Today we welcome back Kirk’s Carvings, who were very popular at our Christmas fairs. They will be selling at our Brighton Open Market fair on March 29th. Find out more about them…
Please introduce yourself and your brand….
Hi, my name is Simon and I am a wood turner. I make products that are attractive yet functional, including bowls and beakers, chopping boards and garlic presses, bottle stoppers and pepper grinders. I use mainly local woods, such as Beech, Sycamore and Oak but I do also turn a variety of exotic woods like Purple Heart, Olive wood and Zebrano.
How would you describe your style and your creations?
I have a classic style of wood turning, but with a few modern twists. For example I use a classic lathe and equipment for making your regular round bowls and vases, but also square platters and other non-circular items. The majority of my items are made from Sussex/Surrey grown wood but I also have some creations made using resin and acrylic. I do most of my work on a lathe using a variety of chisels in all shapes and sizes. I finish all products by sanding and sealing the wood using finishes such as bees wax, shellac and polyurethane – most of which are food safe for the practical items like bowls and chopping boards.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The surprise. Whether I have cut a piece of wood myself or purchased it, as soon as the lathe starts spinning I’m always surprised with the wood pattern that appears. No two items I turn are the same, as each piece of wood holds its own design and dictates how it will look. Whether it’s with a hidden knot or an image which appears made by the spalting – there was the perfect outline of an elephant in a bowl once!
What can we expect to find on your stall at The Fairy Tale Fair Brighton this Spring? And are you looking forward to taking part?
Yes, absolutely! We had a great time at the Brighton Open Market at Christmas and are looking forward to returning!
I will be selling a variety of bowls, boards (chopping/serving), platters, pepper grinders, vases, tealight candle holders, and a wide selection of kitchen wear including bottle stoppers, garlic presses, honey dippers and rolling pins.
Do you have any plans or ambitions for the future?
To continue what I am doing and grow my business. I’d like to work with some different woods and see what other surprises they hold.
Describe what Easter is to you in 10 words or less:
A long weekend with family and lots of chocolate!
Do you have a motto or inspirational quote?
Never ask why, always ask why not. (My step-grandad!)
How can we find out more about you? (web links)
Check out my website and facebook page at:
