About this Product
These wooden spoons are meant to last - they are sturdy and durable while still feeling light and delicate in your hand. I carve them to have a gentle curve in the handle and a well porportioned bowl, while keeping them thin enough for scraping and sauteeing. Whether you'r using them for cooking, eating or coffee stirring, these spoons are tools that are meant to be the workhorse in your kitchen.
I offer three sizes:
7" spoon - meant for tasting and eating
10" spoon - ideal for sauteeing in small-medium pans
13" spoon - great for a range of cooking and baking
Message me if you would like a specific length!
Flotsam is a one-person operation. I cut each small batch of kitchenware individually from carefully selected scrap wood, which I collect locally. Because I make everything by hand in small batches, each item will be unique and slightly different, and there will be some natural variation of hue and grain patterns in the wood.
Flotsam
Meet the Maker
Flotsam was born from a desire to create something from furniture found on the streets of Boston, destined for the landfill. The wood I use in all my projects is "sourced" from the sidewalk, construction/demolition leftovers, woodworking shop scraps, and friendly neighbors. Handling scrap wood brings a host of new problems to solve, which adds a fun, creative energy to the artistic process of woodworking. In the shop, I use a mix of traditional and modern woodworking methods, taking pride in hand-cut dovetails while still appreciating the utility of modern tools. Most of what I know about woodworkig comes from my father in Virginia, who continues to teach me the value of hand tools, precision and and a well-sharpened blade. I work out of a shared shop in Boston, MA.
How it’s Made
SOURCING & PRODUCTION PROCESS
I take pride in producing beautiful, well crafted items from salvaged wood. Much of my wood comes from other woodworking shops - scraps from large projects that would otherwise be discarded. I also use construction and demolition scraps, broken furniture and anything else made of good, solid hardwood that needs a second chance at life. After I source the wood, I must deconstruct it and/or bring each piece down to a manageable size, then I cut and shape each piece individually. The production process is a dance between the planer, table saw, bandsaw and an array of different sanding tools.
THE FINISHING PROCESS
My final step on all utensils is a multi-day process of sanding, raising the grain, and applying food-safe oils and waxes for a smooth and long-lasting finish. I start with tung oil and citrus, which creates a durable, all-natural and food-safe coating, then I let it dry for at least a week. Before delivery, I finely sand the hardened finish and add a coat of beeswax and mineral oil for an extra layer of protection and a lovely smooth sheen.
Notes on Tung oil: Although Tung oil is pressed from the seed of the Tung tree, it is not known to be associated with common nut allergies. Unlike most other natural oils, it becomes a hard film and will not go rancid over time. However, it takes weeks to completely harden, depending on the temperature and humidity. Because of this, you may notice a lingering musty smell when you first take it out of the package. Don't worry, after a gentle wash and a few uses the smell should totally go away. If you prefer to skip the Tung Oil and opt for a simple beeswax and mineral oil finish, please message me and ask (this is a less durable option, but more commonly used because it is less expensive and generally simpler).
Shop Policies
I accept returns and exchanges within 30 days of purchase. Please let me know if you have any issues with my products!
