Spice pots

The inspiration for this project came from a trip I had to the south of France on a woodturning excursion and a couple of pots I bought from French turner Thierry Martenon. Thierry is an amazing woodturner and sculptor who has developed an original and distinctive “contour map” style that permeates his work. The organic lines and fabulous textures Thierry carves into his wooden creations cast shadows that add depth and life to each piece.

and life to each piece. Years ago, I walked through Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and was blown away by the spice market. The image of huge sacks of colourful spices is etched into my memory. Thierry’s shadow lines and the image of bulk spices in leaning sacks have informed the design of these spice jars. Turning the jars, the lids and a spoon cover a range of techniques that will help you hone your woodturning skills and give you the confidence to express yourself in more creative ways.

I was unsure of the timber to use at the beginning of this two-part project and had looked at beech (Fagus spp) as a starting point, however I’m really pleased with the redwood, and think the vibrant colours of the spices really stand up against the lovely dark reds of the timber. Not only that, it’s been a real joy to use