About
Pete's Woodcraft Art
Welcome to Pete's Woodcraft Art, nestled on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Here, local woods like magnolia, walnut, cypress, pear, cherry, Osage orange, oak, and sweet gum reveal their unique grain, color, and character. Every species turns differently, guiding me toward the form that best showcases its natural beauty. I also work with wood and epoxy castings, decorative inlays, and other materials to expand the creative possibilities with vibrant colors and striking patterns.
Fallen trees are given a second life through craftsmanship, imagination, and a deep respect for nature's work. What others see as storm-felled timber or forgotten limbs, I see as potential — a graceful bowl, an elegant vase, or a one-of-a-kind free-form turning waiting to emerge.
With over 50 years of woodworking experience, I remain in awe of wood's magnificence. My body of work is intentionally small, shaped by the care and attention given to every individual piece.
The Process
From fallen tree to finished bowl
The journey from raw wood to finished piece often spans a year or more. Each creation begins with a carefully selected blank — and the angle of that very first cut starts to determine what the piece will become.
After careful drying to prevent splits and cracks, the wood goes on the lathe, where its hidden grain and character gradually come to life. I often begin turning without knowing what the final form will be; each piece has an innate character that must be discovered and revealed.
Following stabilization, the bowl is sanded through up to eight grades of paper, from coarse to super-fine, then polished with an abrasive paste and given several coats of premium, food-safe finish. A final coat of carnauba wax adds protection and luster. With a little care, each piece is made to last a lifetime.