Handmade Wood Pieces
There's something special about an object made from wood. This natural material brings character to a beautifully turned bowl or a decorative carving. The grain, colour and natural markings ensure each piece is different, even if the same design is used.
I'm a self-taught artisan based in South Dorset, close to Hardy's Monument. Alongside my watercolour paintings, I'm passionate about woodturning and wood carving, creating unique pieces that celebrate the natural beauty of wood.
Bringing out the beauty of the grain
Woodturning is a unique craft that transforms a piece of timber into something that's both beautiful and useful. I use a lathe to gradually shape the rotating wood with cutting tools, creating ornate bowls, and other items.
It's a process that needs patience, precision and an understanding of how different types of wood behave. Each cut reveals different elements of the grain as the shape comes to life.
Turned wood bowls are among some of my most popular pieces, combining practical use with natural beauty. Some are ideal as decorative centrepieces, while others can be used to hold everyday objects or displayed on a shelf or sideboard.
One of the things I enjoy the most about woodturning is that no two pieces are ever quite the same. They vary in grain, colour and texture, making each item truly special. It makes working with wood incredibly rewarding.
The craft of wood carving
While woodturning uses a rotating lathe to create rounded shapes, wood carving involves shaping timber directly with cutting tools. It's a different skill that allows me to create a range of details and textures that can't be achieved through turning alone.
Carving can be a slow but thoughtful process. The shape develops gradually as wood is cut away, with each cut contributing to the finished piece.
From decorative objects to more intricate designs, I enjoy exploring the things that can be made from a simple piece of wood.
Both techniques need a good eye, steady hands and of course, plenty of patience. Both methods are different, but my aim is always the same: to make the most out of the wood's natural qualities and create pieces worth keeping.
Working with natural wood
One of the greatest pleasures of woodcraft is that no two pieces of timber are exactly alike. I work with a variety of woods, including yew, oak, beech and sycamore, each with its own distinctive appearance and characteristics.
Yew
Particularly striking thanks to its rich colours and contrasting grain patterns.
The choice of wood can influence everything from the shape of a turned bowl to the finer carved details of a lamp or sculpture. Each of these details adds to the finished piece, giving it a character that can't be replicated somewhere else.
Oak
A popular wood, known for its strength and colourful grain.
Beech
A smoother, more subtle appearance.
I use careful sanding and finishing techniques to bring out the beauty of the grain, creating a smooth surface. It's also possible to treat finished pieces depending on what they'll be used for.
Sycamore
Typically pale and creamy in colour, making it a lovely choice for pieces with a lighter, modern look.
All of this work goes into creating something that feels as good as it looks, celebrating the warmth and texture of natural wood.
The current collection
Turned table lamps, bowls and candlesticks. Prices are indicative and negotiable.
Lamp Yew approx 20cms £30
Lamp Yew approx 30cms £80
Oak Lamp Approx 36cms £60 Lampshade Approx 20*30 cms £40 SOLD
Lamp distressed oak approx 30cms £50
Lamp Oak approx 25cms £60
Lamp distressed oak approx 25cms £50
Lamp coloured elm approx 40cms £50
Lamp Yew approx 30cms £60
Stone lamp £50 SOLD
Stone Lamp approx 35cms £50
Lamp Yew Approx 30cms £80
Bowl Approx 20 cms £30
Bowl Approx 28 cms £50
Bowl Approx 31 cms £80
Bowl Spalted Beech Approx 35 cms £60
Bowl Approx 32 cms £80
Bowl Approx 40 cms £70
A wooden bowl with a shallow, circular shape and a smooth, polished surface, placed against a black background.
A round wooden bowl with a shallow, carved interior surface placed against a black background.
A round wooden bowl with a natural wood grain pattern, placed against a black background.
A wooden bowl with a natural wood grain pattern, set against a black background.
A wooden bowl with a smooth, polished surface, showing visible wood grain patterns, against a black background.
Close-up of a wooden bowl with a smooth, rounded interior and visible wood grain, set against a black background.
A round wooden bowl with natural wood grain and knots, placed against a black background.
A marble bowl with a beige and brown swirling pattern against a black background.
Bowl Spalted Sycamore Approx 20 cms £30
Bowl Yew Approx 15 cms £40
Yew Mushrooms approx 8cms £10
Clocks approx 10cms £25 each
Clock Appox 30cms £50
Clock Appox 22cms £40
Clock Appox 30cms £50
Otters Approx 30 £40 each
Rays Yew Approx 40 and 27 cms £60 and £30
Birds Approx 30cms £30 each
Candle sticks approx 20cms £15 each Many more
Jewelry Box 8.5 cms £50
Monkey Puzzle Bowl 11cms £50
Light Pulls £5
Yew 15cms £25
Yew 15cms £30
Yew 15cms £30
Yew 19cms £40
Yew 13cms £40
Oak 11cms £25
Yew 12cms £30
Vase 19cms £20
A wooden vase with a narrow base that widens into a rounded middle and tapers slightly at the top, placed against a black background.
A tall, narrow wooden vase with a smooth finish and a natural wood grain pattern, placed on a black background.
Handmade wooden gifts for every occasion
If you're looking for a gift that's a little more personal, handmade wooden gifts are a lovely alternative to something bought off the shelf.
A turned wooden bowl could make a thoughtful wedding, anniversary or housewarming present. A decorative carving might be just right for a birthday, retirement or special occasion, especially for someone who enjoys natural materials and handmade craftsmanship.
Wooden pieces make an excellent addition to a home. They add a light decorative touch that can work in most rooms, adding a little natural warmth.
And because every piece I make is unique, you're choosing something with its own individual appearance.
Visit my Dorset studio
I believe handmade pieces are best experienced in person. A photo can only really show the shape and appearance of a wooden object, but it can't quite capture the texture, feel and little details that make a piece special.
And it's for these reasons you won't find my work for sale online. Instead, you're welcome to get in touch to discuss a particular item or arrange a visit to my studio in South Dorset, which is close to Hardy's monument.
I'll be happy to discuss pricing and have a chat about anything that catches your eye. Whether you're looking for turned wood bowls, decorative lamps or other wooden gifts, a visit to Coryates studio will help you see everything for yourself.
Contact me to discuss a piece or arrange a visit. You can always knock on the door if you happen to be in the area; there's a cuppa in it for you if you do!