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Hello, this is Ohara. Today, I would like to talk about the charm and production process of the wooden plates that I craft by hand.
Each product made by Hayama Studio is infused with my thoughts and effort. These wooden plates are not mass-produced nor created by machines in an instant. They are carefully carved from natural wood, making each plate unique in its grain and shape, a truly one-of-a-kind piece.
Today, I will introduce several wooden plates that I am now selling and share the details of how they are made and the care I put into them.
The Reason I Started Making Wooden Plates
I began making wooden plates when I needed a small, thoughtful gift for people who have supported me during furniture exhibitions. While I was primarily focused on furniture, I thought creating plates and vessels by hand would help deepen my connection with customers.
The Difference Between Wooden Plates and Furniture
The major difference between wooden plates and furniture lies in the method of production. Furniture is made by creating parts and assembling them, while plates and vessels are carved from a solid block of wood. Furniture often uses a large amount of wood, resulting in a lot of scrap material. However, with plates, I use the leftover boards and select only the most beautiful sections to work with.
Wooden plates and furniture are completely different, aren’t they?
Yes, I originally thought I lacked the skill for making detailed items, but making plates suits me well. It’s a joy to see them take shape as I carve the wood.
Production Process and Commitment to Wooden Plates
To create these plates, I use leftover wood from furniture-making projects. The wood I use has been naturally dried for over 20 years, so there is little twisting or cracking, allowing for a stable starting point. For larger pieces like the “Sail Plate,” I remove the core of the log using a chainsaw, followed by rough carving. After years of drying, I carefully shape and refine the plates by hand, giving them a unique character.
Here’s the Sail Plate article I introduced earlier. Feel free to read it if you’d like.
The Charm and Texture of Wooden Plates
The beauty of wooden plates lies in their immediate warmth. Unlike machine-made items, handmade pieces have a distinct warmth to them. The surface of the wood can be rough in some places and smooth in others, giving it a very pleasant texture. The inherent warmth and quality of the wood enhance any meal.
Each plate I make is a handmade piece, so the wood grain and shape are unique, making each one truly special. I believe using these plates will make any meal feel extra special.
I am a huge fan of your wooden plates, Mr. Ohara!
Thank you! I’m glad you like them.
Enjoying the Process
The most enjoyable part of making these plates is the time spent carving them. I start with a rough sketch, and the shape gradually comes to life with each stroke of the tool. I focus on the moment, without thinking about the future shape, which makes this process very fulfilling and enjoyable.
Customer Feedback
When I see how customers’ wooden plates have been beautifully used over time, I feel so happy. Especially with the plates finished with wipe lacquer, seeing them gain a smooth, rich sheen as they are used brings me great joy. This is proof of my craftsmanship and proof that the warmth of the wood is being passed on.
Unfortunately, It’s Not a Profitable Business…
Other woodworkers or colleagues often ask me how I make these plates and if they could turn it into a business. I explain, but most of them say they wouldn’t do it because it’s not profitable.
They think I’m mass-producing them with machines, but that’s far from the case.
Making these plates takes time, which is why they are priced higher than typical wooden plates. Additionally, because I use natural wood, sometimes I encounter knots or pinholes as I carve into the wood.
What I want is for people who love the unique shapes and the story behind the natural wood to appreciate these plates. It’s not about mass production, but rather about craftsmanship and character.
Summary: Bring Unique Wooden Plates to Your Dining Table
The wooden plates I make are one-of-a-kind pieces that stand apart from mass-produced items. I encourage you to incorporate them into your everyday life and feel their warmth and unique texture in your meals.
I believe using these wooden plates will make your dining table richer and warmer. I will continue to create handcrafted plates that showcase the individuality of the wood, so please check them out.
Bring Warmth to Your Dining Table with Hayama Studio’s Wooden Plates
We will soon be selling a range of wooden plates, including the Sail Plate. Get your hands on Hayama Studio’s wooden plates and experience the warmth and uniqueness of each piece.
Read our blog or check us out on Instagram to learn more and discover our products. I look forward to bringing warmth to your dining table.
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