Welcome to my workshop

I’m a woodturner with a passion for transforming natural timber into unique, handcrafted pieces.

Every piece I make starts with the wood itself — its shape, grain, colour and character. Rather than forcing the timber into a predetermined design, I enjoy allowing those natural features to influence what the finished piece becomes.

Woodturning is as much about working with the timber as it is about working on it. No two pieces of wood are ever exactly the same, which means every bowl, vessel, platter or decorative piece has its own character and story.

Made, not mass produced

Everything I make is individually turned and finished by hand in my workshop. I take pride in the time and attention that goes into every piece, from selecting suitable timber and preparing the blank, through to turning, sanding and applying the final finish.

Where possible, I enjoy working with locally sourced and reclaimed timber, giving wood that might otherwise be discarded a new purpose. There is something particularly satisfying about taking a piece of timber that has already had a life and creating something new from it.

And because I work with natural wood, I don't expect every piece to be perfectly uniform.

Nothing is a flaw — just a potential beauty spot

Natural timber comes with its own personality. Knots, bark inclusions, unusual grain patterns, colour variations and changes in texture can all add something special to a finished piece.

A knot can become a natural focal point. A dramatic change in grain can transform a simple shape into something striking. Subtle variations in colour and texture can create depth and individuality that simply cannot be replicated in manufactured materials.

Of course, not every piece of timber is suitable for turning. Safety always comes first, and every piece is carefully assessed and prepared before it goes anywhere near the lathe. But when the timber is sound and suitable to work with, I enjoy discovering what makes that particular piece different.

That's one of the things I love most about woodturning. You can start with a rough piece of timber with little idea of what lies beneath the surface. As the wood is carefully turned, its character gradually begins to reveal itself.

I don't aim to make every piece look identical or perfectly uniform. The individuality of natural timber is part of what makes something handcrafted so special.

I have my own character and so does the timber, my job is to reveal it.

A passion for the craft

What started as an interest in wood and making things has developed into a genuine passion for the craft of woodturning.

I'm constantly experimenting with different timbers, shapes, finishes and techniques, while still respecting the traditional skills and patience that sit at the heart of the craft. There is something incredibly satisfying about taking a rough piece of timber, putting it on the lathe and gradually revealing what nature has created.

Whether it's a simple bowl designed to become part of everyday life, a functional piece made to be used and enjoyed, or a more sculptural piece intended to be displayed, my aim remains the same:

To create something individual, made by hand and built around the natural beauty of the timber.

Thank you for taking the time to visit my website and for supporting handmade craftsmanship.

Dom
The Woodside Turner