Self taught Green Woodsmith jack.in.the.woods is based in the town of Pudsey, West Yorkshire.
All his pieces are created from storm fallen trees that are foraged from local woods and parklands. Using British species such as Beech, Cherry, Sycamore and Oak, each item is handcrafted whilst still green so that as it dries the wood is allowed to warp with a delightful and organic wave. For this reason each creation is unique, and no one piece is the same.
Milk Paints, Fire, Ebonising and carving using a range of hand tools such as knifes, gouges and axes, are just some of the methods used to create tactile textures. Not only functional and pleasing to the eye, but also a joy to hold and use!
Caring for your woodenware
All items are made to be used, and if looked after, will give many years of service gaining a lovely patina as they age. Ebonised pieces will mellow as they are used, and a warm grain will be revealed over time.
Bowls have been giving multiple coats of Treatex, a food safe Hard Wax oil, which is cured to give a robust finish to the wood. Occasionally you may like to refresh your items with a light coating of oil. Shop bought Walnut oil is great for this and can be cured with natural sunlight over a few sunny days, polymerising into a hard coating.
Bowls should be hand washed in warm soapy water and dried immediately. Try not to scrub them unless really needed, and be wary of staining foods like curry and berries. It goes without saying that they are not to be washed in a Dishwasher!
Shrink Pots have a light coating of Hard Wax oil too, and will only need a wipe down occasionally. The lids have a cork insert to allow flexibility as the pots change with the seasons. Try not to overtighten them, and if not in daily use, make sure to open them every now and again.
Wooden cups are fragile, just like ceramics, and can crack if dropped on a hard surface. Finished with Hassui Ceramic, a Japanese liquid glass that penetrates deep into the wood and is fully waterproof. Although tested with both hot and cold liquids, boiling water should sit briefly before adding to the cup. Hand wash only!