With Mother’s Day approaching in many parts of the world and Father’s Day just around the corner in North America, it is that time of year again. If you are anything like us, the last thing you want to do is wander the gift aisle hoping inspiration strikes. Let’s be honest, Mum and Dad do not need another generic mug or plastic gadget.
Handmade just hits different. There's no shortcut for something that took time, thought, and a bit of elbow grease—and they know it.
You don't have to be experienced to make something worth giving, either. Grab a Ball Gouge or MG1000 and knock out a set of spoons or a small bowl. Put the TURBOPlane to work on a stool or some wall art. Start with what sounds fun and see where it goes.
If you’ve ever spoken to co-founder Kevin Inkster, handmade is all he harps on about; that’s part of the reason why the business started. Just recently he made a sausage dog tray for a canine-loving mate's milestone birthday. Not because it was easy or quick (or even cost-effective), but because nothing you can buy would've meant the same thing. That's the whole point.
So if you're on the fence, just have a crack at it. Grab a scrap bit of timber, don't stress about it being perfect, and make something. The tools do more of the work than you'd think—and what comes out the other end is genuinely yours.
That's worth more than anything wrapped in cellophane.