My Journey in Woodturning
From Childhood Beginnings to Professional Endeavours

I began my woodturning journey as a child, learning the craft with my grandfather in his shed. My academic performance at school was not remarkable—I was diagnosed with dyslexia as an adult—but my aptitude for woodwork was recognised by teachers. I frequently assisted at school, building shelves and repairing furniture. My passion for woodwork continued at college, where I was introduced to antique restoration. At the age of 17, I became a self-employed professional woodturner, taking on commissions from antique dealers in Buckinghamshire and London, including prominent subcontracting work for R Cattles, who secured numerous prestigious projects in the field. 

Fortunately, at the start of my career, I received mentorship from Master Craftsman Dennis White, which greatly influenced my development. Over the years, my work has appeared in numerous historical and government buildings, including Portcullis House. Additionally, I have completed commissions for a variety of sectors, including the Ministry of Defence, automotive, aerospace,  yachting, as well as many private clients.

To expand my business, I began creating bespoke furniture and kitchens for architects, designers, and leading retailers, while also catering to individual clients. I established an apprenticeship programme aimed at helping young people with talent in woodwork or those grappling with life challenges, providing them with valuable opportunities.

In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, I reflected on my work-life balance with my family. This led me to reassess my goals and, during lockdown, I returned to the lathe, using my workshop as a therapeutic space. 

With a long-standing passion for sharing my knowledge, I began voluntary work promoting woodturning. I joined the Association of Woodturners for Great Britain (AWGB) as Training & Development Officer, where I currently help deliver the Youth Programme alongside the Youth Training Officer. Recently, I took on the role of Vice-Chair of the AWGB and serve as an approved Tutor and Assessor. I am also listed on the Register of Professional Turners and hold positions as a Freeman, Assessor, and Tutor for The Worshipful Company of Turners.

My work promotes therapeutic woodturning, collaborating with vocational education settings, mental health services, and various charities, including organisations that support youth offenders and veterans. Primarily, my focus lies in private commissions, teaching, demonstrating, assessing, and volunteering. I take pleasure in being an active member of local woodturning clubs, where I also serve on the committee for the Heart of England Woodturners club.

Best Wishes, Steve