INSPIRED BY TRADITION
HANDCRAFTED IN IRELAND
About Me
My name is Peter Sloan. I am from Lisburn, Co. Antrim, in the North of Ireland.
Born and raised just south of Belfast, I embarked on my woodworking journey in 1992 as an apprentice carpenter.
Over the years, I have honed my skills, working both as a contractor and employer, consistently diversifying and exploring the many facets of woodwork.
For the past decade, I have specialised as a heritage carpenter, lending my expertise to the repair and conservation of windows and doors in some of the country's most architecturally significant state monuments and castles.
I am currently the resident Heritage Carpenter and craft demonstrator at the Ulster Folk Museum in Belfast where visitors to the museum can see me demonstrating the work of a traditional carpenter from the early 1900's.
This experience has instilled in me, a deep appreciation for traditional techniques and the enduring beauty of wood.
Now, I'd like to turn my focus to a more creative and artistic expression of my craft. I am passionate about designing and creating bespoke furniture pieces and letter carvings, using my hands and years of accumulated knowledge to bring unique visions to life.
Whenever possible, I utilise sustainably sourced native timber from old dwellings and buildings near my home.
These old timbers hold the memory and stories of the generations who lived under the thatch and in using this material to make furniture it allows me to ensure that legacy of the past gets to live on.
For truly special commissions, I work with ancient bog oak, some of which is up to 7,000 years old, adding a further dimension to my work. If you are looking for a truly unique and handcrafted piece, I invite you to get in touch with no obligation, to explore any ideas you may have.
Why Lámha ("law-va")?
Lámha means Hands in the Irish language.
Everything I design and create involves the use my hands.
Whether it be an item of furniture or a piece of letter carving, my hands allow me to bring design to life in unique pieces that are inspired by the traditions of the past with fresh contemporary ideas and forms that are intrinsically linked to the progressive Ireland of today.
I feel a deep connection to Irelands built heritage, especially the vernacular cottages and farmhouses with their rugged simplicity and the hearth, central to everything.
These buildings are a direct physical link to our past and I search far and wide, looking for abandoned and neglected buildings. I salvage the timbers within. The roof timbers that held the thatch, the beams that supported the windows and doors. I preserve the tool marks made by the men who built the homes to rear their families.
Saved from the firewood pile, these timbers live on, holding the memory of the generations past, and the stories of the people who lived beneath the thatch.
Chairs, Stools and furniture
In making chairs and stools I blend vernacular traditions with a contemporary artistic eye.
Each unique, handcrafted piece blends functionality with aesthetically striking form, celebrating the simplicity and beauty of authentic forms and time-honoured techniques.
Using sustainably sourced, salvaged native woods like Ash, Oak, and Elm, I create works designed to sit comfortably in the home.
With striking design, form, and attention to detail in the finish, I hope to convey my passion and knowledge of the nature of wood as a material and my years of practical experience.
Capture the essence of a cherished poem, song, or saying in a unique piece of handcrafted lettering.
Commission a bespoke wood carving, where the flow of the words themselves inspires the design.
From a single, evocative line to a meaningful quote, your chosen text will be hand-drawn and meticulously carved onto a select piece of wood, transforming words into a tangible work of art.
Ideal for business establishments who would like to add a touch of class, alluding to their own vision of excellence and quality, a hand carved piece of lettering can mirror the ethos and values you have when it comes to celebrating and showcasing true craftsmanship and reputation of upholding the highest standards.
Perfect as a sculptural piece, distinctive signage, or a deeply personal gift, this heirloom-quality creation will resonate for generations.
Want to carve some of your own lettering?
I have been very fortunate to have spent time learning from renowned lettering artist and carver Martin Wenham (author of "The Art of Letter Carving in Wood")
I am passionate about sharing these skills that I have gained and subscribers to the mailing list will receive updates and information on upcoming workshops and learning opportunities.
All tools are supplied, and lessons can be tailored to each student's needs, from drawing letters and sharpening carving tools to designing your own unique lettering projects.
I can offer introductory group sessions to explore the basics, as well as personalised 1-to-1 tuition. Gift vouchers are available, and booking is easy online.
Community groups and craft venues interested in hosting a workshop at their location are welcome to send a request – I am always keen to discuss options.
