The Workshop
From raw timber to a finished piece — a glimpse into how I work.
Welcome to the workshop behind WoodenRusticCraft.
This is where the timber is selected, cut, shaped, assembled and finished by hand. Based in Northampton, England, my small workshop is where every piece takes shape.
I work with natural and reclaimed timber, allowing the character of the wood to become part of each finished piece. From the first cut to the final finish, everything is done by hand, one piece at a time.
No mass production — just traditional hands-on woodworking, natural materials and plenty of sawdust.
#08 —The Jewellery Book
A small piece of oak, carefully shaped into something a little different — a jewellery box inspired by the form of an old book.
— The Timber
This project began with reclaimed oak, chosen for its distinctive grain and rustic character. Rather than hiding the timber's past, I wanted to preserve the marks and imperfections that make it unique.
— Shaping the Box
The oak was carefully shaped into a wide, shallow jewellery box inspired by the form of a book. The recessed compartment, textured fabric base and brass-coloured hinges bring together practical storage and a traditional, rustic look.
— The Finished Piece
The final touch was Danish Oil in Dark Oak, bringing warmth and depth to the natural grain. Felt pads were added to help protect the surface beneath.
Made from reclaimed oak, this piece keeps the character of the timber alive — marks, grain and all.
View the Finished Chest#07 — The Making of a Small Oak Keepsake Chest
Choosing the Oak
I start by selecting oak with an interesting grain and natural character, suited to this small mid-century inspired chest.
Building by Hand
The oak is carefully measured, cut, shaped and assembled by hand, with attention to every small detail, including the two drawers.
The Finished Chest
After sanding and finishing with natural beeswax, the oak grain comes through beautifully. A small handmade piece for keeping jewellery, letters and little treasures.
View the Finished Chest#06 — Handmade rustic wooden chest with 5 drawers
Choosing the Timber
I start by selecting timber with natural grain, knots and character — choosing pieces that suit this small rustic chest.
Building the Chest
Each part is measured, cut, sanded and assembled by hand, including the five individual drawers.
The Finished Piece
Finished with natural beeswax and fitted with felt pads, this little chest is ready to bring practical storage and rustic character to its new home.
View the Finished Chest#05 — The Making of a Handmade Keepsake Box
Selecting the Timber
Every box begins with the right piece of wood.
I look for timber with an interesting grain, natural colour and character that will suit the finished piece. Sometimes the wood itself suggests what the box should become.
Building the Box
Once the timber is selected, each piece is measured, cut, shaped and carefully assembled by hand in my workshop.
The box slowly takes shape, with attention given to the proportions, joints, lid and every small detail.
The Finished Box
After sanding and finishing, the natural character of the wood comes through. Each handmade keepsake box is unique, made to hold jewellery, letters, photographs, memories and other little treasures for years to come.
View the Finished Box#04 — The Making of a Rustic Red Oak Keepsake Chest
Selecting the Timber
Every rustic chest begins with the right piece of wood.
I carefully select timber for its character, natural grain and unique imperfections — the details that make every chest truly one of a kind.
Cutting & Crafting
Once the timber is selected, each piece is carefully measured, cut and assembled by hand.
The chest slowly takes shape, combining traditional craftsmanship with a rustic, timeless character.
The Finished Chest
Handcrafted to store your keepsakes, memories and little treasures — a unique handmade piece made to last and be enjoyed for years to come.
#03 — The Making of a Solid Oak Keepsake Chest
Selecting the Oak
The project begins with carefully selected solid oak, chosen for its natural grain, warm tones and distinctive character.
Building the Chest
The oak is carefully cut, shaped and assembled by hand in my workshop. Each detail is prepared with care, from the body to the lid and fittings.
Ready for Its New Home
Finished by hand to bring out the natural beauty of the wood, this oak keepsake chest makes a beautiful home for jewellery, letters, memories and everyday treasures.
View the Finished Piece →#02 — The Making of a Small Solid Oak Chest of Drawers
Selecting the Oak
I start by choosing solid English Oak with an interesting grain and natural character, selecting the timber that best suits the finished piece.
Building by Hand
The oak is carefully cut, shaped and assembled in my workshop. Spalted oak details add contrast while the drawers take shape.
Finished Oak Chest
After hand-sanding and an antique oil finish, the natural grain comes through. A small handmade chest for jewellery, keepsakes and everyday treasures.
View the Finished Piece →#01 — The Making of a Small English Oak Display Stool
Choosing the Timber
For this miniature stool, I selected solid English Oak for its warm colour, strength and distinctive natural grain.
Shaping the Stool
The timber is cut and shaped into a traditional four-leg design, then carefully sanded by hand to create smooth, clean edges.
A Finished Handmade Piece
Finished with linseed oil and protective pads, this miniature oak stool makes a distinctive stand for plants, pottery, candles or décor.
View the Finished Piece →Support the Workshop
Everything you see here is made by hand in my small workshop. If you enjoy my work and would like to support what I do, you can leave a small contribution. It’s completely optional and always appreciated.
