FAQ

What materials do you use to create your products?

I prefer to use ethically sourced Australian timbers, which can include reclaimed and second hand wood, as well as responsibly sourced new timber from trusted suppliers like CERES Fair Wood, Urban Salvage & Shiver Me Timbers.

For plywood, I prefer to use hoop pine, being a locally grown product from Queensland. Baltic Birch plywood can usually be sourced from countries that are ethical, although wherever possible I prefer to use materials that have less material miles attached.

Why do you use reclaimed wood?

Using reclaimed wood wherever possible not only reduces waste by diverting perfectly good materials from landfill, but honours and uses trees that have already been felled. This practice aligns with my commitment to conservation and sustainability practices across the business, and my life. The cutting down of trees, especially old growth forests, is one of the single biggest contributors to habitat loss and fauna displacement, climate change, and other environmental emergencies facing the earth today. I love to make beautiful, functional wooden pieces without cutting down more forests.

What finishes and glues do you use? Are they non-toxic?

Yes! All my pieces are made and finished with non-toxic materials.

For food contact products I either use a blend I make myself from pure tung oil and citrus terpene, or an off-the-shelf product by a company called Tried and True. My blend uses only 100% tung oil (with no added drying or hardening chemicals) which is a traditional finish, and a simple extract from the fruit of the tung tree. Citrus terpene is extracted from lemon peel, and thins the tung oil so as to penetrate the wood more deeply. Tried and True is a blend of pure Linseed Oil and Beeswax, and nothing else.

These finishes work well on furniture as well, but for a little more durability, I often use Hard Wax Oils. These are a blend of naturally occurring materials, also free from any added dryers, thinners or anything artificial.

My preferred glue is Titebond 3, being water-based and fully non-toxic. I sometimes use epoxy and hide glue, which both cure completely inert and safe as well.

Why do your products cost more than some other wood items?

I am a small business, and my pieces are handmade in Melbourne to a very high standard. This includes many fine woodworking techniques that take a little extra time to do. Making pieces from reclaimed wood also often requires extra time to fill cracks, voids, splits etc to get to usable material.

So while I'm not the cheapest, I don't aim to be. I stand by my work, and am proud of everything that comes out of the shop.

How do I care for my wooden item?

For furniture, usually a gentle clean with a damp cloth should suffice. Use trivets and coasters for hot items. Minor scratches can often be buffed out with furniture wax and elbow grease. Deeper scratches can be gently sanded, and an oil finish reapplied.

For cutting boards, a rinse under luke-warm water is all that is needed. Stains and bacteria will be drawn to the centre of the board, which the wood will naturally dispose of. Avoid submerging or soaking, and NEVER put any wooden item in a dishwasher. Allow to fully air dry. An occasional reapplication of our natural board finish can help to maintain the lustre, but is not necessary for safe use.

Do you accept custom orders?

Definitely! I love making custom pieces for people! Please get in touch to discuss any project ideas you may have, big or small :)

Where are your products made?

All items are handmade in my workshop in Heidelberg West, in Melbourne's inner north. Workshop tours for potential clients are most welcome.

How long does it take to make a piece?

Lead times vary depending on the complexity and size of the order, as well as other projects. During initial conversations with clients, we’ll establish a clearer understanding of the project timeline. I will also stay in regular communication throughout the entire build, providing updates and addressing any questions along the way.

What are the terms for custom commissions?

After a free initial 30 minute chat, design and quotation work will be charged at $50 per hour. This process usually takes around 2-5 hours, but can vary depending on the scale of the work, design changes etc. A quote estimate will then be given, based on how long I expect the job to take. A non-refundable deposit equalling 50% of this estimate will be payable upfront, to secure the job. Hours will be tallied as the job progresses, charged at $75 per hour, and a final invoice will be provided on completion of the job. Delivery within Melbourne is generally included in the price.