Liam Culbertson
Green wood carver & blacksmith
Green wood carving & blacksmithing courses in Melbourne
Delve into the rare arts of green wood carving and blacksmithing, where you’ll be guided through every stage of making tools from raw materials.
In my blacksmithing classes, you’ll learn to forge and heat treat using recycled steel, before moving into handle assembly and sharpening.
Carving courses focus on the milling process of storm-fallen trees, rough shaping with a carving hatchet, followed by refinement and finishing techniques.
Ethics & sustainability
Throughout my craftwork, I consider the environmental impact of every process. I collect all of my timber locally, processing it down from large logs myself to reduce the carbon footprint of transport and milling. To further reduce my footprint, I only use hand tools as much as possible.
Craftsmanship
My goal is to always produce heirloom-grade, forever pieces that can be enjoyed and relied upon decade after decade. These items are crafted almost entirely from tools I’ve either made myself, or sourced from other local artisan makers – so when you purchase a finished piece, you’re also supporting a wider community of makers and artists.
Historicity
In a world that increasingly prioritises quick profit over lasting quality, I believe it’s critical that we keep old trades alive and try to preserve historical methods. Authentic traditional processes take longer and are harder on the body, but it’s important to me to act in line with the original values of these ancient crafts.
Finished items for sale
Browse hand-turned tableware, traditionally-made tools designed to last a lifetime, and hand-crafted utensils, each with truly one-of-a-kind character.
About me
My name is Liam and I’m a green wood worker, pole-lathe bowl turner and blacksmith/toolmaker based in Naarm (Melbourne).
I use stormfallen trees and recycled steel to craft beautiful bowls, spoons and tools that will bring their users joy for decades.
My focus has always been on treading lightly, reducing my ecological footprint, encouraging diversity in the craft, and using quality materials that will endure over time.
