction of medieval oak furniture at one of Glasgow’s many museums and continue to develop my knowledge and skills through commission work and other exciting opportunities.

I design and create by hand every item and my style of work is very much influenced by the wood that I use. For the majority of my projects I use urban salvaged wood that I harvest myself. This is wood that comes from storm damaged, windblown or diseased trees within parks, woodland areas and gardens in my City. Often it will have stunning natural characteristics but is considered useless and will normally be chipped or sent to landfill.

I always have a selection of wood that is still green and a selection that has been air dried (seasoning) for at least three years. For projects that require a seasoned wood that I don’t have in stock, I use a local FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) approved supplier. 

Every piece of wood has a story to tell and I attempt to draw that out and highlight it in all of the pieces that I make. Being able to reveal that to others is what makes it so enjoyable for me.