Movement that needs to be reborn

Sloyd, or slöjd, originated in Scandinavia as an educational system and handcraft movement that promotes self-sufficiency and a deep understanding of local natural resources. It emphasizes practical woodworking skills, particularly with knives and axes, and falls under the category of "green woodworking," which involves using freshly cut (green) wood instead of kiln-dried wood. Sloyd is not limited to woodworking; it also includes crafts involving paper, textiles, and metal. The items produced, such as spoons, bowls, cups, buttons, coat hooks, and furniture, are intended for everyday use around the home.

Follow @algomasloyd on Instagram to learn more about Sloyd and my work

What we do

Make your kitchen unique

We create and sell unique wooden tools that are beautiful, made from organic materials, and locally sourced

Give your loved one the attention they deserve

Our products are all unique and can be made at your request. There is no better present

Help you live a more sustainable and healthy life

Our products are made with organic materials only, using local wood

Teach you new and fun skills

Paul loves giving workshops

Add atmosphere to your corporate workshop

Getting out of the office and enjoying nature and using your hands to create something

About Paul

Hello, and thank you for visiting my website!

My name is Paul Oak, and I am the proud owner and creator behind the hand-carved spoons, treen and handmade brooms you'll find here. I currently reside in the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Ontario, nestled in the beauty of the boreal forest on magnificent Lake Superior.

For the past seven years, I have been passionately honing my skills as a woodcarver. What began as a search for a hobby that would reconnect me with nature has blossomed into a deep-rooted passion and a meaningful part of my life. Carving has not only provided me with a creative outlet but has also become a crucial tool in promoting mindfulness, relaxation, and improved mental health.

As a single father, finding moments of tranquility and self-care has always been essential to me. Woodcarving has been a wonderful avenue for personal growth and self-expression. It has allowed me to find solace and peace amidst the chaos of daily life, while also nurturing my creativity and sparking joy in my heart.

If you have any questions or would like to get in touch, please don't hesitate to reach out. I'm always here to connect, share stories, and inspire each other.

Wishing you tranquility and happiness,

Paul

contact Paul

Resources

Green Woodworking & Sloyd

If you are new to spoon carving I recommend the following tools to get started.

  • Mora 106 Sloyd Knife
  • Wood Tools open sweep spoon knife or a Mora 164 hook knife
  • Wood tools Robin Wood Carving Axe
  • Silky Gomboy 270 (medium) saw.

Tool suppliers

Tool Suppliers

Mora - Easily obtainable carving knives for beginners and experts. I use a Mora 106 daily. Located in Sweden but available almost anywhere. 

Wood Tools - Affordable carving tools from the UK. 

Pinewood Forge - Sloyd knives, sharpening supplies, and books. Located  in Minnesota

Jason Lonon - Wide variety of premium hand-forged carving tools. Located in  North Carolina. 

Reid Schwartz - Reid makes some of the best premium hand-forged carving knives. 

Kalthoff Axes - Julia makes one of the best, balanced, and easy to use carving axes on the market. Located in Sweden. 

Silky Saw - Excellent affordable saws for green wood working. 

Strongwaytool - High quality affordable carving tools made in the Ukraine.

Books and Resources

Swedish Carving Techniques - Wille Sundqvist

Slojd in Wood - Jogge Sundqvist

Spon - Barn The Spoon

Spoon Templates - Spoon Club UK

Spoon Carving Projects - Emmet Van Driesche