About

From an early age I was always interested in wood. Just the smell of freshly cut or planed pine inspired me to play with wooden off cuts. As a youngster I would be always making things in wood and at the age of 15/16 I designed, made and erected a greenhouse from scratch for my parents.

At school I studied craft, design and technology, taking woodwork to 'A' level standard, and was always interested in the lathe.

Then after going to college, again following the craft theme, I eventually began my working life in the retail furniture trade, specialising in fitted furniture design and installation. This eventually resulted in setting up my own specialist fitted furniture business in Chesterfield.

Unfortunately due to increased health issues with my spine, I recently had to take early retirement, so had to cease trading, after 26 years of successful trading in fitted furniture. Because I'm not one for sitting around I needed to have something to occupy my mind and hands. I gradually began to set up a small workshop at home, purchased a lathe, and other associated tools and began to turn individual items in wood.

After noticing on YouTube a lot of craftsmen had started using resin as another material, I began taking an interest in this relatively new medium. I purchased some resin and started with some simple casting, which has now developed into larger projects. Some of this has been experimental and now I'm gradually starting to combine resin and wood together on some projects. My aim is to try and create items that are just that little bit more unique and interesting in a different way, and not just a standard bowl or rolling pin.

My family and friends saw some of the items that I'd created and wanted to buy them, and this has started to escalate to the point where I needed somewhere to display my creations to more than just my family and friends. So here I am with my own website, that will show information about me, my creations, my experimental work and items that I'm selling. I sometimes show my creations at local craft fair/market events. Keep a look out if you're interested in seeing some of my work. Please follow me on Facebook, where new items and events will be first shown.

Occasionally I'm asked if I can make something specific and I will always look into the possibilities and consider it if it's a possible, practical project. I've just purchased a small/portable laser engraving machine, which enables us to offer some personalised items (made to order).

Even though I am classed as a self funding hobbyist craftsman, I regularly get asked if I could offer 'taster sessions' in my workshop. This year (2025), I am begining to offer some occasional 'taster sessions', on a one to one basis.

If your're interested please ask and I'll check what dates I have available.

Richard Peat (R-T Craftwork)