Chris Gives Gifts: Kitchen Tools for the Art of Cooking
Hello from the shop, where so many gifts are dreamed, glued up and sanded to perfection!
I love every part of gift giving — from brainstorming, to hunting for perfect elements, to the satisfying big reveal and every step in-between. So when my dear friend Giselle celebrated a big birthday recently, I needed a banger of an idea, but what could match the occasion? I knew what I wanted it to be: food centered, colorful, and unique, just like her. In the end, I created a bespoke gift unlike anything I’ve made before.
Watch the process - from design to delivery - and read along to see how these tools might be used!
If you’re feeling inspired (or totally stumped) about a gift you want to give, book some time with me at the woodshop and let’s dream up something totally weird and delightful together.
Spatula Scrapers
I love these things. The spatula scraper is such a kitchen staple, I couldn’t make just one. These three are made out of padauk, olive, and walnut.
Spoon
Made out of maple, this spoon is long, shallow and sturdy. Whether you’re reaching for the salt cellar or sampling a soup, this utensil stretches the classic tasting spoon design. Good thing it’s just within reach!
Disk
A perfectly round disk made out of purpleheart that fits into the palm of your hand. (That is the actual natural color of this wood!!!). This is the first piece in the list without a traditional use. It’s super fun to play with. Gavin’s going to smash a potato. What would you do with it?
Star
This 12 point star lights up the display with one of the most eye-catching shapes. Made out of canary wood, the sky is the limit for what this could do in a kitchen! This one took a really really long time to sand.
Arc
Finally, possibly our oddest creation in the display. Could be for pressing hand pies? Or is it for scoping inside a jar? Your imagination is the only limit for this piece made out of black limba.
The part that brought everything together and I think put it over the top, was the display board that magnetically holds all the pieces framed on the wall. It's as fun to look at as it was to make.
I'm sure Giselle will find joy in using them for some magic in the kitchen.
Level Up Your Gift — Book Shop Time.
Want to make a personalized gift like this but have no idea where to start? When you book shop time at Wood Thumb, our lead instructor provides one-on-one design and fabrication guidance so you’re confident in making your own unique creation.
