Norfolk-born in 1964, I spent my working life building both traditional timber and modern GRP cruisers - but while this paid the bills, woodturning became my private passion. Now, this one time hobby has quickly grown into a successful business.

After working in the boat building industry for 20 years I decided I was ready for a change, went self employed trading as Pats Wooden Crafts, creating anything from solitaire boards and lamp bases to ornamental bowls and wooden based fine art.

In 2003 I opened my first studio and workshop at Ludham Bridge following a period producing crafts for family and friends. My first commercial project was producing boxes to contain the ashes of much-loved pets! Tucked behind the chandlery just a few yards from the River Ant, this popular pit stop proved an ideal springboard for the business and the summer trade exceeded any expectations. My work was noticed by a London businessman, who took some pieces for an art and design outlet in the capital.

In 2004 I moved on to a new workshop and studio the art and craft centre Wroxham Barns where I have joined a group of talented craftsmen who produce both traditional and contemporary crafts at this high-profile location.

Since then the business has moved on even further by recently enlarging the shop, moving the workshop to another location, this allowing me to display more of my quality hand turned items. These alterations have also given me the opportunity to intoduce "The Wood Shop" a retail side to the business which consist of unique hand made wooden furniture and gifts from around the world. 

Other items in my range include teapot stands with ceramic in lays, calendars, clocks, barometers and loads more. I will tell my customers "whether you want a small memento of a Norfolk holiday or a major commission I will be able to provide it." I use both native and exotic woods to achieve different effects and textures and prices range from just a few pounds upwards.