Epping Forest Oak

Receiving the beautiful oak from Epping Forest this week brought immense excitement to the workshop. The grain pattern on this oak, a direct result of the conservation work at Epping Forest, was simply stunning.

Last year, Epping Forest, represented by John, the Senior Ranger, approached our workshop. They wanted to discuss the creation of a Keepsake Box for Alice, a dedicated volunteer ranger, in recognition of her years of service to the conservation of Epping Forest. This box was to be crafted from oak sourced from the Forest, a byproduct of their ongoing conservation efforts.

Our discussions delved into the details of the commission, and John provided me with more insights into the conservation work conducted by his team. This fueled my curiosity, prompting a visit to the Forest with professional course trainees. John graciously guided us through the Forest, explaining the reinstated habitats that had brought back a myriad of birdlife, insects, and other flora and fauna, some absent for decades. It was a revelation – a serene oasis hidden next to busy city life, a sanctuary crucial for our well-being, especially in challenging times.

The arrival of Epping Forest Oak at the Artisan Woodworks Workshop marked an exhilarating day. Conservation efforts, including the felling of a small number of trees, provided an opportunity for bartering. A proposal was presented, resulting in an arrangement that included a couple of Epping Forest oak butts. A year and a half, one baby, and a pandemic later, John informed me that the sawyer was coming to mill some oak.

This event brought me immense joy – delivering completed projects to clients, especially witnessing their reactions, and a timber delivery are two things I thoroughly enjoy. John’s arrival at the workshop with the milled oak, accompanied by Alice, who received the commissioned box the previous year, was a delightful reunion. Meeting her in person and hearing her feedback on the keepsake box added a personal touch to the day.

If you’re intrigued by the conservation work, you can learn more about what the rangers at Epping Forest do here. The oak, milled into 50mm / 2-inch through and through slabs, will now go into the stick to initiate the seasoning process. The lingering question is: What piece of furniture will truly do justice to this oak? Chairs seem like a fitting choice, but any thoughts are welcome as we embark on this exciting decision-making process.