Nicholas’s journey into woodturning began during his time studying 3D Design and Craft BA (Hons) at the Colchester School of Art. With access to a wide range of materials, he enjoyed exploring different processes but something always felt a little off. The constant trial and error left him uneasy about the waste he was creating. He wanted to work with a material that felt more sustainable and grounded. That’s when he discovered the Graduate Union’s little-used lathe and tools and everything changed. Like many before him, he was immediately hooked by the hypnotic pull of woodturning. Over a decade later, the excitement and mystery of the process still captivate him.
“There’s something magical about peeling back the layers of wood to reveal hidden grain patterns, imperfections, and features. Each piece has a character of its own, and I’ve learned to adapt and respond to that.”
While Nicholas often starts with a plan, the wood itself ultimately guides the final form. That intuitive approach is part of what makes his pieces so engaging. Viewers are drawn in by the natural patterns, flowing forms, and tactile finishes and Nicholas finds great satisfaction in their responses.
Life in the Studio
There’s no such thing as a typical day in Nicholas’s world. Like many creatives, his work follows the rhythm of sales, commissions, exhibitions, and opportunities. He splits his time between making, managing his business, and contributing to the vibrant community at Cuckoo Farm Studios, where he is both a Studio Holder and Committee member.
Challenges and Craftsmanship
As Nicholas moves toward creating larger, more technically complex pieces, space and time are his biggest constraints. His 4x3m studio, while generous, is slowly filling up with upgraded equipment and stacks of wood waiting to dry. Winter and early spring bring a welcome lull in outside demands—perfect for harvesting and rough turning wet wood, when the sap is down and drying is quicker (and considerably less messy at the lathe!).
Inspiration in Form and Nature
Nicholas draws inspiration from the 3D world around him. With time and practice, forms now come to him organically shapes that honour the natural features in the wood, from cracks and voids to ripples in the grain.
Learning and Evolving
Woodturning is a demanding craft. It calls for a mix of technical skill, artistic vision, and patience. No two pieces of wood are ever the same—each demands its own approach. But for Nicholas, that challenge is exactly what keeps the craft alive and rewarding.
Advice for Beginners
For those curious about woodturning, Nicholas recommends starting with a local club or society. Many are welcoming communities where experienced turners are happy to share their knowledge and even their workshops.
What’s Next?
After a decade of perfecting sets of nested bowls, Nicholas has recently turned his focus to hollowed forms—a technically demanding but deeply satisfying challenge. With the tools and basic skills now in hand, he’s ready to push this area of his work further. He’s also passionate about sharing what he’s learned. Over the past four years, he’s been demonstrating for local woodturning clubs, and hopes to begin offering individual lessons from his studio soon.
Finally, Nicholas knows it’s time to promote his work more actively. While being featured on other platforms has helped, building his own website is now firmly on the to-do list. Read more about Nicholas here and see his work at our latest exhibiton at Ickworth Estate.
You can read this interview, along with details of upcoming Society and Makers exhibitions, in our newsletter. Sign up here to stay connected!
Share this post: